I wanted to write about a local organization here in Lincoln County that is dedicated to providing immediate assistance to members of our community that are in desperate need of food. Last month, I had a good friend send me a message on Facebook telling me that this local food bank was running out of food supplies. Since I had never heard of this organization, I personally wanted to see for myself if they were really in need of help, or if they were just another non-profit organization trying to make a dime. Let me tell you; I was moved. Not only was I moved by the people who waited for 3 to 5 hours in the cold rain to receive food, but I was also moved by the amazing volunteers who took their personal time that Tuesday afternoon to help prepare and pass out the food.

I decided for the following week to have all 23 of our employees, as well as my wife and little girl, to volunteer at Provision Port for Tuesday night food distribution. I really wanted them to not only be thankful for what they have, but I also wanted them to show compassion to others as well. I really believe that this world could become a better place if only we would stop and take time to help out others that are in need around us. I think nowadays, we can sometimes have a tendency to overlook showing compassion towards the needs of others. However, if each one of our employees would go home and tell a friend or a family member what they witnessed at Provision Port…. then I believe that IT WAS WORTH IT!

Provision Port is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide individuals and families with clothing, food, and emotional support. Provision Port specifically targets community members that are classified as homeless, low income, working low income, and the elderly.

We had less than 60 days to organize the race.  Our initial goal was to have 250 people sign up.  We exceeded and doubled that number by the end of the day.  I can not thank the volunteers enough for all their help and support.   The day of the race I did not expect Todd and Sara to show up.   When it came time to give out the trophies,  it was so emotional to see Ella with her Daddy next to me,  I forgot to thank all the volunteers.   Everything I wanted to say, went down my cheeks with my tears!    Please forgive me!

Every penny we raised has gone back into the account that we set up for this event.  We had less than $400.00 in expenses to put the race on.  Toilets, and timing!  Other than that, everything else was donated by our wonderful sponsors.

I also have to give Mike Johnsey a big old hug!  In our first brainstorm meeting about the race, he mentioned that his company has a special charity that out of every payroll check of his, he personally donates a little money to this charity.   Mike decided to take the initiative and write a letter about Ella.   He never expected to hear anything back from them, but it was worth a shot.    Yesterday,  we got a check for $2500.00!!!! from Christian Foundation Inc, which is located in  Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

With this final check, it brings the total amount raised to $15,000!

We are also pleased to announce that this will become a yearly event to help raise money for other families that are in need of help!    For more information please goto:  http://runforella.com