Local nonprofit releases impact numbers, fundraising update and announces awards

Jacksonville, Fla. –– April 2, 2025 –– The DONNA Foundation celebrated the 18th running of its signature DONNA Marathon Weekend from January 31 through February 2, 2025. The annual race weekend, which includes 5K, half-marathon and full marathon distances, witnessed more than 7,300 athletes running or walking their way to in-person finish lines, with another nearly 200 individuals participating virtually –– together, seeing an 18% increase year-over-year, surpassing pre-pandemic race volume.

Data collected by Visit Jacksonville shows this year’ s event attracted more than 11,000 visitors to Northeast Florida and generated more than $4 million in economic impact to the area –– a 9% increase over the prior year.

Last year, the organization took home several prestigious national and regional awards in addition to celebrating its 20th anniversary of serving breast cancer patients and families across the country. The Foundation’s half-marathon, a signature event in the DONNA Marathon Weekend series, was ranked number four in the country for “Best Half Marathons” by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards. This year, The DONNA Foundation was nominated again in both the “best half marathon” and “best marathon” categories –– placing number 3 and number 4 in each respective category.

“Running events are back and thriving –– and we couldn’t be happier to see it,” said Amanda Napolitano, Executive Director of The DONNA Foundation. “The popularity of DONNA Marathon Weekend is in large part attributed to the growing popularity of run clubs throughout Northeast Florida, and around the country. We are so happy that the world of running is growing and becoming even more inclusive for athletes everywhere –– for the second year in a row, our 18-29 demographic grew by seven percent! We are proud to welcome all athletes to our signature races throughout the year. Every participant makes a difference for those living with a breast cancer diagnosis.”

DONNA Marathon Weekend is more than a series of races –– it serves as a major fundraiser for The DONNA Foundation. For the 2025 race weekend, participating athletes and race champions raised more than $205,000 –– surpassing the organization’s $200,000 goal for the event. Top fundraisers and teams were honored through an exclusive dinner during DONNA Marathon Weekend. Team FIS, Team Samantha –– Just A Blip and Team Suction, along with individuals including Amy Mergen, Samantha Pappas and Lynn Roche, were honored this year.

In addition to individual and team impact, major philanthropic supporters The Predator Group and LUV Carwash were also honored for their commitment to The DONNA Foundation. The Predator Group, a Jacksonville-based billiards organization, was recognized for raising $50,000 through its Shades of Pink fundraiser. LUV Carwash presented a check for $20,644 and committed its support for The DONNA Foundation and the DONNA CareLine Financial Aid Fund through 2026. Both organizations have made ongoing commitments to the Foundation.

“At Predator Group, we believe in the power of community and are proud to share the impact of our partnership with The DONNA Foundation,” said Brandy Cartwright, Director of Commercial & Institutional Marketing. “Through the sale of select products, we proudly supported their mission of providing hope, support, and financial relief to individuals affected by breast cancer. This milestone reflects our commitment to turning passion into purpose, using our platform in the billiards industry to drive meaningful change. We are grateful to The DONNA Foundation for their tireless dedication and honored to stand beside them in this important cause. Together, we’re showing how businesses and nonprofits can unite to create lasting impact.”

DONNA Marathon Weekend provides the necessary funding to fulfil the Foundation’s vision of a world where breast cancer patients are freed from any barriers to their successful treatment. The Foundation encourages everyone to get involved –– no gift, pledge or volunteer opportunity is too small.

Registration for the 2026 DONNA Marathon Weekend events will open this summer. For more information, visit thedonnafoundation.org/.