Finally, fall is in the air and with it the planning and anticipation for our annual Turkey Trot Charity 5k is in full swing. After switching to a virtual event last year due to COVID, this year’s event is shaping up to mark an exciting and badly needed moment of celebration and community across all six Y race locations in central Maryland (a virtual option remains available). There’s nothing like a crisp late November morning with thousands of your neighbors, many of whom are dressed up in funny costumes with their dogs in tow. It’s a fun and uplifting morning of community and good vibes on a uniquely American holiday. And, best of all, it generates enormous resources that allow us to ensure that the Y is absolutely “for all.”
Supporting our annual fund, the Y Turkey Trot allows us to provide Open Doors access to Y camp, membership and a myriad of other programs that help keep all members of our community active and connected to opportunities that are positive, reaffirming and good in every way. In addition, registrants donate canned goods when they pick up their packets and in turn that food goes to those who are food insecure in our community, so the impact is exponential.
In 2019, nearly $1 million was raised for the cause with nearly 16,000 runners, walkers, stroller and dogs of every age participating. While we don’t expect to reach 2019 numbers given the strained circumstances of the year, with your help, we aim to get at least 80% of the way there (but hopefully even better!).
We can’t do it without our community, however! The success of Turkey Trot and in turn our ability to help more people in our community, really rests on each of us registering and getting involved. Participation helps you and your family have a healthy, bonding experience and in turn the proceeds help others too. It’s a virtuous cycle of goodness and act of optimism that starts with each of us. Please take this moment now to register at ymdturkeytrot.org and encourage your friends and family to do the same!
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland