Chicopee Chamber Hosts Sixth Annual Thriller 5K Race

The local community race benefits the Foundation for TJO Animals through registration proceeds and pet food donations.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration of tied athletic shoelaces on pavement, representing a community footrace event. — The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce held its sixth annual Thriller 5K race this Saturday, raising funds and gathering food donations for the Foundation for TJO Animals. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce held its annual Thriller 5K race this past Saturday to raise funds for a local nonprofit. The event, which is in its sixth year, donated half of its proceeds to support homeless animals.

Why it matters

The race serves as a community effort to fund essential veterinary care for animals in need. By supporting a local nonprofit, the chamber helps address immediate medical requirements and service gaps in the regional animal care system.

The Thriller 5K marks its 6th annual edition this year. The event allocates 50% of all race proceeds directly to the Foundation for TJO Animals.

The players

Chicopee Chamber of Commerce

This business association acts as the primary organizer of the annual race and leads the selection process for local charitable beneficiaries.

Foundation for TJO Animals

This local nonprofit provides veterinary care and support services for homeless animals and was the designated beneficiary of this year's event.

The details

Chamber members select the race beneficiary by nominating and voting on local nonprofits during their meetings, with the top-rated organization receiving the designation. Participants also contributed physical pet food donations, which were collected at a designated point near Grise Funeral Home.

The Thriller 5K took place on the morning of Saturday, October 31, 2026.

Market Landscape

The event follows a pattern set by the chamber of commerce community-led nonprofit selection model. This approach allows local business associations to direct regional philanthropic capital into targeted municipal projects.

Residents can support the foundation throughout the year by donating supplies at community collection points. The funds raised will help finance an upcoming clinic expansion and new spay and neuter services.

The takeaway

Supporting local nonprofit races provides a direct way for residents to fund essential community services like veterinary care. Participants are encouraged to keep an eye on future race calendars to continue supporting regional animal welfare projects.