News release
Relay for Life of Santa Clarita Valley was recently honored with several “Spirit of Relay” Awards for the Western Region (California, Arizona, Hawaii and Guam), the local nonprofit announced in a news release.
After previously receiving regional and national honors including the “Power of Hope” Award and being acknowledged as a “Premier Event” by raising over $300,000 and sustaining year over year growth, Relay for Life of SCV was honored to receive a 2025 “Trendsetter Award” for meeting and exceeding its $340,000 goal, the release said.
Relay for Life of Santa Clarita Valley ranked No. 17 nationwide for its fundraising and outreach to the community.
Additionally, Abby Smith received the “Staff Partner of the Year Award” for her leadership and inspiration as the professional liaison between the American Cancer Society and the volunteers who make up Relay for Life of SCV, the release said.
Smith’s relationship with Relay for Life began about 14 years ago as a volunteer, before she became ACS staff in 2019 in support of Relay for Life of SCV.
“The American Cancer Society Relay for Life movement is so incredibly special and personal to me. Becoming a part of Relay for Life is becoming part of a family rooted in support, empathy, and compassion. It has been the privilege of my life to walk the journey step-for-step with newly diagnosed cancer patients, celebrate 20-plus-year survivors, and every unique story in between,” Smith said in the release.
The Relay for Life of SCV’s fundraising goal for 2026 is $375,000. The family-friendly May 2 event at Central Park has for its theme this year: “Superheroes Unite! Join the Fight!”
They invite the community to embrace the “Spirit of Relay” and join the movement to fight for a world without cancer with prevention and cures that save lives and celebrate lives, the release said.
For more information, a calendar of events, donations, and volunteer opportunities for upcoming fundraisers, visit www.SCVRelay.org, or contact Smith at [email protected] or 661-855-4541.
