American Cancer Society - Bark For Life of Central NJ

The American Cancer Society is asking all members of the community to “walk the dog” and make a difference in the fight against cancer here in New Jersey. Dogs are invited to bring their owners to the first annual "Bark for Life of Central NJ”. This four-hour event begins with a non-competitive group dog-walk to remember and honor those who’ve battled cancer – while celebrating our canine caregivers. Although the afternoon festival is a "dog-friendly" event, all members of the community (including those without dogs) are welcome to join the fun while raising funds to support the mission of the American Cancer Society.

Bark For Life of Central NJ is a “regional fundraiser” and is the American Cancer Society’s “companion event” to their better known Relay For Life walk-festival. Although ACS hosts many Relay For Life events throughout New Jersey, this is the only “Bark” taking place in the area. In addition to showing support to human patients who’ve been profoundly affected by cancer, Bark For Life also celebrates our four-legged companions and caregivers who give unconditional love during life's most challenging times.

The American Cancer Society - Bark For Life of Central NJ is scheduled for Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Mannino Park, 1 Mannino Park Drive, Old Bridge, New Jersey. The event is rain or shine: registration opens at 11 am, the walk begins at 12:00 pm, and festivities are scheduled throughout the afternoon until 4 pm.

The day will feature entertainment, games, and contests for dogs and humans alike. The initial “Bark Around the Park Lap” will be lead by Grand Marshall Dog “Tomgirl”, who is an experienced “community service dog”. Princeton Dog Training Club will present an "agility demonstration" featuring their most talented show dogs. Four Paw Fusion Yoga will be there to introduce dog-yoga to participants. D.J. Kevin and Vincent Pace, guitarist are providing music for the walkers. Sponsors and vendors will be set-up at the event, including Sammie’s Hope Animal Rescue, and many others. “Paw-Friendly” fun competitions include a Doggie Costume contest and “Bark’s Got Talent” contest. Participants and dogs are welcome to remain afterward to enjoy the remainder of the day at Mannino Park.

Pre-event registration is suggested but participants may register onsite the day of the event. Suggested donation is $10.00 per person + $10.00 per dog. The first 100 dogs to pre-register will receive a gift bag. Special Bark For Life t-shirts, dog-bandanas, and other unique pet items will be available for purchase at the park.

Contributions raised at Bark For Life forward the battle against ALL types of cancer by funding cancer research, patient services, advocacy, disease prevention, and education programs. The ultimate goal of the American Cancer Society is to eliminate cancer as a major health problem.

The Bark For Life Planning Committee welcomes new volunteers: day-of-event help, teams, individuals, walkers, vendors, and sponsors. For information on Bark For Life of Central NJ, contact Vicky Allen - American Cancer Society: 732-292-4264, email: Vicky.Allen@cancer.org . To register on-line, to donate, or for general information, please visit the web at www.RelayForLife.org/BarkCentralNJ .