The Story
Imagine a 5K where every runner is dressed as a superhero, a video game character, or an anime legend — and every step they take raises money for kids in children's hospitals. That's Causeplaying: part charity run, part cosplay celebration, 100% for the kids.
Causeplaying 2026 is a 3-day event in Seattle bringing together cosplayers, streamers, and gaming communities to raise $250,000 for 12 children's hospitals. Participants register as "causeplayers," build individual fundraising pages, and run in costume — with the top fundraisers earning awards and recognition at a closing ceremony.
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"We've seen what happens when you give gamers a reason to run. They don't just show up — they fundraise like their lives depend on it. Last year's test event raised $40K with 12 participants. With 47 registered causeplayers and full production, $250K isn't a dream. It's a projection."
Nathan B. — Event Director, Games For Love
But here's the thing: the event doesn't happen without underwriting. Venue rental, production, insurance, marketing, race materials — none of that comes from the fundraising itself. The $100,000 underwriting goal is what makes the event possible, and every dollar raised by causeplayers goes straight to hospitals. Your donation here makes all of it possible.
❓ Causeplaying FAQ
What is Causeplaying, exactly?
Causeplaying is a 3-day charity event combining cosplay, gaming community, and a 5K run. Participants register as "causeplayers," build their own fundraising pages, and run in full costume during the event. Every dollar raised goes to 12 children's hospitals on the GFL roster. It's part charity run, part cosplay celebration, 100% for the kids.
When and where is Causeplaying 2026?
August 15–17, 2026 in Seattle, WA — co-located with PAX West at the Seattle Convention Center. Opening ceremony Friday night, 5K run Saturday morning, awards & streamer panel Sunday afternoon. Full schedule published on the event landing page once underwriting closes.
How do I participate as a causeplayer?
Registration opens March 15. Pick a costume, set a personal fundraising goal, build your page (we give you a template), and start sharing with your community. The only requirement is that you're willing to run a 5K in your chosen costume. Registration is $25 and includes race bib, swag, and access to all event weekend activities.
Where does the money go?
100% of funds raised by causeplayers go directly to the 12 partner children's hospitals on the GFL roster — Yale New Haven, Phoenix Children's, Seattle Children's, and 9 others. Funds are used for gaming stations, play therapy equipment, and direct-to-kid 1Up LifeBridge packages. Underwriting donations on this page cover event logistics so 100% of fundraised money reaches hospitals.
Why does the event need underwriting?
Running a 3-day event costs ~$100,000 in venue, production, insurance, marketing, and race materials. If we funded event costs from the money causeplayers raise, we'd take a 40% bite out of hospital funding. Instead, We're Giving donors cover event underwriting separately — so every dollar a causeplayer raises reaches a kid. It's a 2.5x multiplier on your underwriting donation.
Can my company sponsor the event?
Yes — Gold ($25K), Silver ($10K), and Bronze ($2.5K) tiers available. Sponsorships include livestream exposure, PAX West booth access, and direct hospital partnerships. See the Event Sponsorship Tiers section above for the full breakdown, or reach out via our Partner page for a custom proposal.
