Thursday, April 3, 2008

Back On My Feet

I just read a very interesting article about Anne Mahlum and the charity she's founded, Back On My Feet. The organization uses running to help homeless people in Philadelphia to get, well, back on their feet. An excerpt from the article:

"Requirements for shelter residents to join are simple -- they must live in an affiliated facility and be clean and sober for 30 days. Members receive new shoes and running clothes, and teams run together three times a week between 5:30 and 6 a.m.
...
Back On My Feet also has a job training program for a partner. Three members are taking classes, learning computer and interview skills, while three others have found jobs."

Wow! I am blown away by the concept and very intrigued. I've always felt that running is a great way to build self-esteem and to learn how to stay focused. Running is a huge part of my life and, I am certain, the backbone to the successes I have had away from the trail.

Again, I'm intrigued, and I'm gonna look more into this charity.

'Back On My Feet' after a recent 5k.

2 comments:

Gotta Run..... said...

That is truly an inpiring story!!! I am doing a charity ride for the first time this weekend. Feels good to be raising money for a good cause.

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