Free Thankful 5K Run & Fundraiser Returns This Thanksgiving

For the third year in a row Kent and Shiobbean Lemme, owners of Berkshire Running Center, are hosting a Free Thankful 5K Community Run/Walk and Fundraiser, Thanksgiving morning.  In their words, it's "a time to pay it forward and give a little back".

Not only is this run a great way to have some fun with family and friends, not to mention burn a few calories before you crush a Thanksgiving meal, but the race doubles as a fundraiser for Autism Connections and the South Congregational Church Food Bank.

The race is free to enter, but if you'd like to make a donation of 25 dollars, you'll receive a Technical 'Thankful' race shirt. 100% of the proceeds will go to Autism Connections, an organizations that provides support, information, and practical help for children and adults with autism, as well as their families, friends and professionals throughout Berkshire County and other areas of Western Massachusetts. In addition to the shirts this year, BRC will be taking pre orders for homemade pies (choice of Apple, Pumpkin or Cherry) perfect to bring home for your Thanksgiving meal. Pies are just ten dollars each with all proceeds going to Autism Connections as well.

The race kicks of at 8 a.m. and there is no race day registration, however you can sign up in store or online before 5 pm on Wednesday, Nov. 21 to participate. Online you can also request a shirt and pre order a pie of your choice. Day of the race, Berkshire Running Center asks that you bring a non-perishable food item (suggestions include peanut butter, canned tuna or pasta) to donate to the South Congregational Church Food Pantry. Last year they donated over 300 lbs of from race day donations.

Gather up a group of family and friends start your Thanksgiving celebrations off in the right way, by giving back to the community and your health!