The community has the opportunity to help two charitable causes at the same time by participating in the upcoming Sunflower Diversified Services Turkey Trot.
The fourth-annual event is set for Saturday, Nov. 16, at Brit Spaugh Park near the Zoo. Those who bring two non-perishable food items will not only support Sunflower individuals with special needs, they will help add to the shelves of the Community Food Bank of Barton County.
“This is a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and delays, while providing nourishment for those who need a helping hand,” said Cody Harris, Sunflower director of Planned Giving and Community Support. “The Turkey Trot has been popular for the last three years and we hope for a good turnout this time around too.”
The early-bird-registration deadline is Oct. 31; the fee for the 5K race is $30 and Fun Run Race is $25. Both are $5 more after the deadline. Early registrants will receive T-shirts; after Oct. 31, shirts are available while supplies last.
Registration at the event begins at 9:30 a.m. The 5K starts at 10:30 a.m. and the Fun Run one-mile race a few minutes later. It all begins and ends at Brit Spaugh Park.
Those who have donations for the food bank will be entered into a drawing for a Garmin watch.
Age divisions for the 5K are: up to 14; 15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-54; and 55 and older. Medals go to the top three finishers in each division.
The overall male and female winners receive a turkey. Fun run participants earn ribbons.
“This event promises to be a lot of fun,” Harris commented. “You can walk, run or trot for children and adults who rely on Sunflower’s many programs and services, as well as those who need our local food bank.
“We encourage local and area residents to mark this on their calendars. It will be a good reason to get out and get moving for worthy causes at the beginning of the holiday season of giving.” To register, visit Sunflower’s website, www.sunflowerdiv.com. For more information, contact Harris by calling 620-792-1321.
Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 58th year.
