To the editor:

I write this letter with a heart full of appreciation to this community for coming together to hold the Tryon Running Club’s inaugural half-marathon for the benefit of Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry (Outreach).

People come to Outreach for assistance with a myriad of needs. Some need financial help with a power bill in order to keep the lights and heat on during the cold winter months. Others have no way to pay for a much-needed medical test.  Many more have empty cupboards and a family to feed.

In all of these cases, we are extremely grateful for the community support that allows us to help those who seek our assistance.

The half marathon was truly a community-wide effort. The newly formed Tryon Running Club made a decision to dedicate themselves to ‘giving back, one step at a time; and the sponsors, runners, volunteers and many, many others played a part in making the effort a great success.

For all of those who were involved, in ways great and small, we at Outreach thank you.

– Carol Newton, Executive Director, Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry