It may have been cold and dreary, but weather was not going to stop runners of all ages from gobbling up the chance to participate in the annual Porter-Starke Services Turkey Trot 5k. Since 2010, Porter-Starke Services has hosted the run with event proceeds benefiting programs that provide infant essentials, child health and fitness activities, transportation to medical appointments, and much more.
“It is our largest fundraiser every year,” said Elliot Miller, Director of Marketing and Development for Porter-Starke.
For Miller, this year meant more than those past.
“This year is meaningful to me just because we didn’t have it last year,” said Miller.
Chuck Harris, foundation board member, echoed Miller. Every year he leads runners on his motorcycle.
“It’s tradition. I look forward to this every year. This is probably my favorite one after having it taken away for a year,” said Harris. "I didn't realize how much I missed it. I took it for granted for a lot of years. It has made me realize that much more the importance of it.”
Donna Trathen, Director of Medical Records, volunteered to hand out water. After running in the event years past, Trathen knew the difference volunteers make. She recruited her grandson Dylan Trathen, a Purdue University student, to assist as well.
“I like to see everyone and see all the finishers,” said Dylan.
Betsy Riley has volunteered the past eight years. The retiree spends her weekends working at the Porter-Starke Methadone Clinic.
“It’s a way of giving back,” said Riley. “The people are willing to help each other.”
“It’s our biggest fundraiser to help the clients, help the community. It helps continue the programs,” said Lavonne Yaros who works in Porter-Starke Medical billing. She too was spending her Thanksgiving morning in the volunteer role.
Robyn Werberig, a 20-year Porter-Starke Services employee, was hustling about before the race.
“It is an awesome event for us to support health and wellness in Northwest Indiana. To me this is the perfect day to work hard in honor of our clients and the people that we serve,” said Werberig.
Sporting Thanksgiving day apparel, runners and walkers gathered at the starting line motivated by a multitude of reasons.
Sophia Maldonado, 12, is a cross country and track runner. The Colonel John Wheeler runner was taking advantage of the race to keep up her training.
“I haven’t been running in awhile so I wanted to keep on track,” said Maldonado.
Sarah Glassmeyer was walking with her father Joe Glassmeyer. Since 2012, the duo have made it a tradition to participate in Turkey Trot.
“I really like to support Porter-Starke. Mental health is really important and trying to get more funding for that is really necessary,” said Glassmeyer. “Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I have a very lucky life so I like to always take a moment of gratitude.”
“We are very appreciative of our very generous community,” said Miller.
For more information on Porter-Starke and their services, visit https://www.porterstarke.org/.
