In 2007, Anne Mahlum took a morning run through the streets of Philadelphia that would go on to change countless lives. What began as a personal routine became a powerful idea: what if running could be more than exercise—what if it could be a path to self-worth, purpose, and transformation for those experiencing homelessness? That spark of inspiration lit the fire that became Back on My Feet.
Anne didn’t just see people standing on street corners, she saw potential. She believed that with the right support, encouragement, and structure, individuals experiencing homelessness could rewrite the stories of their lives. And she was right.
From that first run with a small group of shelter residents, Anne built an organization that has grown into a national movement. Under her leadership, Back on My Feet expanded across major U.S. cities, combining community support with access to employment and housing resources. Thousands of members have moved their lives forward thanks to the model Anne created, one built on dignity, community, and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance.
Anne’s work with Back on My Feet is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: we are all capable of greatness when someone believes in us. Her passion for helping others realize their potential is not just inspiring – it’s transformative.
A dynamic entrepreneur and motivational speaker, Anne has continued to create meaningful change beyond Back on My Feet. But the legacy she started here continues every day, in every early-morning run, every job interview, every story of resilience and hope.
Back on My Feet was born from Anne’s courage to act on a bold idea—and her unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit.
