It's something we've all been affected by. Either we have been directly impacted with a mother, sister, grandparent or some other family member who has been diagnosed with cancer or maybe it was a friend, neighbor or colleague.

And while there are many walks, runs and benefits that acknowledge the disease, there have not been many parties over cancer. Or for that matter, parties that started as a backyard barbecue.

This Sunday, a “major” party will be held at the Auburn Correctional Facility Recreational Center on Franklin Street starting at 11:30 a.m. running until after the last band (Johnny Bender) finishes their set that starts at 9:30 p.m. The goal of the day is to not only have a little fun, but to raise money that can be given to local charities.

The brainchild of Auburn Police Officer Chris Major grew out of an annual backyard party that started at his home nearly a dozen years ago. Last year the event raised $3,600 that went to the local Relay for Life walk-a-thon. This year, with a more ambitious goal of raising $4,000 to $5,000 the not for profit beneficiaries include not only the Relay, slated for Friday, June 5, but expands to include Hospice of the Finger Lakes and Matthew House.

Over the years, Major, a school resource officer at East Middle School, has recruited friends and family members to help with the cause. The idea behind Majorpalooza is simple #- you can make a positive difference and also have fun at the same time.

The day at the recreational center features four bands, including the Dave Matthews tribute band “One Sweet World” and is a family friendly event. With a jumpy house, face painting and balloons galore, the $7 price of admission includes free hamburgers and hot dogs, as long as they last.

This year, a new event has been added. The First Annual Majorpalozza Run 4 Life, as it is billed, is a 5 kilometer run that starts at 10 a.m. at Cayuga County Community College. That will immediately be followed by a Kiddie Fun Run at 11 a.m., prior to the event out Franklin Street Road.

Majorpalooza is another example of what makes this community great. With a little help from his friends, and a lot of support from our community, thousands of dollars are raised annually to make a difference in the lives of those who have cancer or are facing their last days. It is people like this, a local 30-something, who transformed a family gathering into a yearly cause that makes our community better. He proves the idea that you can help your community while having a good time.

Cosentino is a former mayor of Auburn and can be contacted at cozguytho@aol.com