I’d never been to San Jose California until this event and let me tell you, it’s a GREAT city!  After driving with my neighbor/volunteer, Steve Bailey, up north we finally pulled into San Jose ready to dump our gear at the expo location in hopes of having a great turnout the next day.  Not sure what to expect since this event had fewer runners enrolled, 11,800 or so, considerably less than the past two events we attended, we started Friday anticipating a low turnout at the expo. We had a pleasant surprise when we took in over 100 pairs the first day.  Then Saturday rolled around and the crowd was even bigger with many of the runners telling us they would donate on race day.  Sure enough they did and the final tally came to a little over 500 pairs!  The most ever for us at an event.

Brian McCullogh from Sacred Heart Community Service

The people of San Jose really came through and Sacred Heart Community Service was happy to get all the shoes that were donated.  I met up with Brian from Sacred Heart Community Service prior to the event taking place and informed him that we were hoping for around 350 pairs or so.  I think he was a bit surprised when he showed up for the shoes and we filled his minivan…TWICE! Here Brian is standing next to a rack of what they call “Survival Sacks”.  Sacred Heart prepares these sacks to hand out to those less fortunate that come through their facility each day.  They consist of toiletries, food and basic essentials that you and I take for granted.  They also have child care, give away all the clothes for free and help people get ready for employment.  Quite an incredible facility to say the least.

We wrapped up the event Sunday afternoon and me and my 3 volunteers/friends began the 7 hour drive back down south to Orange County.  The whole way we talked about all the people we met and how much we enjoyed the city. If you ever get out to Northern California make it a point to stop in San Jose.  I can tell you one thing, the people there are giving.