Running for a Cause: The Turkey Trot Returns, Taking to the Streets for Those Who Live on the Streets

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The 12th annual Turkey Trot Los Angeles on Thursday, Nov. 28, in front of Los Angeles City Hall, will benefit Midnight Mission.

It might seem obvious, but Thanksgiving is about giving thanks. Many have plenty to appreciate, but some have lost direction. The Midnight Mission, founded 110 years ago in Los Angeles, offers a path to self-sufficiency to those who need help getting back on track.

The 12th annual Turkey Trot Los Angeles on Thursday, Nov. 28, in front of Los Angeles City Hall, will benefit Midnight Mission. The goal is to raise $100,000 in 2024, surpassing $400,000 over the past years. It receives support from UAE USA United, community sponsors and participating team fundraising.

“We do everything that we can to make a difference,” said Michelle Lindner, Generic Events co-founder. “The Midnight Mission is the oldest nonprofit in Los Angeles. It’s such a worthwhile cause.”

“The Midnight Mission helps people regain self-sufficiency and combat the issues surrounding homelessness. Gratitude in action helps create bridges to significant transformation.”

Participants in the Turkey Trot, with 5K and 10K routes, will help the cause. Thousands of runners and walkers of all skill levels will participate. Many will be dressed for the event. Runners have dressed as Thanksgiving turkeys, pilgrims and pies.

“People come out and have fun,” Lindner said. “That’s what this is about. It’s a fun event before the big Thanksgiving dinner.”

A new addition is the pre-race event, a Thanksgiving Expo on Wednesday, Nov. 27, at Grand Park from noon to 5 p.m. The festivities will include a craft station sponsored by BAZIC Products for children and families. Crafts will consist of an assortment of coloring activities. There will be giveaways and sampling while participants pick up their race bibs and T-shirts.

“We’re expecting the biggest ever Turkey Trot,” Lindner said. “We’re expecting about 7,000 participants.”

But it’s all about being thankful and giving back — so the focus is on Midnight Mission. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with UAE, USA United and Generic Events for this year’s Turkey Trot,” Midnight Mission President & CEO David Prentice said. “The Midnight Mission helps people regain self-sufficiency and combat the issues surrounding homelessness. Gratitude in action helps create bridges to significant transformation. “We are honored to align with these extraordinary groups to raise awareness for people living on our streets who are hungry and without a home.”

Turkey Trot Los Angeles
WHEN: 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 28
WHERE: Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N. Spring Street, LA
COST: $53.84
INFO: turkeytrot.la

The vast majority of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, but their traditions vary widely