Cross posted from the OC Progressive
We've never met in person, it's that strange online acquaintance from a friend of a friend (and we live in the same city!) but I wanted to share this great story because well, it needed to be shared and I want people I know to support Lisa's effort. If she can run 26.2 miles, we can chip in 26 bucks to her efforts. Who is with me?
My dear friends, family, acquintances, strangers, curious onlookers. As you may (or may not) know, I will be running the ING New York City Marathon this November 7th. As luck would have it, I was not picked in the lottery a spot in the marathon, nor did I qualify for the race. I say "luck" because the only option left for me was to run for charity. Running has added so much to my life: who I am, the amazing friends I've met along the way, not to mention the mental and physical strenghts that have benefitted me. Running for someone else is a gift I'm eager to undertake.
There are dozens upon dozens of charities that I could have chosen from for which to raise funds. But it was inevitable that I chose the non-profit organization "Back on My Feet." The story of the organization is proof that normal people are capable of extraordinary things. Please take a moment to read about the history of the organization and how one individual, Anne Mahlum, used the power of running to make a difference in the lives of people who are largely invisible and shunned members of our society.
As a charity runner, I am committed to raising $4,000 by November 5th. But I cannot do it without some creative thinking, hard work, and the support of my friends and family. In short, to reach my goal, I need your help. Your financial contribution, no matter how large or small, will go towards an organization that has achieved something amazing, if, from a distance, unconventional. But made a difference it has. If you're skeptical, pleaseread the stories of these courageous, heroic, and determined individuals.
I know that these are tough economical times, and I am sure that donating your hard-earned money towards my endeavor is asking a lot. Please know that your contribution would be GREATLY appreciated by me. Every individual who contributes will be in my pocket during my marathon. Literally. I will write your name on a piece of paper and bring you along for 26.2 miles. And you won't need to pay airfare OR hotel accommodations. ;)
To donate, please go to the folling link: http://www.active.com/...
Regards and many thanks,
Lisa
Here is some more information about Back on My Feet:
Back on My Feet is a non-profit organization that promotes the self-sufficiency of Philadelphia's homeless population by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem.
Back on My Feet envisions a community where all members have the support and motivation required to move towards self –sufficiency. Every major city has a homeless problem and while providing food and shelter are very important basic needs, something is missing. We work to rebuild, revive and re-energize individuals. It is only when we have self-respect, self-confidence that we are truly able to move forward. Back on My Feet focuses on helping our members find a road of happiness, hope and opportunity, which includes a stable job and a place to live. This is our goal and we will get there one step at a time.
Back on My Feet does not provide food nor does it provide shelter, but instead provides a community that embraces equality, respect, discipline, teamwork and leadership. There are no labels, no stigmas and no stereotypes. At Back on My Feet, all members – regardless of race, education or socioeconomic status – join together to move their own lives forward as well as the lives of their teammates.
I want to be on that run with Lisa, on her piece of paper, don't you? Right now so many people are struggling to keep life and limb together and we forget that empowering people can be more than a hand out or a hand up, but reminding them that they can do anything if they set their mind to it. Goals that achievable today are a path to goals that are achievable tomorrow.
Thank you Lisa for let us come along on your journey to help so many along their life journey's. I, for one, am honored.