The organization’s mission is not to create runners within the homeless population, but to use running to create self-sufficiency in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. The program’s success is measured by how many Members obtaining independence through employment, job training and housing.
Through dedication and hard work, Residential Members (those experiencing homelessness) earn the opportunity to create a new road for themselves. Running leads to personal transformation and dedication to the program leads to access to training, employment and housing resources. Through community and corporate support, the program strives to change the perception of homelessness.
(Source: Back on My Feet)
Before the race, they led the group with a warm-up and circle-up to get everyone excited to run and support one another. I cannot even begin to explain the supportive environment that there was.
Before I started this morning, I set a goal time range for myself. With having a half marathon less than 11 hours later, it is important to not waste all my energy in the 5K and have burned out legs. Well, I came just 6 seconds faster than that goal time. I am not sure if I paced myself that well or if the hills in the front half kept me held back a bit, but we will just go with my marvelous pacing skills.