ROCKINGHAM — After a several-year absence, Relay for Life is coming back to Richmond County.
The R.C. Cancer Care Treasure Shop announced on Facebook Friday morning that the annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society would be returning in 2026.
“We have been working hard and finally got the approval to bring Relay For Life back to Richmond Senior High School,” Heather Guinn, store manager, said in a Facebook post.
Guinn told the RO that the approval was granted by the superintendent of Richmond County Schools just a few days earlier to hold the event on the school's track.
The origins of Relay for Life date back 40 years when colorectal surgeon Dr. Gordy Klatt secured sponsorships for a 24-hour run/walk around track at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. His effort reportedly raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society
The event was organized locally for 18 years, with the most recent one being in the parking lot of Cole Auditorium in 2019. However, it fizzled during the COVID pandemic.
The Treasure Shop opened in 2018 to support Relay for Life. Owner Rodney Gandy previously told the RO on Friday that the store has raised more than $350,000 since the pandemic:
The store has also held its own “Walk for a Cure” each October for the past four years, raising $981 in 2024.
“Relay for Life has always been such a huge event in Richmond County, and it's been several years since it has been active in the community,” Guinn said. “It's going to be such an honor for us to get this event up and going once again!”
Guinn added that there is no date yet set, as they are working with the school on scheduling. However, the plan is to hold the event in May of 2026.
Anyone interested in volunteering or being a vendor is encouraged to call the store at 910-817-9342. The Treasure Shop will announce the date for an upcoming meeting for volunteers and vendors on its Facebook page.
“Our plans for Relay For Life are to make this an outstanding and huge event like no other,” Guinn said. "Let's rock this event!"
