Y Monthly Monday Mission Update
From Venezuela to Australia to Texas to Baltimore,
It’s the Y Turkey Trot Charity 5k that Brings Them Back Together
As you may have already read in my Thanksgiving Day note, we set a new record for the Y Turkey Trot Charity 5k with an extraordinary 17,617 participants this year. From families and friends to neighbors, including 325 registered dogs (and certainly a whole lot more unregistered ones!), Thanksgiving morning brought together people from all walks of life at our Arnold, Baltimore City, Bel Air, Ellicott City, Towson, and Westminster race locations for a celebration of health, community, and the joy of giving back.
It’s no surprise that this event continues to grow. People and families sign up for the Y Turkey Trot for their own reasons, but it’s somewhat undeniable that what brings so many back year after year is the sense of community they feel that morning, as well as the cherished tradition that the Y Turkey Trot has become for them. Few stories capture this better than that of two of our Baltimore City trotters, Daniel and Herwart Viete.
Born six weeks apart in Venezuela to twin brothers, their story spans three continents. Daniel grew up in Australia, while Herwart was raised in Venezuela; today they live in Baltimore and Texas, respectively. Though 1,500 miles apart, they reunite each year to participate in our Y Turkey Trot, a tradition that continues to deepen their bond.
“My family is in Australia, which feels like the farthest place from here, so being able to run the event together is really special for both of us. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the day, and I love spending time with family and friends. It’s become a family tradition,” says Daniel.
“If you’re in a position to help others, why not?” adds Herwart. “I love the Trot. It’s an opportunity to bond with your friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers. It’s also a personal challenge. Not everyone can run, but the Trot meets you where you are. And for me, that’s a leisurely stroll!”
As part of Team International Turkeys, a Turkey Trot group that has grown to 42 members in its ninth year, Daniel and Herwart exemplify the spirit of the day. And while the event is undeniably fun, they also recognize that its true impact extends well beyond the finish line.
“There is great need in the community, and the Y knows how to tackle it. With generations of experience, they take the time to listen and take meaningful action to address what matters most,” shares Daniel.
While the final accounting will take a few weeks to complete, we anticipate that we will have raised close to $800,000 this past Thursday morning. Those funds will allow the Y to serve hundreds of children and families across a wide range of Y programs, deepen community connection, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
I am deeply grateful to the exceptional Y volunteers, sponsors and associates who bring this event to life every year. Your talent, commitment, and heart have made this fundraiser more impactful than could have ever been imagined when it originated almost 30 years ago as two small races in Towson and Bel Air. A shout-out to our lead sponsors Johns Hopkins, DEX Imaging, LifeBridge Health, Creig Northrop Realty, the Orokawa Foundation, and Fulton Bank, as well as all of our sponsors and donors, for supporting this important and incredibly inspiring community event!
All the best,
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland