With Thanksgiving approaching, the Lake County YMCA is, once again, inviting community members to lace up their running or walking shoes for its 2024 Turkey Day 5K Run event. Serving the organization’s mission of “giving back,” the affair will begin at 8 a.m. Nov. 28 at the Central Y Branch in Painesville, with check-in starting at 7:30 a.m. Participants can pick up race “bibs” from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov 26, and from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 27. In-person and virtual options are available, officials noted, adding virtual participants can complete the run at any time. Finisher medals are also back this year for all who participate. Additional ways to support the event include shopping at the packet pick-up “Gobble Shop,” where run-themed attire and raffle tickets can be purchased, in addition to general donations. According to officials, Turkey Day 5K proceeds directly support “crucial YMCA programs that transform lives and strengthen the Lake County community.” This year, registration fees contribute to initiatives such as: • Swim Lessons – Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children aged 5 to 14 • VIVs (Very Important Volunteers) – A teen program for youth in grades 7-12, with a focus on servant leadership • Belonging and Engagement: A program connecting participants with seniors who are isolated “When you support the Lake County YMCA Turkey Day 5K, you’re not just running, you’re empowering teens, ensuring children learn to swim, and providing community and belonging for people of all ages,” said Central Y Executive Director Jeff Mottice. “This event allows our community to move for a purpose and kick off the holiday in a meaningful way.” To register, visit lakecountyymca.org or stop by the Central Y at 933 Mentor Ave. Registration ends at 8 a.m. on race day. Since 2011, the Lake County YMCA has welcomed nearly 14,000 runners on Thanksgiving morning — who have run nearly 40,000 miles — and worked with 720 volunteers, giving out more than 300 pumpkin pies and awarding over 350 winners.