Running sneakers hit the pavement along Campus Road in Totowa, all to raise heart rates and money for community organizations.

For six years now, the Board of Recreation has put on the Totowa Turkey Trot 5K race and walk.

"Each year it gets bigger and bigger, and you can see how many people coming out from the community. It's just as much a social event as a little bit of exercise for all of us," said the Mayor of Totowa John Corio.

This year, more than 1,200 people participated in the run/walk. One organization the benefiting from the day’s events is Paterson-based Oasis, a haven for women and children. The group is holding a turkey drive for the second straight year.

"I felt the need to do something about it if I could. I took advantage of the fact that we have so many wonderful people in this town that are looking to help and so I started doing the turkey drive," said organizer Nancy Reynoso.

Those who put on the race say it comes at a good time right before Thanksgiving, a holiday that's all about being grateful.

"Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with family, but it's also a time to help those who are less fortunate...this gives them a little bit more. It gives them a little boost around this holiday season," said Corio.