The benefits of distance running are many. It gives participants exercise and fresh air, which lead to better health. It gives a sense of accomplishment and a way for adults, especially, to participate in a competitive sport when there are few opportunities available past high school.

The list of benefits could go on. But perhaps one of the best things about running is that it is an attractive way for many non-profit organizations to raise money.

Many organizations in Hampton Roads have increasingly caught on to this fact in recent years, and the running scene has exploded with ever more popular events. Some of the ones in Suffolk have remained smaller, and there’s a benefit to that, too.

The Suffolk Partnership for a Healthy Community’s Suffolk on the Move program sponsors two events every year for the purpose of encouraging Suffolkians to become healthier and more active. It’s an excellent way to achieve this goal, especially since the group charges no entry fee in an effort to encourage participation as much as possible. It doesn’t make money for the organization, but it saves us all money in the long run because a healthy community spends less on health care and is more productive.

On the fund-raising side, however, the Riverfront Swim Club is approaching its 12th year of hosting the Turkey Trot 5K Run and Walk, which will happen Nov. 14 at 9 a.m. The event benefits the Suffolk Humane Society with 100 percent of proceeds going toward its goals.

Last year’s event attracted more than 170 people and raised more than $4,000. This year’s event has already raised $4,400 through sponsorships and donations, proving the effectiveness of events like these.

We encourage all those who are able to come out to the event and support the humane society, whether you run or walk it with or without a dog, volunteer, donate or just cheer on the runners.

The registration fee for adults is $18 before race day and $20 on race day. For children, the fee is $15 before race day and $17 on race day. The event will take place rain or shine, and will start and finish at the Swim Club, located at 5301 Sports Club Run.

There are seven age divisions, and a 1K Gobbler Run for children 12 and under will also be held.

Dogs are allowed to participate as well as long as they remain leashed.