Wake Forest Fundraiser Raised Nearly $407,000
The 2026 Hit the Bricks event set a new fundraising record for cancer research in Winston-Salem.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Philanthropy
Live Poll
Do you find large-scale charity events to be effective ways to motivate community giving?
Wake Forest University students and community members raised nearly $407,000 for cancer research and patient care during the 2026 Hit the Bricks fundraiser. This annual event drew 2,406 participants who completed a combined 11,862 laps around the university Quad.
Why it matters
The funds support critical cancer research and patient services at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. This student-led effort continues to grow, providing vital financial resources for the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund.
The 2026 Hit the Bricks event raised nearly $407,000, surpassing the previous record of over $348,000 set in 2025. Cumulative totals for the 23-year-old event have now exceeded $2.1 million.
The players
Wake Forest University
This private research university located in Winston-Salem hosts the annual Hit the Bricks relay event.
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
This academic medical center serves as the recipient of funds raised for cancer research and patient services.
Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund
This organization funds research and patient care in honor of the former NFL player who died in 1970.
The details
Teams competed throughout the day to accumulate laps and maximize donations, ultimately completing 11,862 total circuits around the university campus. The event is part of a broader philanthropic tradition at the university, where annual student-led events have collectively generated more than $6.5 million.
Timeline
The 2026 Hit the Bricks event was held on October 1, 2026.
The Hit the Bricks event was originally established in 2003.
The Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund was created in 1980.
Market Landscape
This fundraiser reflects a broader trend of university-led philanthropy driving significant donations toward local healthcare institutions. It reinforces the role of academic centers as central hubs for fundraising and community-driven charitable initiatives.
The annual event provides significant financial resources for patient care at a major regional medical provider. Residents and students play a direct role in funding local cancer initiatives through their participation and fundraising efforts.
The takeaway
Large-scale student-led events demonstrate how academic communities can significantly impact local medical research and patient support services. These organized efforts illustrate the power of grassroots fundraising to sustain long-term philanthropic goals.
Further reading
For more information on university charitable activities, visit the Winston-Salem Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
Live Poll
Do you find large-scale charity events to be effective ways to motivate community giving?
