The Turkey Trot & Fall Fest is Rotary Burlington North’s most popular event and significant fundraiser. Dan Dubreuil, Co-Chair of the Turkey Trot Organizing Committee is anticipating a strong turnout this year. He says, “The Turkey Trot generates the most income for the Rotary Burlington North Foundation and is our signature event. It’s going to be bigger and better than ever. It will be a great day in the park for families.”
Last year, 350 walkers and runners registered and this year they expect to double that number. There are four events, a 5K and 10K Run, a 1K Fun Run, and 5K walk through the park for dog lovers who want to bring the family pooch along.
Trails & Tails 5K Walk
For the first time ever, dog lovers are encouraged to bring their pets to the “Trails & Tails 5K Walk.”
It’s a dog-friendly route that invites families and friends to explore beautiful Bronte Creek Provincial Park. You can stay on the gravel path or venture down a forest trail to lose yourself in nature for the day. The fall colours in mid-October will be brilliant. Bronte Creek Provincial Park also has a leash-free trail where dogs can play. There are water stations for both dogs and their owners. You can enjoy the day while raising money for a good cause.
Food4Kids Halton
This year, Rotary Burlington North is raising money for Food4Kids Halton, a charity focused on providing nutritious food for school-aged children whose families are experiencing food insecurity. Dubreuil says, “Unfortunately, there’s a growing demand for foodbanks in our community. Food4Kids Halton focuses its support on households that have children in elementary and middle school.”
Each week, children with limited or no access to food over the weekend are provided food, which they bring home to their families. Dubreuil says, “It’s similar to a foodbank in many ways, except the food is delivered to children through participating schools. Their classmates are not aware of the extra support being given.” When school isn’t in session, support continues to families through the distribution of grocery gift cards.
Over the past 25 years, Rotary Burlington North has raised over $1.7 million to help those in need in Halton. The club tends to support charities that address homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health and well-being. Club members also believe in nurturing the development of tomorrow’s leaders by offering youth educational experience and college bursaries. Members of the club have a special interest in helping people in the developing world by sponsoring aid and development projects in Central America and the Caribbean.
Get Ready for Race Day
You can register for the race online here. You can also make pledges on the same site. Rotary Burlington North’s fundraising goal this year is $10,000 for Food4Kids Halton.
- 10K and 5K runs start at 11am
- 1K Fun Run begins at 12:30pm
- 5K Trails & Tails Walk starts at 1:30pm
Family friendly activities
For everyone who is not racing on October 15th there will still be a lot to do in the park. There will be a Kid Zone with an inflatable play structure, face painting, a crafts table, and more. Adults can shop at the Makers’ Market where vendors will be selling their homemade goods, crafts, and food.
The pancake breakfast begins at 9am and runs until noon. Mascot, Turkey Tim will be on site for fun and photos. You can also explore Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s other attractions, including the Nature Centre, Spruce Lane Farmhouse, Play Barn, and the Animal Barn which houses various farm animals.
For more information visit the Rotary Turkey Trot site, Rotary Burlington North online or visit them on Facebook.
