News
2025 Sierra Donor Dash Breaks Records with Heart, Hope, and Heroism
April 16, 2025
The 2025 Sierra Donor Services Donor Dash 5K Run and Walk – also known as the Sierra Donor Dash – was an unforgettable morning filled with energy, emotion, and community spirit. Held under beautiful spring skies, this year’s event registered a record breaking 416 participants – that’s 100 more than in 2023 – with countless supporters crossing the finish line!
But the biggest win? We raised an incredible $58,589, tripling 2023’s total of $20,324. That amount includes fundraising, donations, registrations, and generous sponsorships. And guess what? Donations are still open for three more weeks, so that number could climb even higher.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
A heartfelt shoutout goes to all of our amazing sponsors – your support made this day possible and pushed our impact to new heights.
TEAM SPOTLIGHT: Team Graceful Warriors
One of the most touching moments of the day came from the family of Donor Hero Grace Mayberry, who shared their story and led the largest team of the event. Their efforts raised over $9,000 alone – a powerful testament to Grace’s legacy and the love she continues to inspire.

“Grace was artistic, musical, intelligent and passionate about change and inclusivity. She continued to show love and compassion for others through the ultimate gift of organ donation.”
– Denise Mayberry, Grace’s Mother



🦋💙Team Graceful Warrior💚🦋
PROCLAMATION: YOLO COUNTY
We were honored to receive a proclamation from Yolo County Supervisor Oscar Villegas’ office, recognizing the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation and the life-saving work being done through events like the Donor Dash.

Jack Johnson, Assistant Deputy to Yolo County Supervisor-Oscar Villegas reads a proclamation in support of National Donate Life Month
BRINGING IN THE SPIRIT: THE SACRAMENTO KINGS

Adding to the excitement, the Sacramento Kings brought the spirit! Scott Freshour, the Kings’ Entertainment Director, served as emcee, keeping the crowd hyped. Slamson the Lion kept everyone smiling, while the Kings Dancers handed out medals to our youngest racers and lined the course to cheer on every runner and walker.
The Hero Kids Hub was a family favorite, offering activities and space to celebrate the tiniest dashers.




This year’s event was also proud to include strong community support from health care professionals and advocates, with participation from:
- The Philippine Nurses Association California Capital City (PNAC3)
- The Capitol City Black Nurses Association (CCBNA)
- The Sacramento Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN)

And of course, it wouldn’t be a race without celebrating our winners! 🏅
Race Results:
- Overall Male Winner: Luis Leon, 18:29
- Overall Female Winner: Alyssa Hernandez, 24:13
For a full list of race results, visit the Sierra Donor Dash 5K Race Roster page.
Thank you to everyone who ran, walked, cheered, fundraised, and volunteered. You made this event a celebration of life, legacy, and community. Together, we honored our heroes, supported donor families, and helped raise awareness for the gift of donation.
Let’s keep the momentum going – donations are still open!
Save lives as an organ, eye and tissue donor at DonateLifeCalifornia.org.
Support Sierra Donor Services with a monetary donation here!
About Sierra Donor Services
Sierra Donor Services (SDS) serves nearly three million people in Northern California and Northern Nevada. We are an exceptional team of professionals dedicated to saving and improving lives by connecting organ and tissue donation to the patients who need them. We strive to extend the reach of each generous donor’s gift to those who are always profoundly grateful for them.