Start your Thanksgiving off with Greensburg's annual Turkey Trot

For nearly three decades, determined walkers and runners have laced up their sneakers and headed out on Thanksgiving Day morning to take on the streets of downtown Greensburg, before they take on Thanksgiving dinner.

The 28th annual Greensburg 5K Turkey Trot, sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters Laurel Region, will begin at 9 a.m. for runners and 9:05 a.m. for walkers on Nov. 28.

“We are the financial head of it,” says Stephanie Babich Mihleder, BBBS executive director.

“Over 65 percent of our budget comes from fundraisers, so it’s vital to continuing our mission. We are super appreciative and it’s very impactful,” Mihleder says.

The nonprofit is one of several race beneficiaries, including NEADS Service Dogs for Veterans, which receives the entry fee for dogs trotting with their owners.

Carol Palcic is in her 23rd year as race coordinator. “We try to keep all of the money raised local,” she says.

Over the last 27 years, the race has raised $650,000 for nonprofits, before expenses. “We probably average about $40,000 every year,” Palcic says. “Most of the after-party (supplies) are all donated — fruit, cookies. There is a church (whose members) help with water stops. People just show up.”

The race typically attracts 2,000 or more runners/walkers. “We get all ages. There are people with babies bundled up in strollers,” Palcic says.

Kicking off on the corner of Pittsburgh and Main streets, runners complete the 3.1-mile race, ending up behind the Westmoreland County Courthouse for the finish.

Cost is $25 by Nov. 9, $35 after that date. There is a $10 per dog fee, and dogs must be kept on a short leash and start at the back of the race.

”It’s such a nice family event. You show up at 8:30 a.m., go home by 11 a.m. and eat,” Palcic says.

Details: 724-837-6198 or gbgturkeytrot.com