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But recently, the Hilton Head Relay for Life organization came up with an idea that could liven up those months of planning. It came in the form of a happy hour.
The Hilton Head Island chapter of the American Cancer Society has been staging Relay Rocks once every month since October. There, guests gather for drinks and appetizers for a flat fee. The money raised goes to the Hilton Head Relay for Life, held May 4 at the Island Rec Center.
Co-chairwomen Karen Wilson and Susan Hughson were brainstorming fundraising ideas with cancer society community manager Mary Gwen Boyett and longtime society organizer Nancy Wellard when they formulated the happy hour concept. By offering up drinks and apps, the idea could potentially bring in more than just the core Relay participants, they thought.
So far, Relay Rocks has been a success, holding happy hours at Outback Steakhouse, Mangiamo's and The Lodge. The inaugural event raised $800. Anywhere between 30 and 40 people have attended. The next will be at Mangiamo's Jan. 19.
"We've had lots of success and the support of the businesses have been amazing," Hughson said.
The Hilton Head Relay for Life will move this year to the rec center from its longtime spot at Honey Horn. The all-night event will feature food for sale, bands and bounce houses for kids. Local high school boys will don their best wigs and heels for the Miss Relay for Life contest. Luminaries will be available for purchase and will be lined along the track where participants can walk in honor of a loved one with cancer.
"It's just a fun evening for the community," Wilson said.
Three other relays will be held locally in the spring: Beaufort and Bluffton on April 27; and Hardeeville on April 20.
