It’s our BIRTHDAY!

We have had an incredible year and can’t thank all of our supporters enough. There are so many people who have helped make this year so successful and we are grateful for every single one of you.

Thank you to all of our partner facilities HVAF of Indiana, Progress House, Resident Members, Core team members, Non-res runners, FundRacers, Volunteers at races, Corporate supporters and anyone else who has been involved in nurturing and growing this amazing chapter.

Purchase tickets for our upcoming Birthday Luncheon!

2012 in a nutshell:

• 3 Partner Facilities
• 45 active resident members
• 3 active alumni members
• 80 volunteers
• 77 members served since March 8^, 2011
• 49 members who have completed a competitive race
• 13 members who have completed a half-marathon
• 3 members who have completed a full-marathon
• 8 members who have obtained housing
• 25 members are currently employed
• 56 members have enrolled in financial literacy, job training programs or schooling
• 83% of members in Next Steps

Check out the year in pictures:

Our first circle as a team- at the first of many BlueMile shoe fittings! Thank you BlueMile for being such an amazing supporter.

Members from team HVAF Warman at the launch luncheon at JW Marriott.

White Lodging helping us get our chapter started! Thank You!

Heading to the start line of our first race!

Shane (blue BoMF shirt) and Patrick running the Legacy Loop 5k

Nearly three years ago, Shane experienced an accidental overdose, including getting shocked back to life. Shane went into a coma and because of this the Oxygen supply was cut off to his brain. As a side effect, he lost all coordination to his hands and legs. He spent much of the next few months relearning things most of us take for granted. Shane didn’t believe he would even walk again, let alone run a half marathon!

Running Shoe Size: 10

Hometown/Family: From Southport, His family- Mom, Stepfather, Stepsister and Brother- live in Indianapolis.

Favorite Athlete: Jeff Gordon, Peyton Manning–I have a different favorite athlete for each sport. I tend to base my likeness on what they do for the community and how they are as a person and their overall persona more than their athletic ability.

Favorite Music: Old school rock, Kiss, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones

What brought you into Progress House? What were you overcoming?

I always knew that I had a problem and knew that I would need help getting off the drugs and alcohol; I just didn’t know how to approach the help. I came to visit my brother who was already in Progress House and saw he had a different light in his eyes. I instantly knew this is where I would get clean.

Why did you join BoMF?

My brother was on the team and he was telling me how much fun the people are and told me how much it had helped him. He sold me on the idea of joining the team.

How difficult was it having your brother living in Progress House and how did you approach this relationship?

Before I came to Progress House, my brother and I had a rocky relationship for the past few years. Progress House was a blessing in disguise because it has made our relationship stronger and brought us back together.

You work at a restaurant that serves alcohol, is this difficult being in recovery?

It doesn’t bother me anymore, if anything it repulses me. My managers understand and support that I am in recovery and do not push the alcohol at me.

What races have you completed with BoMF?

Monumental Half Marathon, Santa Hustle 5k, New Year’s Eve 5k, Legacy Loop 5k, Ground hog 7

In your spare time, what do you like to do?

In the little spare time I have, I try to spend as much time as possible with my kids. I love to be outdoors whether it is running, walking, or biking. Being outside offers me a serenity I can’t get anywhere else. My favorite coffee drink is a White Chocolate Mocha, which is often times my reward for being outside!

BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goals):

I want to go back to school, get my license back, and be able to provide for my kids and keep doing better for myself.

Emily and 'Outta Site' Mike preparing to run the New Year's Eve Masquerace 5k!

Emily started running with HVAF Team Warman every Wednesday and almost every Friday in October. She has committed to being the Volunteer Coordinator of our new facility and we are excited for her to take on a stronger role in our little family!

Running shoe size? 8

Favorite post run food? Chocolate Milk

How many 5ks have you completed? Santa Hustle 5k, Acts of ’5K’ indness New Year’s Eve Masquerace, and Legacy Loop 5k

Favorite race you’ve ever done? Santa Hustle 5k

Favorite music? I like many different artists but feel auto tune and techno are the downfall to music and radio as we know it.

Favorite athlete? Well, my favorite team is the Chicago Cubs! I love baseball!

Favorite vacation spot? Grandma’s house

Bucket list item you plan to cross off soon? Run a half marathon! Also travel somewhere warm.

Why do you run?

After participating with BoMF for three months now, I no longer think about the running but the familiar faces I get to spend time with. The wellness aspect of BoMF is just a bonus to all the relationship building and networking going on. I have made many meaningful friends and connections because of this organization. With all BoMF has done for me, I can only be excited to continue my journey with this organization.

Family and work? I have a great family! I am a Bilingual Women’s Advocate for women and children in transitional housing at The Julian Center. The Julian Center is a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence.

What is your most memorable BoMF memory?

I have several memories, but my favorite was completing a service project with the HVAF Warman Team guys gutting a house for Hearts and Hands. This was the first time I felt part of the BoMF team.

What has BoMF meant to you?

I was initially drawn to BoMF as possible programming for the women I work with in transitional housing her in Indianapolis. I was sold when I met a few key individuals here in the Indianapolis chapter who shared their personal journey to being part of the organization and why they believe so firmly in the mission. Just as those key individuals shared their passion for BoMF, I too feel very strongly now in promoting BoMF to continue bringing individuals to success. I have met a great deal of amazing individuals who are all like minded in simply that they want to help their community however that may be through BoMF.

How is BoMF helping you with your future career?

BoMF is an exemplary model in volunteerism and community building. As I am working to build a better community, BoMF provides an existing framework to outline. The organization works to further other community initiatives by partnering with them, strengthening not only the Indianapolis chapter but the possibilities for both organizations.

Advice for people who might want to start running with BoMF?

BoMF is not about speed, pace, running the fastest or longest. BoMF is about building character and social capital. Each person needs and wants to have meaningful connections with others. BoMF provides a safe and welcoming environment of intentional friendship-making. The rapport building and formation of these friendships have helped me personally and professionally. I have met and listened to the triumphs and struggles of residents and non residents. BoMF offers support where one may not have it, an ear for someone to listen, and several laughs to keep you smiling. I am privileged to be part of Back on My Feet, Indianapolis.

Jeffrey and Tom (sporting a dead squirrel) get ready to volunteer for Hearts and Hands of Indiana, a not-for-profit that rehabs houses in the Haughville area near downtown Indianapolis.

Running Shoe Size: 9

Home Town/Family: Brooklyn, Indiana, two daughters

Fave Athlete: Peyton Manning

Fave Music:  Classic Rock

In what branch of the military did you serve? Navy

Most memorable BoMF memory? I’d have to say the Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving morning. It was my first run with BoMF and I opted to do the longer, four mile route.  Although I had my bus pass just in case I had to find my way back to Warman, there was Brian waiting for me at the finish line.

Why did you come out for the BoMF team?  Honestly?  I want to work.  I’d like to find a job.

What races have you run in with BoMF? Which one was your fave? I’ve done the Drumstick Dash, the Santa Hustle and the New Year’s 5K Masquerace and I’d have to say the Santa Hustle was my favorite. Everyone was so upbeat. Well heck, it was Christmas!

What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to read a lot, especially mysteries. Back in the day I had a rose garden.  I can fix anything in a house (or on it, the roof, etc.) I’m really good with tools, working with my hands and figuring out how to fix things.

Jeffrey’s BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals): (These are things you can’t do on your own, but need God’s help.)

I’d like to get a job and someday own another house.

We give a runner’s salute to Jeffrey for his
consistent attendance and humoring us with
his witty “Jeffreyisms”. You know how
to give us a good chuckle when
we need it.

Jeffrey crosses the finish line in the 5K MasqueRACE the morning of New Years' Eve.

Ron Gephart, Keith Brown, John Howish (Keith in the middle, never ceases to amaze us with his fun, hilarious outfits at races... we love it!)

Name: Keith Brown

Running Shoe Size: 10

Hometown: Cleveland, OH

Favorite Music: Everything! Classical to Van Morrison, Little Feat to The Rolling Stones.

Favorite Sports Team: All Cleveland teams, even during the continuing rough years!

One Hero: Dr. Bill Thomas out of New York, who started working with seniors and developed the Greenhouse Project, Eden Project, and continuing spin offs.

What brought you to BoMF:

I was a soccer player in high school and college, and saw BoMF as an opportunity to get back into shape, get my metabolism going at a faster rate, and lose weight. The other reason I came to BoMF was seeing the team every morning having fun and joking around, which I thought was something that could help with my recovery process.

I also know BoMF will help me quit smoking, which will make it easier to run, I’m just not ready yet!

What difference has BoMF made in your life:

It has opened doors, provided mental clarity and allowed connections to be made that wouldn’t happen in a regular recovery program. The timing of some of the opportunities I have been given, allowed me to get my health back up.

BoMF has been the most instrumental resource for me in a full recovery and getting back into the community. I will transition close to the facility to keep the friendships and connections I have gained.

What races have you ran with BoMF & what’s been your favororite:

Monumental Marathon 5K, Back on My Feet 42K Relay, Santa Hustle 5K and The Planet Adventure New Year’s Eve Masquerace 5K

The Back on My Feet 42K Relay was my favorite because it was unique and it was my first race!

Most memorable BoMF memory: True friendships

BHAG: (Big Hairy Audacious Goals – thanks Deb for this awesome question!)

1. Find connection between Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Autism
2. Own a Bed and Breakfast
3. See the world
4. Become an Indiana and US Lobbyist

Advice for new members: Don’t give up, never give up! It is easier than it looks and the longest journey starts with the first step! Also the SWAG is pretty cool!

What do you do in your spare time: Between school, work, and running there is little time left for anything! I do enjoy Turner Classic Movies, trying to keep up with current affairs, and of course running 5Ks!

Keith practiced Law for 28 years as a Public Defender, and now has a passion for helping the elderly, especially those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. He also has a passion for holistic and spiritual healing. Keith is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Health Administration from the Ashford University in Iowa. He would like to use this degree to create an alternative for seniors going to a typical nursing home facility.

Currently, Keith is employed with The Citizens Action Coalition where he visits communities in Indianapolis to ensure people are paying a fair price for their utilities and other government services.

“I have found Keith to be one of the most dedicated members of Team Progress House and thoroughly enjoy having him on the team.” said Program Director, Brian Meyer, “He is always ready with a kind word and a helping hand.”

It was cold, our hands were numb, but the costumes made us smile and we had a lot of fun running in our Santa beards! Back on My Feet was represented well, with over 40 res and non res runners!

Milton, Beth & John ready to run!

Milton and Mike from Team Warmen ran their first race with Back on My Feet and many others set new PR’s, but most importantly enjoyed the fellowship with their teammates.

Photo Credit: IndyStar Charlie Nye

Pictured in the front center is our very own Boston Qualified Mitch Rightor from team Progress House. Mitch placed 5th in this race.

Mike & William Team Warmen!

Congratulations to all of the runners at the Santa Hustle this weekend! Thank you to the Santa Hustle for donating bibs to our members and allowing runners to donate to our program!

Don’t miss out on our next Holiday race:

Planet Adventure New Year’s Eve 5k: Acts of ’5K’indness Masquerace!

Saturday, December 31, 2011, 10am at Traders Point 7400 Hunt Club Road, Zionsville IN 4607

Only $10 to enter and half of the proceeds benefit Back on My Feet Indy!