Nine former homeless people graduated from “Back on My Feet” Wednesday, the local group that motivates the homeless by building strength and self-esteem through running.
The innovative program successfully trained and graduated nine members of "Back on My Feet" from an eight-week computer-training program at the Metropolitan Career Center in Philadelphia.
“Fourteen months ago I really didn't know where I was to tell you the truth,” said James Singletary, 48, one of the graduates. “I was just plain lost."
Singletary was a homeless drug addict not long ago and now he has a job as a chef and his own home, as well as the bragging rights that come with running two half marathons and a marathon.
"To tell you the truth, the only time I ever ran was from the law..and that's being honest," said Singletary.
Established in July 2007, the non-profit works with local homeless shelters in the program that offers connections to job training, scholarships and housing assistance. The way each member earns these benefits? By becoming focused, physically strong and self-confident running with other members three times a week.
The more consistent and dedicated a member becomes, the more opportunities “Back on My Feet” provides that member.
