Mission Statement: 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.
Philosophy: 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. Back on My Feet is much more than just running - it is a comprehensive program that offers connections to job training, educational scholarships and housing assistance. The benefits of Back on My Feet are earned through the currency of attitude, commitment, teamwork, respect, dedication and leadership.
Our Vision - 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 the 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.
How Does Running Help the Homeless? - "...compared with sedentary individuals, active persons are more likely to be better adjusted, to perform better on tests of cognitive functioning, to exhibit reduced cardiovascular responses to stress, and to report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression....Exercise training reduces depression in healthy older men and in persons with cardiac disease or major depression. Exercise also improves self-confidence and self-esteem…” Source: American Heart Association, Inc.
“Back of My Feet is my way of making positive change.
Running is one of the most empowering activities there is because there is no end. There is
always another mile, another road, another right turn. There
is no buzzer and there is no referee. It has taught me so
much about life, especially the simple notion that to get
anywhere, you have to take it one step at a time."
Anne
Mahlum, Founder and President
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