The Story Behind an Inspirational Organization – Welcome Diane Studer to the Elmbrook Rotary Rise and Shine meeting.
In a world where the lack of basic necessities can hinder a child’s ability to dream, organizations that address these fundamental needs become beacons of hope. One such organization is Soles for Jesus, a nonprofit dedicated to providing shoes to those in need—primarily in Africa. With the simple yet profound mission of delivering footwear to impoverished communities, Soles for Jesus has touched countless lives, restored health, and extended a hand of friendship across continents.
The story begins with a trip to Africa, where the founder, Diane Studer, witnessed firsthand the hardship faced by children and adults who walked barefoot for miles each day. The dangers were many: blistering heat, rocky paths, parasites, and disease. Shoes, a simple comfort easily taken for granted in some parts of the world, represented both protection and dignity for those without. She returned home resolved to make a difference, thus planting the seed for Soles for Jesus.
At its core, Soles for Jesus operates under the belief that no child should have to go without shoes. The organization’s mission is twofold:
- To collect and distribute new and gently used shoes to individuals in need in Africa.
- To foster cross-cultural relationships and share messages of hope and faith through tangible acts of service.
By providing shoes, Soles for Jesus directly addresses these critical needs, enabling recipients to walk, play, and learn free from pain and shame.
How to get involved
Anyone can contribute to the mission. Here are some ways to get involved:
- Donate shoes: Clean out your closet and give new life to gently used footwear.
- Host a shoe drive: Organize a collection event at your school, workplace, or faith community.
- Volunteer: Help sort, clean, and prepare shoes for shipment, or offer administrative or logistical support.
- Spread the word: Use social media, community bulletins, or personal networks to raise awareness about the need for shoes.
- Financial contributions: Donations help cover shipping costs and operational expenses, ensuring that every pair of shoes reaches its intended destination.
Through the simple gift of shoes, the organization changes destinies, fosters hope, and brings comfort to those in need. As it continues to grow, its story reminds us that each of us has the ability to make a difference—one step, one pair of shoes, and one life at a time.
Diane and Kerri with Friday's donations.Diane, thank you for sharing your stories of adventure and service to the people of thirty-one countries in Africa… and Kerri Richlen for heading up the shoe drive that produce 136 pair of shoes on that day… with more to come. Rotarians, your generosity and Service Above Self continues to shine locally and around the world.
