By Anna Skinner
The Runners Forum, a Broadripple-based running store, has announced their partnership with Back on My Feet, a national nonprofit organization that uses running to help people experiencing homelessness.
Angie Smitherman, a Westfield public works administrative manager, has volunteered with Back on My Feet for two years. She first encountered Back on My Feet while attending a race at Marian University. She saw the name of the organization on the shirts at the race and got involved.
“It’s not a matter of hand outs, it’s a matter of helping people help themselves,” Smitherman said. “And that’s exactly what the organization is about, and I knew I had to be a part of it.”
Through the partnership, The Runners Forum will be able to offer expert shoe fitting services to the residents of Back on My Feet, along with appreciation events, volunteer discounts, running form and distance training for participants and event support.
“Being involved in helping support the needs of the community is an important part of our mission as a locally owned business,” said Michael Smith, co-owner of The Runners Forum. “Seeing how running helps make a positive impact in the lives of the program’s participants is rewarding.”
Back on My Feet is year-round, three mornings a week. They also have races and events that the Runner’s Forum will assist with. Runs last between 30 and 45 minutes. They have different teams ranging from beginners to advanced runners.
There are ways, other than being a volunteer with the organization, for people to help, such as assisting with events and races or giving donations.
“It is a wonderful investment, even for volunteers,” Smitherman said. “It’s amazing to hear the success stories … it’s not just about the running. It’s taking people who are not self-sufficient and getting them into society, and that benefits everybody involved.”
