Cancer Navigators is gearing up for its 2011 Benefit slated for April 10.

This year’s event is looking to local “crews” to help navigate them to success with decorated oars and a big dose of community spirit.

“We’re trying to establish crews of between eight to 15 people. Each crew would be responsible for raising a minimum of $1,000,” said Phillip Edge, executive director of Cancer Navigators.

The nonprofit organization helps those affected by the disease navigate their way through cancer care and the human experience.

To be part of the fundraiser, crews must pay a $100 signup fee and pledge to raise $1,000 by the April 10 benefit.

The first crew captain meeting is today at 5 p.m. at the Cancer Navigators office at 1013 N. Fifth Ave., Suite 7, in Rome. But teams can continue to register up until the April event.

So far more than a dozen teams have signed up, and organizers are hoping more will register at today’s meeting. Would-be captains are invited to come sign up today.

Each crew will be given an oar to decorate. The oars are a symbol of the journey traveled by cancer patients. The theme for the oar-decorating contest is “Working Together, Supporting Our Community.” Crews are encouraged to paint them, write on them or wrap them — whatever creative way you can conjure up to represent your team and the message.

The Cancer Navigators benefit has been scheduled to coincide with the open house for the new Harbin Clinic Tony E. Warren Cancer Center.

While there is no actual boating involved, there will be several activities for participating crews during the afternoon of April 10, starting at 3:30 p.m. at the new cancer center.

Those activities include a silent walk to the Rome City Auditorium, a cancer education fair, oar contest judging and a comedy showcase by author, comedian and cancer survivor Scott Burton.

For more information, call the Cancer Navigators office at 706-295-4119. All donations are tax-deductible.