Ask any fitness expert. They'll tell you exercise has those "magical powers" that make you feel good about yourself.
One group that meets every Wednesday and Saturday mornings can agree to that.
A year ago two avid runners, Elizabeth Rosenblum and Megan Cullip launched a new health and fitness program for guests staying at the Emergency Shelter on Commerce street. The shelter is part of SAMMinistries, a non-profit organization providing programs and services for the homeless. The idea came about after reading an article in Runners' World magazine. The story was about a group of homeless men and women who were transformed inside and out after staying active with a running program. It became an inspiration for both Elizabeth and Megan to continue that journey here in San Antonio.
The two runners had a goal. Get the homeless off the streets, and let running help them get back on their feet. It's now part of their everyday routine. Participants get up early every morning and hit the pavement to run a few miles. Like athletes, they stick to a training schedule. It has been beneficial both physically and mentally. It's appropriately called Street 2 Feet. The program was even more beneficial for Dorene Burnett.
After serving 12 years in prison for arson, Dorene was out on the streets. She had no place to go. She was scared, unsure of what her future held. She spent some time with SAMMinistries. There Dorene learned how to look for a job and live independently. Dorene soon realized her calling was to have her own ministry. She's now a motivational speaker. She met Elizabeth and Megan after finding out about Street 2 Feet.
Today Dorene stays true to the program. She has the discipline of an athlete, training regularly with Street 2 Feet. The group's schedule includes stretching, education in nutrition and hydration, walking and running. Dorene doesn't miss a beat. The same goes for her fellow runners. Right now the total number of participants range from 10 to 25 people. In the last year, there were 50 different individuals who participate. The program has really taken off. As you can imagine, it's changing lives.
This year, Elizabeth and Megan are stepping up their efforts to help SAMMinistries even more. Street 2 Feet is hosting its first ever 5K. It's an event that's really brought the running community together and the subject of homelessness into the spotlight. It's also one of three races that have runners pass by the Alamo. Race for the Cure and the Rock N Roll series are the only other races that run by the historic landmark.
With careful training Street 2 Feet runners from the Emergency Shelter will also be participating. They hope you can too.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 20th. The course starts at the shelter and ends at the future Haven for Hope location. It costs $20 to sign up. The Street 2 Feet 5K Run/Walk and Kidz 1K aims to increase awareness about the homeless population in San Antonio and to raise money for SAMMinistries.
Have any questions? Log onto www.samm.org or call (210) 340-0302.
