For the 20th year, Carbondale community members will camp out, walk and play games to raise money for the fight against cancer.

Relay for Life of Jackson County Carbondale is from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. April 26 and 27 at Carbondale Community High School. The gathering is an overnight fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and this year’s goal is to raise $68,000.

The next informational meeting is Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. in the Sangamon Room of the Student Center.

Gina Stack, of the event planning committee, said 20 teams signed up, but the goal is to get at least 40 involved. There are no limits on the number of members per team.

The committee is full for the first time ever, and consists of 26 people, but the organization is always looking for volunteers.

Stack said teams fundraise before and during the event, selling assorted items such as bracelets and baked goods.

The night begins with an opening ceremony, followed by 12 hours of sports competitions, movies and a band. The night is capped off with a paper lantern ceremony in honor of those affected by cancer.

Alexandria Saieg, an American Cancer Society staff partner from Woodridge and a 2013 alumna, said the committee considered holding a toga race and using a fake torch during the opening lap to incorporate an Olympic theme.

Reid Buerer, a junior studying healthcare management from McHenry, said she hopes people in attendance donate $10 to the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Club.

For more information about the Relay for Life, visit relayforlife.org/carbondaleil.