UTICA, N.Y. -- Every year, thousands come out to raise money for the American Heart Association in Utica.
It's almost time for America's Greatest Heart Run and Walk and the "Healthy for Good Expo" taking place the day before.
"When you talk about an event like this in the community of Utica that is economically challenged, I would say it's just amazing what the community does," said America's Greatest Heart Run and Walk Director Jim Stasaitis.
This year, participants can expect a new event and some changes.
"We have a kids event and it's going to be in the evening after the expo, actually, but you can register for the 'Kids Heart Challenge," said Stasaitis.
The challenge is happening at Valley Gymnastics.
Stasaitis said there will also be additional parking for the expo at 125 Business Park Drive in Utica, and at the Ramada in New Hartford.
"We've got ample room for more parking," said Stasaitis. "It's a little bit further away, but like I said, we're going to have a shuttle service running constantly. You might have to wait 15 minutes or so, so be ready for that."
Runners will also have a new route, beginning and ending at Utica College.
"Half of the course will still be the same because they'll still be coming up 'Heartbreak Hill' and finishing here at the college like they used to. The start will be different. It will be the exact same route as the three mile and five mile walk," said Stasaitis.
The participants share a common goal: to raise money for a good cause.
"Everybody comes together. It's great standing up at the start line and just seeing all of the families and everybody. The colors, the team, everything, they're all united against this fight," said Stasaitis.
The expo is taking place on March 3 at Utica College.
The America's Greatest Heart Run and Walk starts on the morning of March 4 at Utica College.
If anyone would like to register to participate or donate to the cause, they can visit their website.