Event funds home that helps girls
By Harriet Vaughan • THE TENNESSEAN • October 2, 2009
FRANKLIN — The countdown has begun for Mercy Ministries inaugural Run for Mercy fundraising race.
Planners hope that the first-time event will raise big money for the faith-based Brentwood home that helps girls escaping drug addictions, abuse, low self esteem, self harming, eating disorders, depression and more.
The race will start at 9:00 a.m. Oct. 24 at Edwin Warner Park.
Planning for the race has been several months in the works. Organizers had hoped to attract 200 runners. Three weeks out they already have 220 people registered with more coming in. They also have passed the original fundraising goal, bringing in $15,000 so far.
One of the teams registered is of a group of girls who live at the Mercy home.
"It really shows how much of an impact Mercy has made on them, that they would make that choice," said Whitney Nall, community relations manager.
"They started in September working out and training for this. They're working with the fitness manager each week on this goal. It's been a neat way for them to just encourage each other and work together and celebrate the journey they've been on here at Mercy. And they're giving back to Mercy so that funds can keep coming in and so others can receive the help that they have."
The event will offer something for the entire family, including the youngest runners. There will be a Kids Carnival zone featuring face painting, free smoothies, Chik-fil-A, three-legged races and more.
"Most of our events in the past have been for adults. This is one of our first major family-friendly events. We're excited that kids of all ages can come out and do something fun and healthy in the fall," said Nall.
It's all for a good cause, according to Nall. The home has helped hundreds of girls over the years come out of addictions, overcome abuse and learn to love themselves through a faith-based approach.
To learn more and to register, visit www.runformercy.org/nashville or call 615-831-6987.
Contact Harriet Vaughan at 615-771-5415 or hvaughan@tennessean.com.
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