Events
Kid's Fun Run
Iowa Hope Run 2K
Iowa Hope Run 5K
Iowa Hope Run 10.1K
Event Description
The Iowa Hope Run is a movement that brings together survivors, families, friends, and supporters from Iowa and beyond to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research, advocacy, and patient support.
This event has spent more than a decade building a strong, compassionate community rooted in Central Iowa. As we grow, our new name reflects what has always been true—hope knows no boundaries. While proudly Iowa-based, the Iowa Hope Run welcomes participants from anywhere who are united by a shared mission: supporting those affected by brain tumors and working toward a future without them.
Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to join us at Water Works Park in Des Moines for a meaningful and inspiring day. Choose from multiple distances, including a 2K, 5K, or 10.1K, or participate virtually if you’re supporting from afar. Whether you’re running, walking, fundraising, or volunteering, every step makes an impact.
Proceeds from the Iowa Hope Run benefit Dragon Master Initiative, National Brain Tumor Society, and Children’s Cancer Connection—three organizations doing critical work in brain tumor research, awareness, advocacy, and family support.
This is more than a race—it’s a day of hope, remembrance, and community. We invite you to join us.
Registration is quick and easy through our trusted registration partner, RunSignUp. Sign-ups are currently open—visit RunSignUp to register, create or join a team, and get all the details you need for race day.
Yes—your privacy and security are important to us. No personal or payment information is stored on our website. All registration and credit card details are processed securely through our trusted partner, RunSignUp, using encrypted connections designed to protect your information at every step. RunSignUp is used by thousands of races nationwide to manage secure registrations and payments.
The Iowa Hope Run takes place at Water Works Park, located at 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines, Iowa 50321. Race day maps and directions are available to help you plan your visit.
All participants must enter Water Works Park from George Flagg Parkway, not through the main park entrance on Fleur. Parking will be available in a designated grass lot. Handicap-accessible parking is also available—please speak with a parking attendant upon arrival for assistance.
We highly encourage participants to pick up their race packet in advance. Packet pickup will be held at Genesis Health Club , located at 4349 Merle Hay Road in Des Moines, on the Friday before the race from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Early pickup helps reduce race-morning lines and creates a smoother, more relaxed start to race day.
Packets will also be available on race morning; however, availability is limited and lines can be long. If you plan to pick up on race day, please arrive early to allow plenty of time before your event begins.
Gates open at 7:00 a.m., with the Kids Fun Run beginning at 8:45 a.m. The main races start promptly at 9:00 a.m., so we recommend arriving early to allow time for parking, warm-ups, and race-day festivities.
Absolutely! The Iowa Hope Run welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels. With a 2K walk, a 5K walk/run, and a 10.1K run, there’s an option for everyone—whether you’re pushing a stroller, walking with friends, or chasing a personal best.
You don’t have to run to make a difference. By registering as a Virtual Runner for $35, you help support brain tumor awareness and the families we serve—while still receiving an event T-shirt as a symbol of your support. Spectators are always welcome, so bring your family, cheer on participants, and be part of a day dedicated to hope, community, and impact.
All participants receive an official Iowa Hope Run T-shirt, a finisher medal, and post-race refreshments at the finish line, including fruit and beverages. Participants in the 5K and 10.1K events also receive a bib with chip timing.
Absolutely! The Iowa Hope Run is a family-friendly event, and we love seeing kids take part in a day centered on hope and community. Strollers and smaller bikes are welcome in the 2K Walk and 5K Run/Walk. For everyone’s safety, participants using strollers or bikes should line up behind runners at the start.
Registration fees are generally not tax deductible under IRS guidelines, as they are considered an “in-kind” contribution in exchange for goods and services (such as a T-shirt, medal, and race participation).
However, donations made in addition to registration are tax deductible, as they are passed directly to our beneficiary organizations, which are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Upon request, donors may receive appropriate documentation from the beneficiary organization for tax purposes. As always, we recommend consulting your tax advisor with any specific questions about tax deductibility.
Sponsors play a vital role in making the Iowa Hope Run possible and helping us maximize our impact for brain tumor families. We welcome both cash and in-kind sponsorships at a variety of levels. Visit our Sponsorships page to learn more about available opportunities and how your support makes a difference.
Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome at the Iowa Hope Run, as long as they’re comfortable around large crowds. For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, if your dog tends to bark, become anxious, or doesn’t interact well with other animals, we kindly recommend leaving them at home.
Behind every step taken at the Iowa Hope Run is a family navigating a brain tumor diagnosis. Funds raised through the event help ensure families are not walking that journey alone. Proceeds support Dragon Master Initiative, National Brain Tumor Society, and — organizations that provide research, resources, and direct support to patients and families when they need it most. Together, we turn miles into hope.
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Event Location
Des Moines Water Works Park
2201 George Flagg Pkwy
Des Moines, IA 50321 US
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