Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Running with Sole

Deborah Young talks about her community involvement.

Which organization are you involved in and what is its objective?

Running With Sole is a nonprofit organization whose mission is “helping others put their best foot forward one shoe at a time.”  It does this by providing shoes to those in need, promoting physical activity and preventing childhood obesity.  Running with Sole has provided thousands of new and gently worn shoes to those less fortunate in our own backyard, donating to organizations such as Camillus House, First United Methodist Church, Miami Rescue Mission, and Lotus House as well as to many homeless people on our streets and children in other countries, including Nicaragua and Colombia.

What is your role with the organization?

My involvement with Running With Sole started primarily in a fundraising capacity with collecting shoes to donate to the organization.  My friends and colleagues have all been very supportive of this effort.

Why did you decide to get involved in this organization?

A good friend started the organization.  She was an attorney and has a passion for running and for helping others.  What better way to combine the two?  She asked, and I immediately offered to help in any way I could.

How has Kaufman Rossin contributed to your success with this organization?

The firm is a hosting jeans day fundraiser to benefit the organization. Also, Kaufman Rossin allowed Running With Sole to put a shoe bin in our office to collect shoes.

What is your advice for others who are thinking about getting involved in the community?

In addition to my involvement with Running With Sole, I also support many other local organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Chapman Partnership, and the Humane Society.   My advice to others would be to pick an organization whose cause you are passionate about and one where you enjoy the other members. The benefits of community involvement have been tremendous for me.  In addition to the sense of fulfillment I receive from volunteering for these organizations, I have also made great friends and business contacts, and I have promoted and co-hosted some fabulous events while raising money for many great causes.