In an effort to return the favor to a community that supported them, a Burnt Hills family helps organize a very special event. Our CJ Spang has more.

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BURNT HILLS, N.Y. -- Step after step, people strolled around the track to celebrate, appreciate and honor life.

"It's a great community. People just really, they're first-class people. There's not anymore I can say than that," said Matt Shell, the event organizer.

The Shellstrong Foundation organized the Be Strong Stroll at Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School, which raised money for The Melodies Center, Double H Ranch, school scholarships and local families.

The community held a similar event two years ago for Jacob Shell as he battled cancer. His family created the Shellstrong Foundation. 11-year-old Jacob has been cancer-free since July 2010.

"It's nice to know that they've got your back, so you should give back I guess. So after all they've done for me, I thought, why not do something for them," said Jacob Shell, cancer survivor.

Organizers said the reason the 12-hour walk is from evening to morning, is because cancer never sleeps, so the walkers will never sleep.

"They have been so supportive. From the school, to everybody in the community, I can't begin to tell you how important that's been to my recovery," said Richard Barton, a participant in the event.

Barton made his way around the track with his daughter Sarah at his side.

"Just to see everyone gather in support of one cause, it's really awesome," said Sarah Barton.

Organizers hoped to raise $50,000.