Back on My Feet

I have never been homeless, and I almost certainly never will be.  I was fortunate enough to be born into a family and a situation that offers me a support system that is stronger than most.  I'm lucky to not know what it is like to be homeless.  But clearly it sucks.  And clearly it often involves circumstances that are out of one's control.  I can imagine that it leads to all sorts of emotional issues that make it even tougher to get out of the situation.  

The Charity of the Week is Back on My Feet, a really cool organization that gets homeless folks moving and in the process helps to grow their emotional strength.  To get started, volunteers host early morning (5:30!) runs for folks who rely on local shelters.  Runners meet 3-4 times per week.  After a month, those who have shown dedication to the program (by completing 90% of the runs) move into a phase of next steps that involves jobs training, help with housing, and other skills that build on the momentum of following a running schedule.  Finally, alumni of the program start their own running groups or continue to run and provide support in their existing groups, compounding the group's efforts.  What a great idea and a great organization!  Who would of thought that something as simple as running every morning could make such a difference?  It really can.  

I am happy to support Back on My Feet and happy to send in my donation of $50 to support the folks who get up and run at 5:30 every morning!  If you are interested in supporting as well, you can find a direct link to the donation page, here.  $50 buys a complete set of winter running gear or almost two sets of summer gear.  That's not bad!  What else could these folks buy if a few others chip in as well? If you do decide to support Back on My Feet, let me know in the comments below!

Happy Sunday, everyone!  -grant