Anything goes for fundraising ideas at the second annual Relay for Life, where hope is contagious and students celebrate the daily fight to cure cancer.

Last night about 50 people came to the Relay for Life kickoff session at Wartik Lab to learn more about Relay for Life, a 24-hour walk-a-thon to raise money for cancer research.

Public Relations Overall Jessica Deppen said Relay for Life is a great way to raise money for and awareness of cancer. "There are so many people at Penn State, and many of them have been, or will be, affected by cancer," Deppen said.

Last year, 100,000 college students participated in Relay for Life and more than $10 million was raised across the nation to benefit cancer research and the American Cancer Society.

This year's Relay for Life will take place from 11 a.m. April 8 to 11 a.m. April 9. Although the location of the relay hasn't been finalized, last year it took place on HUB Lawn.

Any person or organization can create his or her own team of 8 to 15 members who work in a group to raise money.

Keri Lucas-Collins (sophomore-elementary education) said she loves being part of the group effort needed for this event to be successful.

"It's really fun to see it all come together," Lucas-Collins said. "I really want to raise a lot of money this year."

Each team rotates shifts throughout the day, with someone always walking around the designated course.

Cancer survivors, their families and friends kick off the day's events by taking the honorary first lap.

Besa Ndreca (sophomore-economics) said she had a team last year and is excited to have another team this year.

"It's a good time to spend with friends and it's a lot of fun," Ndreca said. "What is Penn State without fundraising?"

Throughout the day, activities and entertainment are provided for the volunteers and participants, including live bands and free food.

Administration Assistant Overall Carol Phillips led a cheer with two Penn State cheerleaders to get the audience excited for Relay for Life.

"So many people are involved in Thon, and we hope other people will want to take part in Relay for Life because it benefits a similar cause," Phillips said.