Frequently asked questions

What is Relay For Life?

The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life brings together communities, united by the same goal of creating a world where no Canadian fears cancer. These events are also an opportunity to celebrate those who live and have lived in the face of cancer and those moving past cancer.

Relay is a global movement to end cancer which is active in 29 countries and 6,000 communities worldwide, whereby participants commit to raising funds for work against all types of cancer.

Why should I participate?

At the Canadian Cancer Society, we know that cancer changes people and that 1 in 2 will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. But a cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to define a person. Our goal is to improve the cancer experience by helping people live longer and enhancing their quality of life. We believe that life is bigger than cancer.

Many of us have been directly affected by cancer and share a strong bond with others who experience the pain of this disease.

Relay For Life brings together communities, united by the same goal of creating a world where no Canadian fears cancer. These events are also an opportunity to celebrate those who live and have lived in the face of cancer and those moving past cancer.

Where does the money donated or raised go to?

Funds raised through our Relay For Life events are changing lives for the better by supporting ground-breaking research into more than 100 types of cancer, programs and services that help people with cancer and their families, and advocacy to governments on important cancer-related issues.

What are the different participation types?

There are 3 ways you can register to participate in Relay For Life:

1. Start a team and become a team captain. Team captains are an important part of Relay success. Build your own team and work together to reach your goals. A team of 10 members can have 10 times the impact!


2. Join a team that already exists. From fundraising to event day, share your Relay experience with a team, working together to meet your goals and celebrate success!


3. Participate as an individual. Register, set your goal, fundraise and make a difference at Relay! If you want, you'll be able to join or create a team later.

How do I register for a Relay For Life event?

We can't wait to welcome you at Relay! To register:

1. Search for your event location.
2. Choose your participation type.
3. Create an account or sign in with the one you already have.
4. Follow the rest of the registration prompts.

If you're starting a new team, you'll have to create a team name that isn't already taken. If you're joining an existing team, you'll need to know the name of the team you want to join.

Do I get a tax receipt for my donation?

Yes, charitable tax receipts will be issued for any donations made through relayforlife.ca.

For offline donations charitable receipts for donations of $20 or more will be issued. If you would like a receipt for a donation of less than $20, please contact our Donor Care team.