Turkey Trot adds new way for participants to give back

Sports

Nov 19

Written By Staff

On Thanksgiving morning, runners participating in the 33rd annual Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) Turkey Trot will have the opportunity to support both GRPS scholar-athletes and families in need. For the first time, the GRPS Turkey Trot, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network, will include a community food drive.

Donations of non-perishable food items will be collected on race day in a trailer stationed outside Van Andel Arena, marked by a giant inflatable turkey. Donations will support Grand Rapids families.

“We’re proud that this year’s Turkey Trot gives runners a chance to give back in an even bigger way,” said Misti Stanton, Board President of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation. “Every food donation helps fuel families right here in Grand Rapids, demonstrating the power of this community to rally around one another.”

The GRPS Turkey Trot supports GRPS scholar-athletes. With the goal of promoting fitness and raising funds to offset the costs of GRPS athletics, this family-friendly 5K has become a Thanksgiving staple for Grand Rapids residents.

The Turkey Trot aims to top last year’s record-breaking success, which saw 6,435 participants and raised more than $300,000 for GRPS Athletics through registrations, sponsorships, and donations.

This marks Blue Care Network of Michigan’s 11th year as the presenting sponsor. Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) also returns as Mini Trot sponsor for the fourth straight year, supporting the youngest Turkey Trotters. New for 2025, Mathnasium, a math-only learning center offering personalized tutoring for students in grades K–12, joins as the event’s esteemed Golden Drumstick Sponsor.

To register, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/GRPSThanksgivingDayTurkeyTrot.

West Michigan Newspop Digital Partners