Awards & Recognition

2012 Award It is with pleasure and appreciation and part of a long-standing tradition that we recognize the efforts and accomplishments of individuals and communities who help fuel the mission of the American Cancer Society through Relay For Life. Recognition is not just “a good thing to do”, it is a critical component in how we acknowledge, value, and thank our volunteers for their time and commitment to making a difference - - helping to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. While no award can adequately recognize all that Relay volunteers achieve in their efforts to eliminate cancer, the Society offers the Relay For Life Nationwide Awards and Recognition Program as a tribute to some of the nation’s most outstanding participants.

Click here to download full list

All American Relay Award

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Awarded to communities that show growth, retention, Relay branding, diversity, and leadership in incorporating the 5Ds within Relay events and throughout the year.

Nationwide Online Communications Award

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Awarded to the top three events recognized by the nationwide Relay Marketing and Communications Leadership Committee as demonstrating the best use of the e-revenue/communications tool and/or RelayForLife.org for online communication.

Heart of Relay Award

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Awarded to community, collegiate and youth events that
demonstrate successful practices and innovations in supporting the Society’s mission and 2015 goals in the areas of mission delivery, advocacy, survivor/caregiver engagement, and youth involvement.

International Heart of Relay Award : One World –One Hope (application required)

Awarded to International Communities that demonstrate
successful practices in supporting and impacting the global fight against cancer in the areas of mission delivery, advocacy, survivor/caregiver engagement, and youth involvement.

Nationwide Division Choice Award (application required)

Awarded to one event in each division that had an outstanding or extraordinary year, has overcome unforeseen circumstances, continues to grow but does not qualify for an award, has longevity but hasn’t won an award, or has special circumstances warranting recognition. The winners of this award are at the selection and discretion of the Division.

Terry Zahn Award

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Awarded to the top three events demonstrating excellence in a Relay event or team publicity.

Non-Application Awards

These awards are based on the national reporting database. All events that qualify are recognized and presented with awards, based on achievements.

Submitting Your Application

After downloading and completing your application, work with your local staff partner to email the application to the appropriate representative in your Division. Each Division will nominate finalists to be considered for the National awards.