The Extra Mile
Beyond the Finish Line: Turning Miles Into Impact
Go the Extra Mile by engaging one or more of the issues you ran for.
You’ve run the miles—now turn them into meaningful impact. The Arlington Turkey Trot’s Extra Mile program invites you to go beyond the finish line by standing with our community on issues like homelessness, poverty, domestic violence, eating disorders, animal welfare, and criminal justice reform. Join one or more free follow-on events hosted by partner churches, hear from our 10 nonprofit beneficiaries, and discover how you can create lasting change for Arlington neighbors in need.
Crossing the finish line is just the beginning. Through the Extra Mile program, Turkey Trot participants can take real action on the causes they ran for—whether it’s supporting families experiencing homelessness, preventing domestic abuse, advocating for youth, or strengthening disability inclusion. By joining these follow-on events, you’ll connect with nonprofits, learn practical ways to get involved, and help build a stronger, safer Arlington. This initiative empowers runners to turn their race into real impact on critical local issues. By engaging with our nonprofit partners at follow-on events, you’ll be equipped to serve, advocate, and invest in a more compassionate Arlington community.
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Caring For Adults With Intellectual Disabilities
Sunday, February 15, 2026 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Far too often, people with intellectual disabilities are not seen or valued in the same way others are, and thus can feel isolated and lonely. Leaders from L’Arche will guide us in the importance of building connections that create meaningful relationships for everyone–something we all need. The seminar will include a screening of the short film, “On Loneliness.”
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Caring For Youth With Disabilities
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Teenagers with physical or intellectual disabilities struggle to belong, and their families often feel isolated as well. Leaders from Young Life Capernaum will help participants understand and address challenges, so that disabled youth can develop meaningful friendships and grow as whole people.
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Addressing Homelessness
Saturday, March 14, 2026 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
What can we do for the hundreds of Arlington residents who lack a safe place to call home? Leaders from PathForward, Bridges to Independence, and Doorways will explore issues like understanding the causes of homelessness, addressing abuse and addiction, relating to family members, and providing meaningful pathways to wholeness.
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Addressing Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Victims of domestic violence need courage and support to escape an abusive situation–but they need more than a safe place to live. Leaders from Doorways will inform participants of the conditions of domestic violence in Arlington, and how we can come alongside victims with compassion, treatment and community to rebuild their lives.
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Reforming Criminal Justice
Thursday, April 30, 2026
How can we improve our criminal justice system, equitably addressing the needs of both victims and offenders? Leaders from Offender Aid & Restoration and the Center for Youth & Family Advocacy will explore issues like restorative justice, alternative sentencing and re-entering society.
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Helping Impoverished Neighbors Thrive
Date TBD
When a person encounters a personal crisis, they often need to rely on a safety net of relationships and resources. But more than emergency food or rental assistance is needed, so they don’t become trapped in dependence. Leaders from Arlington Thrive will share how to help vulnerable neighbors remain secure in their homes, access childcare, and plan for a brighter future. A Thrive client will offer a firsthand perspective on the impact of these services. Afterward, attendees will assemble 250 health and hygiene kits, providing local families with essentials not covered by SNAP benefits.
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Encouraging and Empowering Youth
Date TBD
Thousands of youth in Arlington are growing up in underserved contexts, and many have already had encounters with the legal system. Without a different trajectory, these youth are at-risk of missing the opportunities, resources and relationships they need to thrive. Leaders from Bridges to Independence and the Center for Youth & Family Advocacy will educate and equip participants on proven strategies to help our youth reach their full potential.
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Animal Welfare
Friday, May 15, 2026 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Household pets are an important part of our community, making thousands of homes feel more complete. Yet due to neglect or abuse, many pets are in need of foster care or adoption. Learn from experts at the Animal Welfare League how you can care for our furry friends–whether or not you rescue a pet. During this event, children in our afterschool program will participate in the Animal Welfare League’s “Paws And Read” program, where kids improve their literacy skills by reading to pets.
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Addressing Eating Disorders
Sunday, May 17, 2026 12:30-2:00 PM
More than 28 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime, yet less than 20% of those who struggle will access care. Join leaders from Rock Recovery as we explore the underlying issues and life-changing treatments that will help ensure no one faces this struggle alone.
