Making a Difference One Step at a Time
Anne Mahlum - CNN Hero
I was first drawn to Ann’s story by way of the CNN Heroes initiative. This is a brilliant program which focuses on ordinary people making extraordinary contributions. They search the globe for people whose selflessness, dedication and achievement are making a difference and positively impacting the world.
Ann’s story goes like this at 5 a.m. on any given day, she could be found running the dark streets of Philadelphia — with homeless men cheering her on as she passed their shelter. But one morning during the spring of 2007, she stopped in her tracks.
It’s a day that changed her life and, in the time since, has changed hundreds of others. Her decision has even saved a few lives, like that of James Singletary – a man who thought he lost it all until he found Anne and the group she founded, Back on My Feet.
Ann Mahlum had learned long ago that running brought her confidence, strength and self-esteem. Believing that it could also promote self-sufficiency in the homeless population, Mahlum did not go at the problem in the traditional manner.
No direct goal to provide anyone food – no move to provide anyone shelter. Just an addict who understood addiction and how to channel it.
A young lady who had in mind the idea to provide these homeless men a community, a place that could foster some respect while teaching discipline and teamwork. A place where they could feel a sense of support.
And then, once that community was in place, Mahlum provided, through her own example, the motivation needed for these men to move towards self-sufficiency.
For Mahlum, it wasn’t just about running; it was about creating a community that helped each of these individuals regain their dignity; it was about a process that was complete only when each of them has a stable job and a place to live.
But make no mistake about it, for Mahlum, running was the catalyst.
From the “Back on My Feet” web site:
“Running is one of the most empowering activities there is because there is no end. There is always another mile, another road, another right turn. There is no buzzer and there is no referee. It has taught me so much about life, especially the simple notion that to get anywhere, you have to take it one step at a time.”
If you have any doubts about this young lady and her motives, you must watch her acceptance speech from November of last year when she was honored with a CNN Heroes award.
6 Responses to “Making a Difference One Step at a Time”
Eat Smart Age Smart May 19th, 2009 at 10:36 am
I also have been quite moved and touched by many of the CNN Heroes.
Most of these people are ordinary folks who woke up one day and actually believed they could make a huge difference in the lives of others.
Their actions are so self-less and it’s about helping others who have less.
I’ll admit that some of these heroes have actually moved me deeply and it proves that one simple gesture CAN make a difference in peoples lives and we should never ignore that.
This is a great post!
Caroline August 10th, 2009 at 4:34 am
Hi – what an amazing story and such a lesson. Thanks for stopping by the other day, and for sharing such a wonderful article on this lady.
Jackie October 13th, 2009 at 9:56 am
Thanks for sharing this inspiring article with everyone. . After reading her story and viewing the videos on CNN I decided to join a wonderful Association called Together We Can Change The World . Yes it is so true if we all come together and join a giving circle we can definitely make a difference.
What would it take to change the world? Create Unity? Create Peace?
Together We Can Change The World, Inc. has created the 5 Million For Change Campaign to mobilize a force of good that will sweep across the globe and create true sustainable CHANGE on every continent.
to learn more. Join me to make a difference.
Beth January 15th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
I simply LOVE this women, her vision and the simplicity of the delivery. While she certainly has made a difference to those lives she has already touched, she made a difference in mine today.
Dennis Gravitt January 27th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
That this young lady was able to take something as simple and pure as the act of running to enable her fellow man, is truly remarkable. It inspires the rest of us to be better versions of ourselves.
Queen January 27th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
This is a wonderful story. Taking it one step at a time. I can share with her story. Helping homeless and others is my mission one person at a time. How we have under stated their abilities, gifts, and talents. Some had titles before and after their name. All homeless are on drugs or any other substance. So of us are just a few checks away from being in their shoes. So, you never know when you are going to need someone to help you take one step back to reality in society.