On May 1, the Relay For Life community rallied nationwide for Gordy’s Give Back Day, a 24-hour fundraising push honoring Dr. Gordy Klatt and 40 years of Relay For Life. With an ambitious goal of $400,000 (and a stretch goal of $540,000), volunteers didn’t just rise to the challenge – they exceeded it, raising an incredible $651,670 in just one day.
“This day reminded us that cancer cannot cripple love, it cannot shatter hope, and it cannot conquer the spirit,” said Becky VanLoon, national volunteer lead, Relay For Life. “Our community showed the same passion, grit, and heart that lit the first track 40 years ago. That spark is still burning bright.”
Leading the Way: East Valley, AZ
The Relay For Life of East Valley, AZ topped the charts with a staggering $140,140 raised—the most of any participating event. Event Lead Laura Deppert credited longtime donors and a deep commitment to the cause. “Their passion for finding a cure continues to inspire all of us,” she shared.
One major driver of East Valley’s success was a $40,000 donation secured by leadership volunteer Gina Romero. “It felt like the perfect moment to reignite our fundraising,” said Gina. “Doing it in honor of Gordy’s legacy made it especially meaningful.” Their efforts will help fund an American Cancer Society Hero of Research grant for Dr. Nicole Jimenez, an Arizona-based gynecologic cancer researcher.
Top 10 Events Based on Funds Raised
More than 460 Relay For Life events participated across the country. Here are the top 10:
- East Valley, AZ – $140,140
- Sumner Portland, TN – $26,871
- Eugene-Springfield, OR – $23,975
- Blair, PA – $23,129
- Bakersfield, CA – $21,267
- Farmington Valley, CT – $15,566
- East Central CT – $15,441
- Bell County, TX – $12,633
- Santa Clarita Valley, CA – $10,107
- Peninsula, VA – $8,055
Celebrating Momentum, Honoring a Legacy
Gordy’s Give Back Day wasn’t just a fundraising milestone—it was a powerful demonstration of what makes Relay For Life so unique. It united hundreds of communities behind a common purpose, reminded us of the heart that fuels our mission, and proved that together, we are unstoppable.
For more information or to find an event near you, visit RelayForLife.org.
