Children's HealthJanuary 9, 2026
Registration now open for annual Donut Dash fundraiser
(SACRAMENTO)
Registration for the 18th annual Donut Dash is now open.
The fun run, which raises money for the UC Davis Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department, is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, at 8:30 a.m. at William Land Park in Sacramento.
It all starts with a two-mile run, jog or walk to Marie’s Donuts where the competitive participants eat four donuts before sprinting the two miles back to the start/finish area. Noncompetitive participants can consume three donuts or six donut holes (or nothing at all!) before heading back two miles to the start/finish area.
Since 2016, Donut Dash (as well as its companion event, the Scoop Scoot) has raised $587,500 for the Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department. The funds have supported the purchase of pediatric patient resources, such as video gaming carts, additional iPads, a 3D printer, art supplies and musical instruments. The money also supported the Beads of Courage program for patients with life-altering conditions at UC Davis Children’s Hospital.
Donut Dash is well known at the children’s hospital: In 2024, an official naming ceremony unveiled the “Powered by Donut Dash” sign in the pediatrics playroom.
“The Donut Dash perfectly captures the spirit of our community by bringing people together in such a fun and meaningful way,” said Diana Sundberg, manager of the Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department. “We are incredibly thankful to the community for their continued enthusiasm and generosity year after year helping raise funds that directly support programs and activities that bring comfort, creativity, and joy to our pediatric patients.”
The Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department helps to minimize the anxiety of hospitalization, increase understanding, and strengthen coping skills while helping children continue their typical growth and development.
To register for the fun run or to make a donation, visit the Donut Dash website and choose to support the Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department at UC Davis Children’s Hospital.
