2017 New Canaan Turkey Trot Set For Nov. 19

NEW CANAAN, CT - From Open Door Shelter: Give thanks and make a difference at the New Canaan Turkey Trot on Sunday, November 19, at 11:30 a.m. The 14th annual 5K run/walk begins and ends at Waveny Park on South Avenue in New Canaan. Proceeds from the race benefit The Open Door Shelter. The Shelter provides supportive housing and emergency shelter to those in need in the area, and their kitchen and food pantry provide over 30,000 meals every month to people struggling to make ends meet.

Organized by a team of New Canaan and Weston students, the event provides much-needed funds over the busy holiday season. This year’s event is co-chaired by Brielle Connelly and David Tamburri along with committee members Katie Libman, Caroline Pellegrino, Katherine Pellegrino, Bridget Salmini, Sophie Salmini, and Zach Tamburri.

David Tamburri, Co-Chair, sees the race as an opportunity to make a difference. "The Shelter touches the lives of many. We're glad - in just doing our small part - to support such an impactful and compassionate organization, especially around this holiday, when help is needed most."

"It has been an incredible experience working with The Open Door Shelter and the Turkey Trot committee these past few years. The enthusiasm to make a difference in people's lives has taught me a lot about the human spirit," said Brielle Connelly, Co-Chair.

This year’s race sponsors include: Building and Land Technology, Hospital for Special Surgery, JoyRide Cycling Studio, Millennium, New Balance New Canaan, and Wheelock Street Capital. There are still opportunities to donate and be included as a Finish Line sponsor or other supporter.

Jeannette Archer-Simons, Executive Director of The Open Door Shelter, said, "The leadership these students demonstrate for the good of community is inspiring. Working together, they develop the race details and promote helping others in need. It is truly a community collaborative to make a difference."

Race day registration opens at 10:30 a.m. on November 19, and the race starts at 11:30 a.m. The event pre-registration fee is $25 and increases to $30 on the day of the event. Students are selling Turkey Trot shirts and hats, and any small donations are also welcome. The walk and run will take place rain or shine. Students can use this event to earn community service hours. Clothing donations are also being accepted, including adults’ and children’s coats, gloves, hats, scarves, and blankets.

To register online for this year’s New Canaan Turkey Trot, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/CT/NewCanaan/NewCanaanTurkeyTrot.

If you cannot attend but would still like to contribute, please make a check payable to The Open Door Shelter and send to 4 Merritt Street, Norwalk, CT 06854 or visit http://weblink.donorperfect.com/opendoorshelter.

Photo courtesy of Open Door Shelter