Our organization is 100% volunteer operated.
Everyone plays an important role, but this annual event would not go on
as it does without the leadership and
dedication from these extraordinary women, and all other volunteers.
Cassandra is the founder of Dash for Smiles. Her second son, Isaac, was born cleft affected in 2005. At that time there was minimal support for families of cleft affected children. Around the same time, she began running for fun. She connected with two other mother’s of cleft children over social media and the idea for Dash for Smiles was born. The goal was to connect cleft patients and their families along with ensuring all children affected by cleft had the same quality healthcare. Today, Dash for Smiles has donated $120K to the cleft lip/palate clinics at Children’s Hospital and Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. We have a strong and vibrant community of supporters that continue to support us year after year.
My name is Valeri Meyers. I’ve been participating in the Dash for Smiles since its beginning, and have been so lucky to be a part of the team now for many years. I’m a Denver native, a former social worker and teacher and I currently own and operate Meyers Munchies food cart! I’m a Mom and a Grammy and I love the family culture this organization promotes. Cleft affected kiddos hold a special place in my heart and I am so proud of the work we’ve done to contribute to the cleft community here in Denver. I can’t wait for this year’s event-I hope to see all our old friends and many new faces this year!
Hello, I'm Christina. Cassandra is one of my best friends and when her and Joyce started putting on the Dash, I was always a participant and helped any way I could. Six years ago I became a volunteer and also started helping with the planning of the event, and all of the fundraising we do throughout the year. I love being a part of this non-profit, and I look forward to seeing our visions come to life each and every year.
Jasmine is an integral part of the Dash For Smiles team. She is constantly fundraising for the organization and loves her role as a volunteer.
I am here so I don't get fined.
But, seriously I love helping out Dash For Smiles. When this started I knew it was going to be a success. I wanted to help out in any way I could from the beginning, and I try every year to find something new that I can bring to the table. The ladies above are amazing at bringing the Dash For Smiles 5k and all the other events together, and I am happy to work beside them on this year after year.