TEXARKANA, Texas -- As summer winds down, one local organization is preparing for the fall.
Community Healthcore has started planning for its 10th annual Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23, at Spring Lake Park. The theme "Huffin' and Puffin' for the Gravy Stuffin'."
"With this being the 10th annual fundraiser, we are hoping to raise $10,000," said Stacey Tidwell, Community Healthcore regional administrator.
The Turkey Trot is a twin event for Community Healthcore, which is based in Longview, Texas. The other is in Longview.
"Participation and/or donation to this event raises essential funds for Community Healthcore programs to help adults, children and families with mental illnesses, substance use disorders and intellectual and developmental disabilities," Tidwell said.
Community Healthcore serves a nine-county area.
The Turkey Trot was started nearly 10 years ago by previous regional administrator Jeanell Cannon, who died in 2022.
"She was very passionate about it, and last year we actually honored her at the Turkey Trot," Tidwell said. "So, we want to continue to keep this going for as long as we can."
Community Healthcore has served Northeast Texas for more than 50 years. Tidwell said she hopes the Turkey Trot raises awareness of the organization.
"Some people don't realize that the mental health help is here, and it's unfortunate and we want to change that," Tidwell said. "The money raised helps cover nearly 40 programs."
Healthcore Community Core Health Clinic is a primary care clinic that will open to the public Oct. 1. The children's clinic is at 1911 Galleria Oaks.
Turkey Trot registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on race day, with the race starting at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $25, which includes a T-shirt, runner's bib and a swag bag.
For information on donating or signing up for the race, visit Community Healthcore on Facebook.