The Athens Area Cancer Auxiliary celebrated its annual meeting with dinner and awards ceremony Thursday at the Athens Country Club.

The charity group raised $30,000 between 2007-2008, which they delivered to seven organizations that work on behalf of area cancer patients and their families.

Organizations receiving grants from the auxiliary included Athens Regional Foundation; St. Mary’s Foundation; Clute Barrow Nelson Foundation for Life; Camp Sunshine; American Cancer Society – Clarke and Oconee Relay for Life; Northeast Georgia Cancer Care Foundation; and Mercy Health Center. Additionally, the auxiliary sponsored a team of 11 walkers for its In Their Shoes Walk, raising $9,000 for the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support.

The outgoing 2008-2009 board members, led by President Kathryn Rodrigue, were honored, with the Claire Swann Service Award given to new member Jacelyn McCall. A special Lifetime Member recognition was awarded to Annie Laurie Dodd. Her contribution of original watercolor artworks helped the auxiliary raise more than $2,000 for cancer programs funded by ARMC and St. Mary’s foundations.

The incoming 2009-2010 board was installed, with Alison McCullick taking over as president.

The auxiliary was founded in 1968 and is dedicated to attacking cancer through education, awareness, service and fundraisers that benefit cancer support services in the Athens area.