Running the Race Together

Laura Lindsley, Tom Haren (Newspring), and Corey Shore after finishing the race

A few weekends ago, something beautiful happened. Dozens of us—foster families, volunteers, mentors, and kids—gathered
to participate in the Race for Recovery 5K to support the Bridge Center Recovery Program. The goal was not just to run a 5K, but instead to live out what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus in community. With every step, we weren't just completing a race—we were telling a story of hope, healing, and what’s possible when we cheer each other on.

For many, a 5K can seem like a small feat. But for our community, it meant something deeper. Some of our teens had never run that far before. One of our foster moms was just coming out of the hospital after a life threatening medical condition where she had to learn to walk again. One staff member was walking on an injured foot. Some parents pushed strollers, carried little ones, or ran on tired legs from sleepless nights. Some walked, some jogged, some sprinted—but every person who crossed that finish line did so with courage and heart.

Just like in foster care, the road wasn’t easy. There were moments of doubt, fatigue, and the temptation to give up. But side by side, we reminded each other: you’re not alone.

One of the most powerful scenes came near the final stretch, where the final two staff members were coming into the final stretch of the race and everyone else who had already completed the race lined up at the finish line to cheer them on. They were shouting “Come on! Finish strong!” Step by step, they crossed the line—together, not because it was easy, but because that's what love does.

Our foster mom, Lauren James, and her family before the race.

That’s the heartbeat of this ministry: to live in community. To show up. To listen. To lock arms and run toward healing, even when it’s hard.

We often say that foster care isn’t about fixing kids—it’s about being present in the hard and helping them discover they were never broken. Completing this race was just one more reminder that hard things can be done. Not alone, not perfectly—but with a tribe around you, anything is possible.

Thank you to everyone who ran, walked, volunteered, or cheered from the sidelines. Your encouragement matters. Your presence speaks louder than words. And in a world where so many children feel forgotten or unseen, moments like these tell them: you are deeply loved, and you are worth showing up for.

Let’s keep running this race together—not just the 5Ks, but the daily miles of foster care ministry. There’s joy ahead, healing ahead, and hope with every step we take—together.