Anne Mahlum Returns to Back on My Feet as Board Member with $1M Donation for Expansion
Anne Mahlum's Impact on Back on My Feet
Anne Mahlum, the visionary founder of the non-profit organization Back on My Feet (BoMF) and the fitness enterprise Solidcore, has made headlines once more by rejoining the Board of Directors of BoMF. Her commitment to contributing $1 million demonstrates not only her dedication to the organization but also highlights the potential for growth within the communities it serves.
Founded in 2007 after Mahlum's heartfelt connection to residents of a Philadelphia shelter during her morning runs, BoMF uses running as a tool to promote self-sufficiency among individuals experiencing homelessness. Mahlum, who personally knows the transformative power of running—having navigated her challenges, including her father's gambling addiction—believes in its capability to inspire belief and motivation. For her, running is more than just a physical pursuit; it symbolizes hope and the possibility of change.
Mahlum's return comes at a crucial time for BoMF. Under the new leadership of CEO Terence Gerchberg, the organization aims to expand its influence across the 16 current markets while establishing five new chapters, targeting 20 by the time they celebrate their 20th anniversary in 2027. This ambitious plan aligns perfectly with Mahlum's vision for the future: to make BoMF a household name in the running community and a beacon of hope for those in need.
In Mahlum’s words, "I’m thrilled to be getting back involved with BoMF under the extraordinary leadership of our new CEO, Terence Gerchberg. The organization has so much potential to help tens of thousands of people and we’re looking forward to making it a household name in the running community." Her enthusiasm is palpable; she is not merely a leader but passionately driven to steer the organization into a new era of growth and support.
"Everyone thought I was nuts thinking I could help people living in homeless shelters change their life through running," Laura recalls. However, her unwavering commitment and a deep-seated belief in the program's potential have resulted in thousands of success stories. With running as the entry point, BoMF enables participants to regain their self-worth, achieve employment, and subsequently leave the shelters behind.
The significance of her $1 million donation cannot be understated—it represents not just funding, but a renewed promise to uplift lives and expand the BoMF initiative. CEO Gerchberg remarked on the importance of Mahlum's return, stating, "Anne's return to our Board and her extraordinary $1 million commitment mark a powerful full-circle moment for Back on My Feet. As we approach our 20th anniversary, her renewed leadership and generosity will propel us into new cities, strengthen our footprint in the running community, and expand our impact nationwide."
In the face of increasing challenges, organizations like Back on My Feet require innovative leaders like Anne Mahlum who understand the intricacies of blending personal experiences with operational growth. As BoMF prepares to embrace this new chapter, millions of lives have the potential to be touched and transformed—proof that perseverance and innovative thinking can ignite positive change in our communities.
As the organization prepares to broaden its reach, the endorsement and financial backing from Mahlum serve as a much-needed catalyst to trigger even greater initiatives—paving the way for a brighter future for all involved. The legacy of Back on My Feet continues to grow, thanks in part to Mahlum's commitment, vision, and relentless dedication to empowering those in need through the simple act of running. The countdown to the organization's 20th anniversary is on, and with Mahlum leading the charge once again, there’s much to anticipate in the coming years.
Together, with community support and a shared vision for change, Back on My Feet stands ready to inspire hope and motivate countless individuals to reclaim their paths to success through the power of running.