Megan McGuire

As many of you know, I spent years working in Metro Nashville Public Schools, where I first saw the incredible impact of Soles4Souls—a nonprofit that provides shoes to students experiencing homelessness. I didn’t just learn about them—I relied on them.

Every day, many of my students were facing homelessness. I saw kids wearing shoes two sizes too big because it’s all they had. I remember a little boy who wore soccer cleats to school for a week straight—not for a game, but because they were his only pair of shoes that fit. Soles4Souls stepped in, providing new, name-brand shoes to these kids, giving them confidence, dignity, and the simple joy of running and playing like every child should.

That’s why I’m participating in Race4EveryKid—because I know firsthand what a pair of shoes can mean for a child in need. This year, I’ve set a goal to raise enough money (and walk/run enough miles) to provide 133 kids with new shoes—the same number of students who were experiencing homelessness my first year at Buena Vista Elementary.

While those kids have moved on, they’re still deeply in my heart. And this May, I’ll be walking, running, and yes—asking you to help—so that wherever they are, they can start next school year with new shoes on their feet and smiles on their faces.

You can help by making a pledge or a flat donation—every $20 provides a child with a new pair of shoes.

Your support doesn’t just give them something to wear—it gives them the chance to start the school year on the right foot. Thank you for helping me honor these 133 students who will always hold a special place in my heart.