The American Cancer Society will hold its Gresham Relay for Life fundraiser this weekend at Centennial High School. The event will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28, and continue to 10 a.m. Sunday, July 29.

So far more than 400 participants are registered for the event. Tabby Smith, chairwoman of the Gresham Relay for Life, said last year’s event brought in about $26,000. This year the goal is $44,000. Organizers are almost halfway there — so far they’ve raised $21,000.

At the relay, each team will set up “camp” on the field. Each camp will have a booth, selling everything from snow cones to homemade crafts in an effort to raise funds on-site. Relay registration is $10. People may sign up for the event now until the event begins Saturday.

Relay for Life brings people together to raise money for the American Cancer Society, which seeks to eliminate cancer. The 24-hour event includes music, food, a cake walk and entertainment. The Gresham Library will put on two readings throughout the day to entertain children.

During all of this, teams will stroll around Centennial’s track. The rules are simple: One team member must be on the track at all times. Participants who want to walk in groups and chat are encouraged to do so. Water will be provided for participants, Smith said.

Two highlights of the relay will be the Survivor’s Walk and the Luminaria Ceremony. Smith said survivors kick off the first lap of the relay to “motivate and share hope,” emphasizing, “You’re a survivor from the moment you hear, ‘You have cancer.’”

The Luminaria Ceremony will honor everyone who has been touched by cancer. At 10 p.m., the words “Hope” and “Cure” will illuminate the stands. They will be spelled out using candles inside paper bags.

According to the American Cancer Society, Oregon was expected to have 21,180 new cases of cancer in 2011.

To donate to the cause, stop by the event or send a check to Portland American Cancer Society office, 0330 S.W. Curry St., Portland, 97239. Write “Attn: Relay for Life of Gresham” and add the names of any team members or individuals you would like to support.