June 6, 2025

Donation Essentials Blog

Donor Dash 5K: Things to Know Before You Run!

June 6, 2025

The 26th Annual Donor Dash 5k is Right Around the Corner!

 The 26th Annual Donor Dash 5K is right around the corner! So, mark your calendars for Sunday, July 20, 2025, and join us at Denver’s beautiful Washington Park.

It’s a day filled with both purpose and community. Each year, this heartfelt event brings together thousands of participants—including donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and supporters—all connected by the powerful mission of organ and tissue donation.

Moreover, it’s more than just a 5K run/walk. It’s a day to honor, celebrate, and recognize all of those impacted by donation in our community.

How to Register and Form a Team for Donor Dash 5k

Getting signed up for the Donor Dash 5k is easy! You can register as an individual or start a team. If you create a team, you’ll automatically become the Team Captain. Teams come in all forms, each with a meaningful connection to the cause. Some are created by donor families honoring the legacy of a loved one. Others are made up of friends and relatives celebrating a transplant recipient’s second chance at life. Additionally, there’s an outpouring of support from our organizational partners and community. No matter how you participate, your presence helps raise awareness.

Early Packet Pickup Details

Join us for Early Packet Pickup on Wednesday, July 16, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Donor Alliance office (200 Spruce Street, Denver, CO 80230). Team captains are responsible for picking up their team’s packets or designating a team member to do so. For teams with 10 or more participants, all packets will be grouped together for easy pickup. If you do not pick up your packet at early packet pick up, they will be available to get on race day starting at 7:00am.

Dashboard: Share Your Story

The Donor Dash 5k is full of powerful moments that honor the gift of organ, eye, and tissue donation. One way to share your story is through the Dashboard. Near the main stage in the exhibitor area, two large videoboards will display Dashboard photo submissions throughout the morning. Submit a photo and message to highlight your personal connection or why the Donor Dash 5k matters to you. Whether you’re walking in memory, in celebration, or in support, the Dashboard is a powerful way to share your story with the entire community. The Dashboard form closes on Friday, June 27. Submit your request here. 

Honorary Signs: A Beautiful Tribute

One of the most heartfelt ways to pay tribute at the Donor Dash 5k is by submitting a request for an Honorary Sign. These signs are placed along the event route and offer 

a beautiful opportunity to recognize those whose stories inspire us all.

There are three types of signs for Donor Dash 5k you can choose from:

· Memorial Garden Sign – In memory of a loved one who became an organ, eye, or tissue donor. These signs have their own designated area in the Memorial Garden.

· Inspirational Sign – To celebrate a transplant recipient or support someone currently waiting for a transplant.

· Living Donor Sign – Honoring the incredible generosity of living donors who have given the gift of life. These signs are a powerful way to share your connection to donation and ensure your loved one’s legacy or journey is seen and remembered. The form for a sign closes on Monday, June 16. Submit your request here. 

Donor Dash 5K Race Day Program

Join us on race day at 9:30 AM for a special onstage program that celebrates the powerful connections created through donation. Right after, take part in a meaningful ribbon ceremony.

Donor Dash 5K: Things to Know

It’s a moment you won’t want to miss. If you’re able, please plan to stay and take part in this inspiring experience!

After you complete your Donor Dash 5K run/walk, pick up your connection ribbon to participate in the ceremony. See the color connections listed to the right. We’re excited to come together at the 26th annual Donor Dash 5K to honor, celebrate, and recognize the incredible impact of donation as a community.

 Register Today!

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