Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield Brings Community Together for Annual Turkey Trot

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
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The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield is preparing for its first-ever Festival Foods Turkey Trot since the club’s opening earlier this year. The Thanksgiving morning event is part of a statewide tradition that raises funds to support local Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs.

A New Chapter for Marshfield Youth
Kaitlyn Konrardy, Director of Community Outreach and a Marshfield native, shared that the local club officially began programming in summer 2025, serving 91 children at Grant Elementary in partnership with the School District of Marshfield’s summer program. Now operating out of Lincoln Elementary, the club serves about 88 students—roughly 30% of the school’s population—with after-school programming that includes homework help, meals, and enrichment activities.

Konrardy said, “We’re engaging kids through STEM projects, healthy lifestyle classes, and community leadership programs. We’re really helping them grow into the best versions of themselves.”

The Goal: A Standalone Club Facility
While the partnership with the school district has been vital, Konrardy noted that the current setup limits access to students outside Lincoln Elementary. “Without a standalone center, we’re not able to serve the entire population,” she said. “Eventually, we want to expand to grades one through twelve and even offer programs for teens focused on workforce readiness and life skills.”

Turkey Trot: Fun, Fitness, and Fundraising
The annual Festival Foods Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning at 8 a.m. at Marshfield High School. Participants can register online at FestivalFoodsTurkeyTrot.com by selecting the Marshfield location. Options include a five-mile timed run, a two-mile fun run or walk, and a “dog jog” for furry friends. Each participant receives a t-shirt, pie, and coupons from Festival Foods.

“All proceeds stay local and benefit the Boys & Girls Club and YMCA of Marshfield,” Konrardy explained. “It’s a fun, family-friendly way to support our youth.”

Beyond the Race: Supporting the Mission Year-Round
The funds raised go toward the club’s annual campaign, helping to cover staffing, programming, and supplies. Membership costs just $100 per child—and $10 for those qualifying for free or reduced lunch—making community donations essential.

Konrardy added that the club always welcomes involvement through volunteering, financial support, or in-kind donations. Items like art supplies, STEM kits, and healthy snack ingredients are high on the wish list, with an Amazon wishlist available at MarshfieldBGC.org.

Building a Stronger Future Together
Local businesses can also support the Boys & Girls Club through sponsorships of programs like “Youth of the Month” or future fundraising events. “We’re building something that’s going to make a lasting impact for Marshfield,” Konrardy said. “It’s an exciting time for our community.”
Residents can stay updated through the club’s Facebook page and by subscribing to their newsletter at MarshfieldBGC.org.

As Konrardy concluded, “It’s about time Marshfield has a Boys & Girls Club—and it’s already making a difference.”
Watch the full interview now on Marshfield Now! Channel 990, streaming on Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and online through Marshfield Broadcasting platforms.

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