Relay for Life Discussion

Chamber Chats with Toni Nelson, White Pass Community Services

Chamber: What is your start date with White Pass Community Services?

Toni: I started working with White Pass Community Services in 1997.

Chamber: What's your title with WPCS and what thrills you about your job?

Toni: I have more than one title. I am a Social Worker and Case Manager. What thrills me about my job is the fact that I am able to be of assistance with various types of protection orders, the ability to be sort of an information station and simply help people in need.

Chamber: Was the 1st Annual Relay for life in East Lewis County a success and if so, please explain.

Toni: Yes, I know the Relay for Life was a success. We had a goal to fund raise $20,000 and we have surpassed that and is over $34,000. It was a success because people showed up. It was not just about the money, the track remained full of people for two days. I think the success attributed to the fact that there was a common goal awareness.

Chamber: What would you do different, if anything, for next year's relay?

Toni: First I would start earlier. Secondly, get more people involved with the planning.

Chamber: How long have you been involved in RELAY?

Toni: I have been involved for 8 years.

Chamber: How did you get it to East Lewis County?

Toni: I was an Alternative School Teacher and it was brought to my attention that I should get involve. I did. I formulated a group of approximately 25 people finally. I Kept soliciting the American Cancer Society of a need for East Lewis County to have its own and they finally agreed based on the spirit within the people we had as a group. I would additionally like to say that many people were instrumental in the Relay's success but I have a need to highlight Beverly Rashoff of Key Bank, Morton, WA and Doug Hayden of White Pass Community Services, Morton, WA.

Chamber: Is there anything you prefer to say to East Lewis County in this moment?

Toni: THANK YOU..THANK YOU....THANK YOU....Thanks so much for your support.

Chamber: How can the Chamber assist White Pass Community Services for the next Relay for Life?

Toni: Help us with marketing and an online presence. We intend to join the Chamber.