Back on my Feet: Making a Difference One Step at a Time

Back on my Feet: Making a Difference One Step at a Time

digitalsportsnews | December 15, 2014
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Founded in 2007 by Anne Mahlum, Back on My Feet is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that uses running as a tool to build self-esteem in the homeless. “We believe running instills confidence, motivation and goal-setting,” said Kristen Kouk, a spokeswoman for the Dallas chapter. “Take Jerry, for example. You can’t run 13 miles without putting the right training in. Running definitely teaches a lesson in delayed gratification and the value of hard work.” Jerry Crayton had always been athletic. He played football and ran track at Pinkston High School in West Dallas. When he joined the Navy, he played defensive end on the Subic Bay Admirals football team in the Philippines. Later, he even worked out with the Dallas Cowboys. Crayton had everything going for him until his life took a turn for the worst in 2001. Personal issues with his marriage and a loss of trust from his three sons caused a falling out with his family. Without the support of his family, he began a descent into darkness. Unable to keep a job or apartment, Crayton ended up seeking relatives to take him in; but when patience wore thin for their houseguest, he sought refuge in his car. Homelessness sometimes brings about a revival in one’s faith, where they are looking to a higher power for guidance. In 2007, after a religious conversion, Crayton ended up in a homeless program at the Dallas VA. This is where he met representatives from Philadelphia based Back on My Feet. “This is a program that not only tries to show you that you can do better, but they get out there with you to help you do better,” he said. The positive peer pressure is what kept Crayton coming back to the non-profit’s events. At first, when Crayton first became involved with the group, he was recovering from back surgery. He would come to the events and cheer everybody else on while leaning on his cane. Fast forward through 18 grueling months of training three days a week, Crayton and his trainer, Jana Hempen ran together for 13.1 miles. Miles 5 through 8 proved to be the most challenging, where the course rose to about 160 feet over the length of 4 miles. Crayton’s trainer, Jana Hempen said, ““It was amazing to watch. He went from barely being able to walk to running a half marathon.” Crayton finished in a little over three hours. After experiencing the euphoria of the race, Crayton said he understands why people make running a lifestyle. “I did it,” he said. “This is my first one, and I won’t be doing another one real soon. But there’s no doubt I’ll be running more of these in my life.” Today, Crayton has picked up the pieces. He has reconciled with his wife and moved into a home. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business at Mountain View College. Back on My Feet has 11 chapters nationwide. 46% of Residential Members (those experiencing homelessness) move their lives forward with a job, housing or both. If you or someone you know is interested in the organization and would like to learn more, visit www.backonmyfeet.org.