On June 18, 2011, 38 students and staff of the San Jose Job Corps participated in this important event by spending 24 hours at the Milpitas Sports Center ensuring at least one San Jose Job Corps representative was on the track at all times. 

Relay For Life is an international event sponsored by the American Cancer Society to raise awareness, dollars and support for loved ones who are facing the the difficulties of cancer diagnosis, cancer treatment, prevention and screening or individuals who have survived a cancer diagnosis.  

The following quotes truly tell the story of Relay for Life and why the San Jose Job Corps Center is committed to “Relay” every year.

“San Jose Job Corps: Thank you for the vital services you offer to young citizens especially in these hard economic times. I do appreciate your participation in Milpitas’s Relay For Life.  This is an indication of your care, concern and love for others, love for life and respect for each individual. Congratulations and you are duly commended for the assistance and help you have provided to young people.”  Jose Estevez – Mayor of Milpitas

“Live everyday like it is your last!” Sandeep S.

“We relay in honor of my Dad Chris Martinez. He battled cancer for 13 years and just lost the fight this past August 18, 2010. My aunt has just started her fight with breast cancer and was just informed she also has brain cancer. It means a lot to us to help find a cure so we do not lose anymore family members. In all our team has lost 5 family members to this terrible disease.”  Donna L.

 “My uncle passed away from brain cancer. I do this in great memory of my uncle Pete.  We must beat cancer.”  Ashley G.  “I’m walking for all the loved ones lost. My uncle Pete passed away from Brian Cancer.  We love you and miss you!” Heather G.

“This is my first year at the Relay. I’m walking to honor my Dad, who survived cancer. He is here today and walked the survivor lap.  He is 79 and I was teary eyed as he walked slowly. I will walk every year because I want to walk until a cure is found.”  Sue V.

“I have worked (volunteered) for Relay for Life for four years. During that time several friends and family members have been diagnosed with cancer. A family member has passed away as has a friend. Other friends are “survivors”. This is an important cause which is why I volunteer my time to help.” Sharon F.

Before one month ago, I knew nothing about Relay For Life. I saw the event on a website and chose to participate because one person can make a difference in someone’s life. Even though I don’t know anyone who has or had cancer, I can still help by fiving to the American Cancer Society and it gives me fulfillment in know that I am helping fund research for cures to cancer. I hope that this organizations will continue to grow and reach out to cancer patients.  Joanna R.

“I’m Face Painting at RFL because cancer makes me feel helpless. I lost my aunt Marcia, 35 years only  three months ago and we lost Mima age 65 to colon cancer. Being here, helping others is so much better than feeling bitter, at least we are trying to make a difference.  Jenn C.