Photo from the Warren County Relay for Life Facebook page Plans are underway for the 2021 version of the Warren County Relay for Life. The annual event is set for June 19 at Betts Park.

It’s no secret 2020 presented impossible challenges for non-profit organizations, especially those that rely on community events for support.

Warren County’s Relay for Life is planning a rebound in 2021.

“Warren County Relay for Life is at a crossroads this year due to the worldwide pandemic which caused changes within the American Cancer Society organization,” Wendy Carter with the local organization said.

The most significant change? 2021 marks the first time local organizers won’t have the assistance of a partner from the American Cancer Society, Carter explained.

“This is a challenge however that Warren County Relayers and the Relay Committee are ready to meet,” she said.

This year’s relay is set for Betts Park on June 19 It will run from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

This is one of over 5,000 Relays worldwide “all working toward the same goals,” Carter said, to “raise funds to improve cancer survival, decrease the incidence of cancer and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families. This year we will be including more to help with childhood cancer….”

At its core, the Relay is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society but the event is much more than that.

Carter said organizers are planning a “family-friendly” event with “lots to do including games, raffles and the participation of local food trucks.

She said the theme for 2021 is country wester — “Give Cancer The Boot.”

“Relay for Life needs Warren County more than ever,” she said. “We are encouraging anyone who wants to continue to fund the fight for a cure and give hope to cancer patients and their families to join us.”

There’s no cost to start a team and there’s no required team size. Signups are at secure.ascevents.org and monthly meetings for participants — virtual for now — are available.

Anyone with questions is asked to connect with the Relay for Life of Warren County Pa Facebook page.