Cancer Navigators’ main fundraiser of the year is under way and dozens of “crews” are busy raising money in fun and creative ways as part of the Cast Off Against Cancer 2012 event.

The Rome-based nonprofit helps cancer patients in the region who need the one-on-one services provided by Cancer Navigators, joining them on their journey from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

Teams from Harbin Clinic, Floyd Medical Center and Redmond Regional Medical Center, as well as numerous community teams, are selling everything from T-shirts to cupcakes and have all kinds of events planned. Most have picked their team names and themes and are busy decorating their boat paddles for the main event next month.

For example, Harbin’s Pirates of the Care Giving team is having a festival called the Treasure Trail on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Harbin Clinic Tony E. Warren M.D. Cancer Center. For $20 vendors can get two parking spaces to sell their wares. In addition, there will be face painting, hot dogs, a cakewalk and other fun events. For more information email tperry@harbinclinic.com.

Canter 4 Cancer, which is having a horseback trail ride and other events at the Western Saddle Club April 13-15, will kick off its team fundraising at the Treasure Trail event. Their T-shirt featuring a horse made of ribbons is a hot seller. For more information about that event call 706-506-2630.

“Right now there are hundreds of enthusiastic supporters out in our community trying to raise much-needed funds for Cancer Navigators,” said Charlotte Atkins, the group’s executive director. “Every single dollar raised stays right here in our community to help local cancer patients in the fight of their lives. So we ask residents and businesses alike to give locally to support this important work that truly touches so many lives.”

The benefit finale, slated for April 22 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the cancer center, will feature a walk to the Oosta­naula River for a memorial flower drop, with music provided by Broad and Third. Cancer Navigators is selling Cast Off Against Cancer event T-shirts for $10.

Donations may be mailed to Cancer Navigators, 3 Central Plaza, Suite 415, Rome, GA 30161. For more information contact Cancer Navigators by calling 706-295-4119 or emailing info@cancernavigatorsga.org.