What is RFL?

What is Relay for Life?

Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society's signature fundraising activity. in 2009, over 3.5 million participants raised an estimated $400 million USD. Events took place in 5000 communities in the US and nearly 1000 RFL events occurred in 20 countries all over the world.

In communities across the US and now the world, groups of people form teams to work together to raise money for ACS in their local area via events, sales, and sponsorship of those participating in Relay. These teams choose a community location such as a park or track that they can walk around during their event. "Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length." Each team is requested to have at least one person walking at all times during the event.

In the online community of Second Life, there is an ever growing movement to assist in this incredible endeavor. Incorporating the traditional elements of all Relays, they help not only raise money, but celebrate, remember, and fight back.


Fundraising in a virtual environment?

Absolutely! In Second Life, just like in 1st life, groups of people form teams to plan, create, and participate in fundraising events across the virtual grid. In SL, a unique experience is available to the worldwide community, opening up new avenues of participation in an amazing variety of virtual settings.

Starting in 2004 in Second Life with only 99 avatars participating in a Virtual Gala and Silent Auction, the event organisers raised $2000 USD. In 2009, over $275,000 USD was raised by 1913 avatars participating in the relay walk which crossed 36 sims. Walking a total of 2155 laps, the residents of SL covered an amazing 25,650,536 meters!

Since Second Life is a vibrant, creative worldwide community, the options are endless. With each sim being sponsored by one or more groups, Relayers are treated to a view of the wonders of SL as they walk. Cheered on by supporters on the sidelines, reminded of who they're walking for by the lumineria lined track, and encouraged by the coming together of so many people touched in some way by this illness, participants give countless hours of their time, open their hearts and minds, and yes wallets to support the American Cancer Society.


How can I help?

Get involved! No matter what part of the SL grid you are from, there's a RFL team for you. The RFL season in Second Life runs from March through July culminating with the Relay walk weekend, July 17-18, 2010. Teams across the grid will be organizing events, selling products from specially marked vendors, and placing donation kiosks in public locations. Choose an area that interests you, find a team, and enjoy paricipating in fun events while raising money for a good cause.

Not everyone has a large amount of time to be active in events, and simply donating L$ can help of course. If you're a creator of a product, you can set an item for sale using an RFL vendor so proceeds from the sale go directly to the RFL totals. If you have sim space free, donate the use to a team for an event. There's always something, no matter how small, everyone can do to participate.