San Diego CA— Before filling up on Thanksgiving dinner, more than 7,500 runners and walkers are expected to lace up their sneakers for San Diego’s original turkey trot: Father Joe’s Villages’ Thanksgiving Day 5K.
As one of San Diego’s largest homeless services providers, Father Joe’s Villages works with more than 2,000 individuals every day to help them break the cycle of homelessness. Proceeds from its Thanksgiving 5K will help Father Joe’s Villages to prepare and serve more than one million meals to neighbors in need who are homeless.
“For 15 years, families in San Diego have made this race part of their holiday tradition, and their spirit of generosity continues to have ripple effects throughout our community,” said Deacon Jim Vargas, Father Joe’s Villages’ president and CEO. “Thousands of people make lasting memories with their loved ones at our 5K – and they help local families in need with every step.”
Participants of all ages will follow the iconic, dog-friendly route through Balboa Park to reach a family-friendly festival at the finish line. Following the morning run/walk, the group will enjoy a live blues band, refreshments, a beer garden and a costume contest. Canine participants are welcome in the festival’s dog area, while children can get creative with crafts and meet their favorite Disney-inspired characters.
To make their Thanksgiving dinner more meaningful, participants can also purchase a delicious pie at the end of the race. Pies for sale are made by individuals working to achieve self-sufficiency in Father Joe’s Villages’ culinary arts program.
Presented by AimLoan.com, Father Joe’s Villages’ Thanksgiving Day 5K starts at 7:30 a.m. on November 24 at Sixth Street and Laurel Street. Registration costs range from $35 to $45, with special discounts for youth and military. For more information and to register, visit thanksgivingrun.org.
If you’re unable to make it to the race, you can still empower local individuals and families who are homeless by donating to Father Joe’s Villages.