They call themselves "Misfits." But that is not a complete representation of who they are and what they are all about.

They could also call themselves "Supporters," "Heroes" or "Sympathizers."

"We are a group of people who have been impacted by cancer in some way, either as caregivers, survivors, or we have friends who have gone through the fight," said Sharon Groff, the Misfits on a Mission team captain. "When we started, most teams were affiliated with a school group, church group, a business or family members. We were a group of people who wanted to do something to give back in honor or in memory of loved ones. Thus, we were a bunch of misfits who had no affiliation, but were on a mission in the fight against cancer."

Misfits on a Mission is an independent, six-member Relay for Life team that will be out in full force at Conestoga Valley High School (CVHS), 2110 Horseshoe Road, Lancaster, on Friday, June 12, from 3 to 11 p.m., when the American Cancer Society stages its popular local fight against cancer. The volunteer-led, fundraising and awareness-raising Relay for Life brings people together from all over Lancaster County who have been directly or indirectly affected by cancer.

Lancaster County's annual Relay for Life will feature local teams and individuals running or walking around CVHS' track in support of loved ones who have battled cancer and will include music, kids' activities, food trucks, baked goods, crafters and auctions.

"The vibe at Relay is upbeat and fun. It's a family event," said Groff. "Everyone is welcome to attend; you do not have to be part of a team to come out and enjoy the activities. As evening sets in, the atmosphere does change with the luminaria service. Lanterns and luminarias are lit around the track in remembrance or in honor of someone who has (battled) or is battling cancer."

Misfits on a Mission is currently seeking community members, interested individuals or altruistic businesses to support its efforts at Relay for Life. The team is offering varying levels of sponsorship opportunities, donations which will be recognized with banners displayed at the event.

To become a Misfits on a Mission sponsor, contact Groff at 717-354-2656 or sgroff56@gmail.com.

Traditionally, Misfits on a Mission has been one of Relay for Life of Lancaster County's top fundraising teams. Currently, the team has raised $36,000 toward this year's goal of $40,000.

"Dollars raised by Relay for Life of Lancaster County stay here in Lancaster County," said Groff, a resident of East Earl. "The funds raised are used to fund groundbreaking cancer research, to provide free patient services like rides to treatment and lodging, to support cancer prevention initiatives, to advocate for all and to improve survival rates and patient lives."

Other members of Misfits on a Mission include Katelyn Martin of Ephrata, Katie Ruth of Ephrata, Vanessa Binkley of Ephrata, Sherri Means of New Holland and Helen McGinnis of Paradise.

For additional information, search for "Misfits on a Mission" on Facebook.