LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — The month of November means it's time for Thanksgiving and the annual Turkey Trot 5K Run. Hosted by Lafayette Urban Ministry, the race gives participants the chance to exercise and also help the community. 

Due to COVID-19, race organizers have modified how the race will take place. 

Turkey Trot Program Director, Josh Prokopy, says they have been working closely with the Tippecanoe County Health Department to make the race safe. 

"Normally it's just a big open race with as many people that want to sign-up," said Prokopy. "We usually have active registration going on the day of the race."

Registration will no longer be open on the morning of the race. Runners are required to register ahead of time. 

For those who would like to participate in-person, a social contract will need to be signed. 

"Everyone signs a social contract when they register saying they're going to wear a mask, except when they're running, " said Prokopsy. "Also staying 6 feet apart, except when they're running, and they won't come if they are sick and we'll do temperature checks."

This year the in-person race is limited to 250 runners. The runners will be divided into groups with specific start times.

"They will be broken into five different starting times with 50 runners each," said Prokopy. 

LUM is also giving runners a virtual option to complete the race. 

"We're also doing a virtual race using an app called 'It's Your Race', so people have two options," said Prokopy. 

Prokopy said the virtual option gives runners a little more freedom.

"You can go out and run the race anytime from when you register until the end of the day on Thanksgiving," said Prokopy. "With the virtual set up you can just do it however you want to do it." 

Prokopy said even during these challenging times with the COVID-19 pandemic, he's pleased with the response from the community so far. 

"We've had a very good response in terms of sponsorship," said Prokopy. "We've actually broken our sponsorship record."

The proceeds from the race will benefit multiple programs LUM offers. 

You can find more information about the Turkey Trot and registration on the Turkey Trot website.