Our History:
In 1995, SkyLine employees rolled up their sleeves and came up with some creative ways to raise money for a good cause—the fight against cancer. Coordinated through the local chapter of the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life is the signature event for the organization to raise money and awareness for cancer research and education. The event began as a 12-hour relay in which a team member must remain in the relay the entire time, so employees teamed together and "walked" their part at Ashe Central High School in Jefferson. At this time, 18 employees formed the SkyLine PoleClimbers-Connecting for a Cure team, and all employees pitched in with the fund-raising efforts, ranging from weekly bake sales to a Saturday Chicken Barbecue.

In 1996, the tradition continued, with staff from the Sugar Grove and Banner Elk offices forming their own team for the Watauga County division of the event, appropriately named the SkyLine Skywalkers. In 1997, the Sparta office, along with Blue Ridge Electric, formed the Co-op Crusaders, to participate in the Alleghany-based event. In 2002, the Ashe team added a prime rib dinner and cash drawdown in favor of the chicken barbecue to boost donations. The Ashe Relay for Life event has now evolved into a 24-hour walking marathon held at the Ashe County High School each year.

From 18 members in 1995 to 41 teammates in 2010, employees join the fight against cancer and come one step closer in finding a cure for this dreaded disease, which strikes down thousands of people a year. Whether it's our Prime Rib Dinner, cash donations or the sale of luminaries for the night of the event, our employees give generously and work hard to support this important effort. The Relay is a fun event, but more importantly, it brings us together to continue in the fight against cancer.

1995-2010 Systemwide Totals from SkyLine Teams donated to the American Cancer Society:

Alleghany County:
$9,426.17

Ashe County:
$101,765.71

Avery/Watauga County:
$15,820

Grand Total:
$127,011.88