NCR volunteers foster community rapport

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Marilyn C. Holliday
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON --  "Give a Shoe - Change A Life ." 

That was the theme for the event, when 20 volunteers from the National Capitol Region teamed with volunteers from throughout the U.S., to help in the distribution of hundreds of pairs of shoes to disadvantaged D.C. children April 4 at Paramount Baptist Church. 

The event was sponsored by Samaritan's Feet, an organization whose mission is to give 10 million pairs of shoes to 10 million children in 10 years. The quest began in 2003 and thousands of volunteers at locations throughout the world donate time and money to make the mission a reality. 

"I wanted to be involved in an event that affected the local community," said Staff Sgt. Kwame McIver, 779th Medical Group at the Pentagon. "I can identify with the charity's cause since my family could not afford to buy me a lot of clothes. I can remember having to take care of my shoes so that they would last." 

Nigerian born Emmanuel "Manny" Ohonme, Samaritan's Feet founder, was given his first pair of tennis shoes at age 9 - by a "Good Samaritan." Although he attended college in America and now lives here, he never forgot about other little boys and girls in Africa without shoes and he created a campaign to make sure that children around the world would receive new shoes. 

"Community service is a major part of who we are as military members," said Staff Sgt. Dan DeCook, 11th Wing Public Affairs and NCR volunteer organizer. "We live and work in this area and it always feels good to give back. It's certainly an honor to be a small part of a huge effort that changes lives." 

As part of the day's schedule, several volunteers to include Mr. Ohonme, walked an eight-mile route from the Lincoln Memorial to the event, drawing awareness for the foundation along the route. Volunteers from the NCR joined the formation of walkers outside the base's main gate for the final 1.8 mile leg, welcoming additional walkers along the way - children who would eventually be given new shoes.

"Helping out during this event was time well spent because I know that you are not in this world just to serve yourself, but to be a blessing to others," said Sergeant McIver. "I really enjoyed seeing the kids with new shoes. Everyone needs to sacrifice a little time to help someone. We are all in this thing together."

Other volunteers shared the same sentiment and vowed to continue to make a difference in the community.

"This was the first time that I have volunteered for an activity since being stationed at Bolling, but it definitely will not be my last," said Airman 1st Class Amanda Scott, 579th Medical Group. "While volunteering I got the joy of seeing the children's smiles when they got new shoes. That made my day."

At the final destination, walkers were greeted with more volunteers and children and families who were poised for shoe distribution. The children had their feet measured and were given new socks and shoes before heading outside for refreshments and entertainment.