Turket Trot
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    Thanksgiving Day Trot Against Poverty 5K

    Thursday, November 26, 2026 - Riverside Park, Vero Beach

    The wildly popular Trot Against Poverty 5K is back for its 19th year. This is a professionally-timed race for runners, joggers and walkers of all ages and abilities. Trot is more than a healthy start to your holiday…it’s also an unforgettable way to give back while you give thanks!

    The goal of this community-based event is to raise funds and awareness for the nonprofit United Against Poverty, whose mission is to inspire and empower people living in poverty to lift themselves and their families to economic self-sufficiency.

     

    Meet the Event Director - Allison Jackson

    Event Director, Allison

    Allison is the Development Manager at United Against Poverty and newly married to her husband, John! A proud mom to her kids and their three cats, Levi, Mr. Nimbus, and Amelia, she grew up in Sebastian after moving from Massachusetts at age three. Allison has been part of the Turkey Trot team for 13 years and is directing the race for her fifth year. Surrounded by runners in her family, this event holds a special place in her heart. When she’s not planning events, you’ll find her tackling DIY projects or spending time with family in Sebastian and Tennessee. Allison has always been surrounded by running events as her older brothers and nephews are avid runners. She loves seeing the families who have made this event a part of their Thanksgiving tradition. Allison is excited to see Turkey Trot grow year after year with her amazing team.

     

    Meet the Assistant Event Director - Jackie Jennings

    Assistant Event Director, Jackie

    Jackie serves as the Assistant Event Director for this year’s Turkey Trot and is proud to be part of the tradition for her third year with United Against Poverty. Originally from New Jersey, she later relocated to South Florida, where she earned her B.A. from Florida Atlantic University. Her professional path has spanned education, sales, and the nonprofit sector, equipping her with a strong blend of organization, adaptability, and purpose-driven work. Jackie is passionate about planning events that create meaningful community impact. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, gardening, and traveling with her family.

     

    25ft Turkey Tom - Sponsorship Opportunity is Available.

    Turkey Tom

     

    Make a Difference

    This year, we will have peer-to-peer fundraising for our 19th Annual Trot Against Poverty 5K that will benefit United Against Poverty's programs. UAP provides the following programs: Member Share Grocery Programs (MSGP): a dignified food and household assistance program where you can personally select the nutritious food items your family needs. Crisis Stabilization Program: provides support for those facing instability in their lives. Success Training Employment Program (STEP): a workforce development program dedicated to enhancing job-readiness skills. The Build UP program: a 3-phase program providing hands-on training and skills to secure in-demand, high paying employment in the growing trades, construction and manufacturing fields. Create a fundraising team and make a difference in our community by helping UPlift our neighbors in need. United Against Poverty of Indian River County's purpose is to inspire and empower people living in poverty to lift themselves and their families to economic self-sufficiency.

     

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    Event Schedule

    November 26

    Registration Details

    Packet Pick Up

    Packets can be picked up on race day at the Packet Pick-Up Pavilion in Riverside Park.

    How to Participate

    Trot logo

    2026 Race Route

    2026 Turkey Trot Race Map


    2025 Commemorative Race T-Shirt

    2025 Trot Against Poverty Event T-Shirt


    2025 Commemorative Winners Medal

    2025 Trot Against Poverty Winners Medals


    Become a Sponsor

    Award medal sponsorships are available.

    Bib

    Race Bib and Timing Chip

    Become a Sponsor

    Your business name or logo on each race bib!

    sweet potato pancakes

    Sweet Potato Pancake Breakfast
    After you cross the finish line, celebrate with Marsh Landing Restaurant’s sweet potato pancake breakfast prepared by Saussie Pig and quench your thirst with Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice!

    United Against Poverty

    Your participation in this race is a chance to be a voice for the 56% of Indian River County households who struggle to afford basic necessities*. All funds raised from sponsorships, registration fees and participant fundraising pages will benefit United Against Poverty. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty for Treasure Coast families.

    *Source: 2024 United Way ALICE Project Report



    UP kids