Nashville's homeless are real winners of Boulevard Bolt
- Tennessee Voices
Despite chilling temperatures during the early morning of Thanksgiving, Nashvillians of all ages always seem to turn out for the annual Boulevard Bolt, a five-mile run/walk down Belle Meade Boulevard that benefits the homeless.
Although each of the participants have their own reasons for participating in the race, including working off their impending Thanksgiving meal, the real story of the Boulevard Bolt lies where the proceeds go.Each year, the Boulevard Bolt distributes the proceeds of the race to local agencies that serve our fellow homeless in the Nashville area. Most of these agencies are small and severely underfunded. They provide food, medical and psychiatric care, respite and housing to our neediest neighbors.
This year, the proceeds will be used for such needs as an electronic entry system for a homeless family shelter, a new oven for a free meal program, and a new dishwasher for a soup kitchen.
The Boulevard Bolt was started by members of The Temple-Congregation Ohabai Sholom, Immanuel Baptist Church and St. George Episcopal Church, all of whom had the great idea that Thanksgiving could be more than just a big meal.
This year's race marks its 15th anniversary, with more than 8,000 participants expected to participate. To date, the Bolt has raised more than $1 million for the homeless.
So thanks again to those who are planning to show up on the cold, early morning of Thanksgiving to participate in the Boulevard Bolt. Although the runner who passes the finish line first will win the race, the city of Nashville will be the real winner.
Diane S. Kuhn lives in Nashville. For more information, go to www.thebolt.org.
