Earlier this year, Forward Engineers was proud to sponsor the Jackrabbit 5K. This race raises money towards the purchase of athletic shoes for community neighbors in need. Over the summer, event organizers lived up to their promise and gave out over 300 shoes right here in NWA with some funds left over (more on that below). Here’s how it played out along with some photos of the giveaway:
In June, we showed up unannounced to the Samaritan Community Center in Rogers and a church service for the homeless community in Fayetteville where we measured the feet of those who needed shoes. We gave each person a voucher to return one month later for our “giveaway” and pick up a brand new pair of shoes that had been ordered just for them! We partnered with Rush Running in Bentonville who worked with their New Balance vendor to provide high quality shoes at deeply discounted prices. Recipients also received socks and a handwritten note from our church members. The homeless recipients also received a care package containing socks, non-perishable food, and hygiene items.
We wish you could have heard the stories and seen the joy brought to the faces of the men, women, and children that received these blessings YOU helped provide!
We are in the process of using our remaining funds to establish a “shoe ministry” at Flagstone Church of Christ so that we can continue to provide shoes for people in need in the community throughout the year on an “as needed” basis.
Over the years, the Jackrabbit 5K has supported giving away more than 1,200 pairs of shoes. The next race is already scheduled for April 18, 2020. Forward Engineers was honored to be a part of this event and we hope to see you next year!
