Turkey Trot raises $100,000 for homeless services in North County
Thanksgiving Turkey Trot supports housing, meals for hundreds
– More than 1,000 participants gathered Thanksgiving morning at Atascadero Lake Park for the annual Turkey Trot hosted by the El Camino Homeless Organization. The event, which has become a local holiday tradition, raised over $100,000 to support programs addressing homelessness in North County.
Proceeds will benefit the organization’s emergency shelter, meal programs, and services that help individuals and families transition into stable housing. A matching donor doubled every dollar raised, amplifying the impact of community contributions.
This year’s top finishers were Johnathan Dolan with a time of 18:47 and Brianna Calvert, who completed the course in 23:52. Other notable results included Triston Ioppini at 20:12, Carolyn McGaughey at 27:12, Adam McClair at 21:16, and Selena Trejo, who also finished at 27:12.
“These outstanding participants remind us of the energy and dedication within our community,” said Wendy Lewis, the organization’s CEO. “Their efforts, along with everyone who joined us, help make our work possible.”
The organization expressed gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the event’s success. Lewis noted that, thanks to community support, the organization has helped 311 individuals and families secure stable housing this year.
The organization encourages attendees to share photos from the event on social media and tag the organization to help raise awareness of its work.
The organization is also seeking volunteers to assist with its programs during the holiday season. Opportunities include serving meals, organizing donations, and helping with holiday events. Information about volunteering is available at echoshelter.org.
Since its founding in 2001, the organization has provided food, shelter, and supportive services to individuals and families throughout San Luis Obispo County. It operates two facilities, a 60-bed shelter in Atascadero and a 70-bed shelter in Paso Robles, along with daily community dinner and shower programs.
