Melissa Donovan
This Thanksgiving, lace up your running shoes and join thousands of community members at the 35th Annual Seniors First Turkey Trot 5K at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. Not only will you be part of a long-standing holiday tradition, but you’ll also be supporting a vital cause for Central Florida’s senior community.
A Race That Gives Back
The Seniors First Turkey Trot has grown into one of Orlando’s most cherished Thanksgiving traditions. Since its inception in 1989 with fewer than 200 runners, the event has evolved into the oldest and largest 5K fun run in Orlando, attracting over 4,000 participants each year. Runners, joggers, and walkers from all over the country gather to help Seniors First, the largest social services organization serving older adults in metro Orlando.
Proceeds from the race directly benefit Seniors First’s programs, which are critical to the well-being of local seniors. This 5K is more than just a race—it’s an opportunity to support the independence, dignity, and health of our elderly neighbors.
Race Day Details
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
Location: Lake Eola Park, Downtown Orlando
Schedule of Events:
- 6:30 AM: Day-of registration opens
- 7:00 AM: Costume contest
- 7:45 AM: Turkey call contest (always a crowd favorite!)
- 8:00 AM: Turkey Trot 5K
- 9:15 AM: Kids Tot Trot (for the little ones to get in on the fun!)
This family-friendly event features a 5K run, a fun costume contest, and plenty of community cheer along the race route. Whether you’re running for the prize, the fun, or the cause, there’s no better way to kick off your Thanksgiving morning.
Why the Turkey Trot Matters
- Impactful Local Story: This race funds services that directly improve the lives of seniors in our community. Proceeds go to critical services which delivered more than 450,000 meals to seniors in need last year alone.
- Community Engagement: The Turkey Trot brings together more than 4,000 runners, walkers, and volunteers, all coming together in support of seniors. It’s a time for families, friends, and neighbors to unite for a common cause while celebrating the spirit of Thanksgiving.
- Meaningful Stories: The event shines a spotlight on the people who make a difference in our community—from seniors who benefit from the programs, to volunteers who give their time, to donors who make it all possible. Their stories are a reminder of how small actions can have a big impact.
- A Tradition with Growing Impact: From its humble beginnings to drawing participants from 35 states and four countries, the Turkey Trot has become a powerful force in the fight against senior hunger. This year promises to be even bigger, with more runners, more support, and more opportunities to make a difference.
How Your Participation Helps
Seniors First provides a wide range of services designed to help seniors maintain their independence and dignity. In addition to Meals on Wheels, they offer:
- Personal care and homemaker services for seniors who need assistance with daily tasks
- Companionship and caregiver respite to support family caregivers
- Guardianship and Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank to help with medical needs and ensure safety
These services are a lifeline for many seniors who may not have access to other forms of support. By participating in the Turkey Trot 5K, you’re helping ensure that Central Florida’s older adults can continue to live independently and with dignity.
How You Can Get Involved
- Register to Race: Whether you’re running, walking, or jogging, your participation helps fund the essential programs that make a difference in seniors’ lives.
- Donate: Can’t make it to the race? You can still contribute by making a donation to Seniors First online.
- Volunteer: If you prefer to cheer from the sidelines, consider volunteering. The event always needs enthusiastic volunteers to help with registration, race-day activities, and more.
- Spread the Word: Share the event with friends and family and encourage them to participate, donate, or volunteer. The more people who know about this great cause, the greater the impact!
Giving Thanks Through Action
This Thanksgiving, as we come together to give thanks for the blessings in our lives, let’s also come together to give back to those who need it most. The Seniors First Turkey Trot 5K isn’t just about running—it’s about community, compassion, and making sure that no senior in Central Florida goes hungry or lacks the support they deserve.
So, whether you’re running for fun, for a good cause, or to compete, join us on November 28, 2024, at Lake Eola Park. Together, we can continue this incredible tradition of support and help ensure that our senior neighbors have the resources they need to thrive.
For more information on registration and ways to support the Seniors First Turkey Trot, visit www.TurkeyTrotOrlando.com
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