Bonfield Express Foundation 5K and Local Turkey Trots Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn, Naperville I went to high school in the early eighties (unfortunate hint toward my age – ssh!). I attended Downers Grove South High School and was blessed to have known Jim Bonfield as a teacher, coach and our dean of students. He was well-liked, always smiling and always encouraging. In October 2003, Jim Bonfield lost his battle with Hodgkin’s Disease, Leukemia and Rheumatoid Arthritis. As his family and friends searched for a way to pay tribute to him, the idea of a Thanksgiving 5K became the favored proposition. It seemed fitting to honor his memory on the morning of his favorite holiday. 2018 will mark the 15th anniversary of the Bonfield Express 5K.
“The Foundation awards several scholarships each year to high school students recognizing those who demonstrate a love of learning, extra effort and/or good citizenship,” says Deborah Hare, Manager, Communications and Marketing for the Bonfield Express Foundation. Over $300,000 in scholarships have been awarded to students at various local high schools as well as additional programs being funded for local grade school students who have a commitment to community. This year’s race begins at 8:30 am on Thanksgiving morning. To register, volunteer or donate, visit them at www.bonfieldexpress.com.
Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trots that help you get a healthy start to your big eating day are popular in our communities. The Naperville Noon Lions Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk starts at 8am, beginning at Naperville Central High School. Proceeds allow the Naperville Noon Lions to help over 4,000 children and families with vision/hearing care and diabetes support. Register at www.napervilleturkeytrot.com
Wheaton community holds their Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk through the Emerson neighborhood including Graf Park and the DuPage County Fairgrounds. Net proceeds go toward Emerson Elementary School, as well as Easterseals of DuPage and Fox Valley. www.raceroster.com/ events/2018/19743/wheaton-il-turkey-trot-5k-runwalk.
Glen Ellyn holds the Turkey Trot Predicto Race - a FREE five-mile run/walk (for those maybe looking for longer than the 5K) at 8:00 am at Lake Ellyn Park. No registration needed. Just show up and sign the race waiver. The Park District and the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry will be on-site to collect non-perishable donations. Last year, participants donated over 800lbs of food! www.gepark.org/events/turkey-trot/.
So, get on out and start your holiday right, support a cause and earn that extra piece of pumpkin pie!
Mindy’s November Giving Inspiration: Donate to the local grocery stores that have programs in November to assist those in need with their holiday meals.
ABOUT THE WRITER Mindy Kyle is the owner of Be Inspired Studios and is passionate about helping people discover what brings them joy and to live a full, healthy and happy life. She has her Masters in Fine Arts degree in creative writing from DePaul University and lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land.
