Local Race Promoter and Charity Working Together to Help the Homeless
Planet Adventure, the Indianapolis-based endurance event promoter, donated $750 Thursday to the local chapter of Back on My Feet, a charity that uses running as a means to improve the lives of area homeless. The donation accounts for half of all entry fees for its recent New Year's Eve 5k:Acts of '5K'indness Masquerace.
The event and subsequent donation was the latest in a
burgeoning relationship between the race promoter and the nonprofit that began
with the Eagle Creek Trail Marathon in June. Planet Adventure donated bibs for
Back on My Feet runners to participate in the race; and in exchange, Back on My
Feet provided volunteer support throughout the event.
“Planet Adventure is well known in the racing community, so
it makes sense to be working together,” said Beth Olson, the charity’s
executive director. “Their support is greatly appreciated, especially during this
challenging economic climate.”
Originally established in 2007 in Philadelphia, Back on My
Feet launched its Indianapolis branch in March 2011. The organization uses
running as a way to foster healthy behavior changes among the 25 or so homeless
participants and offers financial assistance to those runners who attend
financial-literacy and job-training classes. Local retailer Blue Mile donates
brand-new running shoes to each participant.
“Participating in the races gives our runners a chance to
build camaraderie among themselves and the other runners and volunteers,” Olson
said. “It raises their self-esteem and confidence and shows them they’re
capable of doing great things.”
In less than a year, several runners have already graduated
from the program, leaving behind the homeless shelters for new jobs and homes,
Olson said.
“The Planet Adventure team takes pride in providing the best
possible racer experience for individuals of all athletic abilities,” said
Planet Adventure’s Hope Martin. “It is
important to us that we share that same sense of pride and accomplishment
amongst our community by giving back. Back on My Feet is an organization that
supports those values as well; we couldn't be more honored to partner with
them.”
By Robert Annis For Planet Adventure