I’m going to be running my second Marine Corps Marathon this year on Sunday, October 25.  I’m running as part of Team Running Strong, a charity headed by Billy Mills, the last American to win an Olympic Gold Medal in distance running (10,000 meters).  Running Strong for American Indian Youth helps to meet some of the most basic human needs on Indian Reservations, serving the poorest demographic group in United States.  Indeed, casinos have made a small number of tribes very wealthy, but the vast majority of Native Americans have not benefitted due to geographic isolation and other challenges. 

Running Strong devotes resources to several core areas:

·         Food distribution and nutrition

·         Water wells

·         Youth programs

·         Cultural and language preservation

·         Housing assistance

A few highlights.  In the last year, thirteen wells have been dug.  New homes are being constructed on reservations in a program launched last December that works very much like habitat for humanity.  At the Center Pole Crow Reservation, students who met academic goals were rewarded with their choice of any item from a local trading post.  Instead of toys, it was observed that one of the most popular items selected were shoes.  Running Strong has adopted gifts of shoes as a priority—last year 3,182 pairs of new shoes were distributed.

Last time out in 2007, we raised $ 1,229.10, or enough to provide more than 100 pairs of new shoes to children on the Crow reservation.  This year, my goal is to raise $ 1500.00. 

I’m asking people to contribute in any amount.  Contributions by the mile are great ($ 26.20), and if you can give more, I’ll take it!  Even a token contribution would be much appreciated.

The easiest way to give is through the website.  I can collect checks as well.  Contributions are tax deductible.  Check out the program’s website:  http://www.indianyouth.org/

Thanks much for considering taking part in this!