Get ready to relay.

Escalon will host its annual Relay For Life in June and will gather for the official ‘kick off’ ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 9 at the First Baptist Church, 1511 Catherine Way.

The session will include information about the event, how to get involved as a team captain, committee member or how to join a team and get involved in fundraising for the fight against cancer.

Relay For Life is a 24-hour team event, with campsites set up around a track and someone from each team on the track at all times throughout the 24-hour period. Teams raise money for the American Cancer Society and its programs and services through onsite fundraising ranging from food to opportunity drawings to handmade goods and more. Escalon High School has served as host site for the local relay since its inception a few years ago.

The 24 hours also includes a survivor lap, special ceremonies, entertainment and more as walkers raise money circling the track.

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 9.

“The committee has been working to set their yearly goals,” said Publicity Committee member Caryn Ball. “One primary one is to increase community attendance at the event.”

Ball said committee members want the community to know that the event is open to all; you don’t have to be on a team to come and participate. There are activities throughout the entire 24-hour period that the community would enjoy, officials said, and they want to make sure everyone knows they can attend.

This year’s event co-chairs are Teresa and Arianna Kennedy.