Angelica Dennet
Dash Chair
A neighborhood party with a purpose
Dash for the Beads is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that donates its proceeds to local schools to help promote healthy eating and physical activity for our grade school children. Area schools are eligible to apply for grants that encourage kids to stay in motion and to learn about and practice habits that lead to a healthy lifestyle.
Dash for the Beads is an annual 5K and 1-mile walk that coincides with Mardi Gras, so come out and laissez les bons temps rouler! (To any Mardi Gras rookies, that is Cajun for "Let the good times roll.")
Each year we award an enviable trophy to the winner of the chip-timed 5K. Come join an event that has become a neighborhood tradition, benefiting neighborhood schools.
The Dash was founded in 2009 by "Cliff Dwellers" Chad West and David Sassano as a way to raise money for Oak Cliff organizations. Monetary donations from those not able to participate are welcome.
Mission statement
Dash for the Beads activities provide funds for Dallas-area schools and non-profits to promote physical fitness, healthy eating, and arts programming.
How we accomplish our mission
- Raising funds annually for Oak Cliff schools and non-profits that serve children through the Dash for the Beads 5K and fun run, as well as Last Bag Standing and Friends of the Dash.
- Requesting grant proposals annually from Oak Cliff schools and non-profits that offer physical fitness, healthy eating, and arts programming for children.
- Carefully reviewing and scoring grant applications to ensure Dash for the Beads is a good steward of the funds it raises.
- Awarding grant funds to Oak Cliff schools and non-profits based on the Grant Review Process.
- Diligently following up with awardees to ensure grant funds are spent as requested and all grant reporting is complete and in order.
How your participation has helped
Our impact
$325,000
Donations awarded
Since 2014
34
Organizations funded
Since 2014
$27,000
In free entries
To approx. 675 DISD kids over 3 years
1,000+
Runners
Approx. per year
2026 committee
The people behind the Dash
Krystal Huerta
Event Chair
Vicky Gouge
Marketing
Jacob Huerta
Race Route / Festival Leader
Benny Guzman
Community Liaison
Claudia Huerta
Sponsorships
Becky and Chris Moffet
Emeritus Leaders
Chad West
Founder
The Dash committee is always looking for sponsors, vendors, and volunteers who would like to be part of this worthwhile event. See how to get involved.