Donor Alliance, the federally-designated, non-profit organ procurement organization and American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) accredited tissue bank serving Colorado and Wyoming will this month once again host the Donor Dash. The 13th annual 5K run/walk is to honor the lives of organ and tissue donors, celebrate the lives of organ and tissue recipients and recognize those who continue to wait for a lifesaving transplant. The event will take place the morning of July 15 in Denver’s historic Washington Park.

The Donor Dash has steadily grown and more than 4,100 people, including about two hundred volunteers and 100 teams, participated in last year’s event. Donor Alliance hopes to surpass 5,000 participants this year. The event is open to people of all ages and offers a terrific family-friendly summer activity.

“We eagerly anticipate this year’s Donor Dash, an event that has become a favorite in the Denver community for its fun celebration of life and touching remembrance of those generous donors that gave the ultimate gift,” said Sue Dunn, president and CEO of Donor Alliance. “Each summer, we look forward to educating even more Coloradans about the miracle of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Events like this one help us to maintain a strong presence in the community.”

This year the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles spokesperson, Guy VROOM, will be leading an ‘80s inspired Donor Dash team that race participants should be sure to check out. Guy VROOM, a comical, mullet-wearing “dude” stuck in the ‘80s, encourages people to renew licenses online and skip the lines at the DMV, thereby remaining youthful and fun by keeping their old photos. He also encourages Coloradans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors when renewing their licenses.

Race day registration and packet pickup starts at 7 AM July 15, followed by the 5k run/walk at 8 AM, the Diaper Dash for children 3 at 9:15 AM, Recognition Ceremony at 9:30 AM and the Balloon Release at 10:15 AM. More information about how to register or volunteer and maps for the event can be found at www.DonorAlliance.org/DonorDash.

Join the 67 percent of Coloradans who have registered to be organ, eye and tissue donors. For more information about organ and tissue donation, please visit DonorAlliance.org. To register to be an organ and tissue donor, please visit DonateLifeColorado.org, DonateLifeWyoming.org or call 303-329-4747 for more information.