Event planning takes time, talent and imagination

That's the philosophy of Tracy Feathers, director of marketing for the June E. Nylen Cancer Center, Hospice of Siouxland and Siouxland Paramedics.

"People think it's strictly a money thing," she said, "but we also need people who are willing to lend a hand and help us organize an event."

This is certainly the case with the Cancer Center's 18th annual "Race for Hope," an event held at McCook Lake, SD's Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve on Sept. 20.

"'Race for Hope' is one of the area's longest-running 5K/15K charity walk/runs," Feathers explained. "Every year, it takes more than 120 people at least six months to plan. It's a big undertaking."

Feathers said as many as 1,000 people will be taking part in the walk/run, often as a way to support a friend or family member whose life was altered with cancer.

"Cancer impacts practically everybody at some point," she said. "That's what makes (large-scale events) so important."

Drawing upon her previous experience in nursing, education and the business sector, Feathers said the key to successful event planning is good marketing.

In addition to "Race for Hope," the Cancer Center also hosts a "Cancer Sucks! Comedy Rocks!" fundraiser every March.

 "We're always looking for unique and fun ways to hold fundraisers," she said. "We plan early enough and try to market it as effectively as we can."

Also, individuals and groups have planned fundraisers where the proceeds will go towards cancer awareness and protection.

They include a "BBQing Hogs for Hope," -- a charity founded by West Middle School eighth-grader Tayvin Schmoll -- which is being held at Lewis & Clark Park on Oct. 4 and as well as a "Storm the Centre" event at Sioux City's Ho-Chunk Centre, held on Sept. 13.

"That's the nice things about the Cancer Center," Feathers observed. "We have people who are willing to step up to the plate and help us out."

Yet she acknowledged there are many other worthwhile organizations in the community.

"There are great causes out there who are helping people on a daily basis," Feathers said. "We don't look at other organizations as being the competition because we all do great work."

Indeed, she said there's enough money and manpower to go around.

Still, Feathers is constantly looking for ways to increase her organization's visability. She does this by organizing large fundraisers (like "Race for Hope") and smaller events that she calls "friend-raisers."

"A friend-raiser is simply an event that's designed to keep our name in the public or raise awareness for something very specific," she said, citing the Cancer Center's past "Boxers and Bras for a Cause" breast cancer awareness campaign.

Ever with the most creative fundraising gimmick, Feathers is quick to point out none would be effective without the help of volunteers.

"People have been willing to give the June E. Nylen Cancer Center their time, talent and treasure and I'm so appreciative of their support," she said. "They are as passionate about fighting cancer as we are."