Why am I a marathoner? Why did I choose this marathon? This marathon is awesome! This is my second time running the Chicago Marathon. I loved running downtown with all the people cheering me on. It was amazing to see everyone holding signs for their loved ones. My mom and sister came with me that trip and for moral support. I would wait to see them at certain mile markers and they would cheer me on. My favorite part was turning the curve of the marathon to see my mom and sister waiting at the finish line. It gave me that extra speed to finish. I loved it.
My finish in 2012.
This time the marathon is set up a little differently. The last time I ran it all I had to do was sign up in time. This time there was a lottery system in place. My husband, cousin and I wanted to run it together. I knew there was no way all three of us would get chosen. My husband and I decided on the charity route. We are raising money for Oasis for Kenyan Orphans. This organization has a special place in my heart because I am going to Africa this summer to Kenya to work with orphans. Not with Oasis but with another ministry. I am excited for my trip to Kenya.
Before a run in my Oasis for Orphans shirt 🙂
On my long runs or short runs, I pray for the orphans I am raising money to help. This is so close to my heart that at times it feels like it can break in two for these children in orphanages. This is the first marathon I have done for charity. I am hoping it won’t be my last.
Who is Oasis for Orphans? (http://www.oasisfororphans.org/about-oasis/mission-vision-strategy/)
The Oasis Mission:
Oasis for Orphans exists to rescue orphaned and vulnerable children in Kenya and to develop them physically, spiritually, economically, and socially, enabling these children to one day be contributing members of their community and future leaders in their country.
The Oasis Vision:
We see a day when thousands of vulnerable children, neglected by society, are connected to loving sponsors and rescued into homes where they will be developed holistically, restoring hope to the children and the communities where they live.
The Oasis Strategy:
In order to accomplish our mission, we must excel in the following four areas:
- Develop Committed Relationships: Two key relationships must be established and fostered to provide love and security to an orphaned child – the sponsor/child relationship and the guardian/child relationship. A committed relationship between a child and sponsor can be transformational for both parties. A devoted guardian provides security for the orphan’s future.
- Implement a Holistic Development Plan: Rescuing children is not enough. Oasis’ success will be measured by our ability to develop the child into a contributing member of their community. This will not happen without being intentional about the process of development. The Oasis development plan is holistic meaning that it grows the child in four key areas – physically, spiritually, economically and socially.
- Maintain a Sound Financial System: Oasis is committed to fundraising in order to provide for the needs of orphaned children and stewarding those resources responsibly both in America and Kenya.
- Form Strategic International Partnerships: To accomplish our goal of rescuing and developing children in Kenya, without creating an unhealthy dependence, we must be prepared to establish, grow, and release partnerships as they become self-sufficient. Oasis is committed to partnering with Kenyan leaders and Kenyan staff members who will lead and manage the complete care of the orphaned child.
Would you be willing to be support me? Would you be willing to help these orphans?
Three ways to give:
1. Prayerfully consider giving toward my goal at my FirstGiving Page: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/jen-schrempf-2/bank-of-america-chicago-marathon-2014
2. Prayer. Please pray for these orphans and for all orphans around the world.
3. Lastly, encouraging me to continue on training for my race.
And if you spend yourself on behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
Then your light will rise in the darkness
and your night will become like midday.
The Lord will guide you always,
He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land,
And will strengthen your bones;
You will be like a well-watered garden,
Like a spring whose waters never fail.
– Isaiah 58:10-11
Life is a marathon 