Since its inception, the Krispy Kreme Challenge has been proud to support the UNC Children's Hospital, a specialty-designed hospital that caters to the needs of sick or injured children and their families. The mission of the hospital is to provide the highest quality care to patients from all 100 counties in North Carolina, regardless of a family's ability to afford the services. The money we raise goes to help fund additional equipment and support services necessary to provide exceptional care. It makes possible innovative programs that aid in the treatment and care of children suffering from a wide range of illnesses. It also gives patients the chance to just be kids, by playing on the 2-story play atrium or participating in a variety of on-site activities. In addition, the hospital has the state's only fully accredited hospital school, which keeps patients from kindergarten to 12th grade on top of their studies. 

Whether you choose to run the challenge, volunteer, raise money, or simply donate, you can be confident that your investment is supporting a great cause. Please consider supporting the children of North Carolina in some way for this year's Krispy Kreme Challenge!

A Tradition Begins

The Krispy Kreme Challenge started in December 2004 as a dare among a few Park Scholars and their friends, all NC State undergraduates. Sophomore Ben Gaddy took home bragging rights that afternoon, running the race in 34 minutes and 27 seconds. After receiving positive coverage from local and national media, Krispy Kreme Challenge was labeled as:

1. #85 on the "102 More Things You Gotta Do Before You Graduate" by Sports Illustrated
2. "#1 Thing to Do Before You Graduate." by N.C. State Student Government
3. One of Denise Malan’s The Runner's Bucket List: 200 Races to Run Before You Die

Organizers decided to publicize the Krispy Kreme Challenge and turn it into something that would not only be an event to bring together people from all over the country but also to benefit an important cause along the way.  It was no surprise when organizers selected The UNC Children's Hospital as the most deserving beneficiary of this ultimate collegiate challenge.