Back On My Feet Races Past Second Annual 'Blue & Green' Birthday!

NORTHWEST -- With two successful years behind it and many more ahead, Back on My Feet DC has proven that the fight against homelessness really is less of a sprint and more a marathon.

And on Thursday evening, the nonprofit toasted its accomplishments and ongoing mission inside the ballrooms of the JW Marriott hotel during its second annual ‘Blue & Green Birthday Bash’.

Serving double-duty as both a celebratory affair and a serious fundraiser, hundreds of Washingtonians packed the sold-out party for a night that boasted everything from a cocktail reception to a seated dinner to a live auction to an ‘80s after party featuring the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders courtesy of sponsor popchips!.

First established out of Philadelphia in 2007, Back on My Feet has quickly transformed itself into a national operation committed to eradicating homelessness. Yet the organization doesn’t provide food or shelter, but instead uses running as a vehicle to teach critical work and life skills, including discipline, confidence, leadership, team work and goal-setting, to participants as a gateway towards more advanced assistance.

Once members have proven their dedication and commitment towards achieving a better life by engaging in a program of organized runs (90% attendance is required of each week’s three morning runs), they then move-on to Back on My Feet’s “next steps”, which includes job training, employment, and housing opportunities.

The D.C. chapter of the nonprofit was founded a little over two years ago on March 22nd, 2010. Since that time, it has helped 65 members obtain employment, 74 members enroll in job training, and 36 members find more permanent housing.

And despite a floating finish line, that’s definitively a milestone worth celebrating!