Olinger Gives Underprivileged Kids New Opportunities In ReRun Sneakers

Collect shoes, shoes, and more shoes. That is the goal of Rerun Sneakers, a non for profit started by Oak Hall junior Britney Olinger. Olinger says their mission statement is that being runners and athletes themselves, they understand the effort that goes into every stride.

 

"It is the mission of ReRun Sneakers Inc  to provide running shoes and supplies for aspiring runners in underprivileged areas who desire to reach their maximum potential but lack the means to purchase such equipment."

 

Olinger (Founder and President), along with fellow teammate Katie Ringdahl (Vice president) saw photos of elementary school runners at their sister school in  Andros Island (Bahamas) running on hot asphalt tracks barefoot or only in socks. She says those pictures inspired  them to start the organization.

 

"We understand how hard it is to train for races and put on miles throughout the season, and it was hard to believe these young runners were forced to do it without shoes. This spring, our first shipment will head down to the very school where the photos were taken."

 

Since last fall, ReRun Sneakers has had a very succesful turnout. One person in particular Mike Carillo of Gainesville Running and walking has donted over 100 pairs of running shoes to the cause. Their combined efforts along with other area businesses such as Montini and Cohen Orthodontics, Evolve Pilates and Fitness, Body by Boris, and local high schools have been integral parts in collecing the running shoes. Olinger says it's awesome to see local runners willing to jump in and set up donation boxes at their schools.

 

"My goal is that other high school runners will eventually become ambassadors for their school and we will have numerous contacts in different areas to ship the shoes to."

 

The group has collected over 300 pairs of shoes from all over the United States including Florida, Connecticut and Missouri. The first shipment will be sent to Andros Island this week. The group is looking at new locations and school connections possibly in Jamiaica or Anguilla and plans to make one large shipment of shoes a year. Olinger believes what makes this organization so special is that it's running specific.

 

"The only type of shoes we accept are training shoes that can be worn again by athletes who need them.  As someone whose life has been greatly influenced by the sport of running, I understand the importance of a pair of training shoes.  I would like to do everything in my power to make running easier for these athletes, and what’s simpler than providing them with a pair of running shoes? I would like to ask runners to donate their lightly used trainers, so athletes in need can ReRun in them."