NILES — More than 300 people filled the YMCA of Southwest Michigan gym Thursday to enjoy a meal and listen to a speaker during the fifth annual Hope Grows Luncheon.

Jill Haboush, vice president of fund development and marketing for the YMCA, estimated that about $53,000 had been raised during the luncheon. The proceeds will be split between the LIVESTRONG Program and the Marie Yeager Cancer Center.

During the lunch, speaker Bob Byers, a cancer caregiver, addressed the crowd. Byers shared his experience caring for family members who have battled cancer. 

Hope Grows is an organization formed through the partnership of the YMCA of Southwest Michigan and the Lakeland Health Foundations. Their efforts raise money so that local cancer patients can have access to screenings, treatment and follow-up care at no charge.

Above, from left, Denise Peters, the COO of the YMCA, posed with Sarah Workman, of Niles, during the Hope Grows Luncheon.

Right, speaker Bob Byers shared his experience as a caregiver for cancer patients during the fifth annual Hope Grows Luncheon.

Far right, from left, Kara West, Felicity Myers and Caprianna Byrd were among the Niles High School culinary arts students who helped to prepare lunch Thursday. (Leader photos/KELSEY HAMMON)