Thanksgiving with a Purpose: The Animal Rescue Corps' Annual Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run
As Thanksgiving approaches, communities come together to celebrate gratitude, family, and friendship. However, a special event is poised to bring even more joy and purpose to the holiday season: the annual Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run, hosted by the Animal Rescue Corps (ARC). Taking place on November 27 at Two Rivers Ford in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, this beloved event combines family fun with a heartfelt mission.
A Run to Remember
The Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run, previously known as the Turkey Trot, is a perfect way to kick off the holiday festivities. The day begins early at 8 a.m. with a one-mile Family Fun Run, followed by a 5K Rescue Run. This year marks the event's continuation as a tribute to Tommy Crockett, the esteemed general manager of Two Rivers Ford who passed away in 2021. His legacy as a mentor and friend continues to inspire participants and organizers alike.
ARC Executive Director Tim Woodward emphasizes the importance of this event, noting, "This family-friendly occasion embraces the season of gratitude, uniting the community in support of a worthy cause. Every step participants take helps save lives by raising funds that directly support ARC's animal rescue operations and educational outreach programs."
Supporting a Life-Saving Mission
By participating in the Rescue Run, individuals and families not only enjoy a day filled with fun and exercise but also contribute to an essential cause. ARC has made significant strides in animal rescue since its inception in 2010, regularly partnering with law enforcement to rescue animals from dire situations, including abuse, neglect, and natural disasters.
In September alone, ARC managed to rescue close to 200 dogs and puppies from five separate missions in Tennessee and Oklahoma. The organization’s hands-on approach ensures that animals receive the necessary medical care, rehabilitation, and placement through trusted shelters and adoption partners. Woodward highlights the urgency of their work: "Your average shelter is used to taking in one or two animals at a time. At Animal Rescue Corps, we're responding to crisis situations that often involve dozens of animals who need immediate medical care. The funds raised through events like the Rescue Run allow us to answer the call whenever animals need help."
Community Partnerships and Appreciation
The event is proudly supported by local businesses, including Two Rivers Ford, Guardian Sound Emporium Studios, Companion Pets of Purpose, and Dog Training Elite of Greater Nashville, among others. Tammy Jacobs, marketing director of Two Rivers Ford, proudly states, "We're thrilled to host the Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run again this Thanksgiving. It's such a wonderful way to kick off the holidays with family, friends, pets, and a bit of get-up-and-go! We can't wait to see you there."
With a focus on cherished community values and a passion for animal welfare, the Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run offers more than just a race; it provides a platform for camaraderie and compassion.
Get Involved
Registration for the event is now open. Participants who register before November 11 will receive a commemorative T-shirt, and the top finishers in both male and female categories will be recognized with medals. The event welcomes spectators, and strollers and leashed, well-behaved dogs are encouraged.
This Thanksgiving, join ARC in making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable animals while enjoying a day of fun and community bonding. For more details about the Rescue Run, sponsorship opportunities, or to donate to ARC’s mission, visit
Animal Rescue Corps. Together, we can inspire the highest ethical standards of humanity towards animals and leave a lasting impact in our communities.