Margaret Rolfe, TNDR YP Board Member
The YP Board recently wrapped up our second annual six-week In Her Shoes walking challenge, and it was the most meaningful fundraising campaign I’ve ever participated in.
In Her Shoes is so much more than a step challenge. Every day, as I tracked my own steps, I found myself thinking about the many steps the women at TNDR take on their journeys to recovery. It takes incredible strength and courage to leave behind their everyday lives, families, and children to begin the hard work of healing, and that reminder made every walk more meaningful and served as a powerful source of motivation throughout the challenge.
It was inspiring to know that more than 100 participants were taking those steps together each day and united by one goal: supporting the women at TNDR. Just as the women spend six weeks in treatment, each week of the challenge represented a different milestone on their path – from finding the courage to begin treatment to the hope of walking out the doors equipped spiritually, mentally, and physically to begin a new chapter and continue their recovery journey.
We were blown away by the support this year, especially considering it was only the second year of the campaign. Together, we doubled our fundraising goal and raised more than $42,000!
One of my favorite parts of the experience was sharing it with my mom, Ann. While I suspected she’d top the step leaderboard (and she definitely did!), introducing her to TNDR’s mission made the challenge even more meaningful. I’ll let her share her perspective:
As Margaret’s mom, my participation in In Her Shoes was initially just a way to support her involvement with The Next Door Recovery. Recently retired, I also loved the idea of a walking challenge—and, if I’m being honest, the possibility of winning a nice facial at Skin Pharm! What I walked away with, however, was a much deeper understanding of The Next Door Recovery’s mission and impact. I’m grateful Nashville has this facility and program for women struggling with addiction and mental health, providing them with the support and tools they need to move forward in a safe, faith-based environment. It’s powerful work, and it’s truly making a difference. Thank you, TNDR!
Photo: Ann and Margaret