Thursday, you can join March for Babies advocates and families to kick off the 2016 fundraising season.

The kickoff will run from noon until 1 p.m. at the Rose Hill Community Center, located at 304 Lincoln Ave. in Mukilteo. Lunch will be provided.

“The lunch is open to the public. Individuals and families will be there. Most of the people there have been affected by our mission,” Marla Ellis, spokeswoman for March of Dimes said.

March for Babies raises money to support programs that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies and funds research to find causes and ways to prevent premature births and infant deaths.

The fundraising season culminates with marches in April. The Snohomish County march will be held on April 23 in Everett. It’s a 3.1 mile walk around Langus Riverfront Park, located at 400 Smith Island Rd.

“People who walk are people that are walking with a baby in a stroller who was born premature and they weren’t sure if they were going to make it,” Ellis said. “Others are remembering their lost babies, honoring them and raising money so other families won’t have to go through that.”

The kickoff event Thursday is an opportunity for community members to form teams, join a team or learn more about the March of Dimes mission.

“It’s a great opportunity for anyone who is an advocate for moms and babies to learn about us,” Ellis said.

To learn more about the March for Babies, or to donate or join a team, visit their website.