TBG Partner, Alan Wiesenberger
Running in a Half Marathon with URA -- Go Alan!      
God at Work
One of the most frequently quoted verses in the Bible is 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."  Each of us run on a unique race track, fortified with obstacles and distractions designed to throw us off-course.  One wrong turn can completely change our standing in the race.  Though all is not lost, as the marginalized and unseen in the race can emerge as a dark horse triumphantly crossing the finish line.   
 
Though there are many potential dark horse subcultures within our society, in California none are swelling in numbers like the homeless population.  In 2018 Los Angeles topped the list of the nation's largest out-door homeless population, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.  Even Newport Beach recently made headline news as a tent city took root in Fashion Island.   
 
This problem cannot be fixed through donations or government subsidies alone.  There must be a multidimensional approach.  The Barnabas Group ("TBG") is dedicated to community outreach, supporting several organizations focused on helping the homeless.  One of which is Up and Running Again ("URA").  URA is a Christian organization that assists homeless individuals and at-risk youth improve their lives by training for, and completing a half marathon.  Their runners develop a sense of discipline, accomplishment, and purpose. 
 
Christie Lipscomb with URA stated the following about TBG's impact on their organization:
 
"URA has been immensely blessed by the impact of TBG.  Your partners have generously donated their resources, time, and talents.  Specifically, Alan Wiesenberger serves as a member on URA's board, and has volunteered for many of our training runs.  He has provided strategic vision and wisdom, for which we are very grateful.  URA wouldn't be what it is today without TBG. "

We reached out to Alan, who stated the following about his work with URA:
 
"I'll run a training run alongside someone to encourage them.  Yet after hearing their story, I often recognize I'm the one encouraged by hearing what God is doing in their life.  It's hard for someone to brand them-self as a 'loser' after crossing that finish line.  People who have been told they're worthless now realize that they can get a job, a degree, or reconcile relationships.  The impossible becomes possible. "   
 
To learn more about URA, and help God's children complete the race with dignity and honor, please visit www.upandrunningagain.org.