An Extraordinary Year With Mudderella!

When Mudderella approached us about becoming the national charity beneficiary of their mud obstacle events last year, we were completely overwhelmed with excitement! We had never been part of anything quite like it: a 5-7 mile muddy obstacle course focused on team work and empowerment. With a tagline, “Own Your Strong,” we knew this was the perfect pairing for FUTURES.

And we were right. Over the course of the year, the seven Mudderella events held across the nation this season drew over 50,000 participants and volunteers and raised over $200,000 dollars for FUTURES.

The Mudderella events took our team across the nation this year—from the rolling hills of rural Pennsylvania, to the desert mountains of sunny Southern California. Wherever we went, we saw people connecting with our cause, and heard powerful stories of bravery and resiliency. That’s what Mudderella is all about: overcoming obstacles and making sure that everyone crosses the finish line.

It was incredible to see how our cause resonated with participants and fundraisers. We heard from individuals who lost loved ones, friends, family members, and colleagues. We spoke with teams who were running and fundraising for people they lost to violence.

Earlier this month, the last Mudderella event of the season was held in Temecula, CA, in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It was perfect timing to celebrate the first year of a successful partnership. Amid all of the news about domestic violence in professional sporting leagues like the NFL, it’s refreshing to be a part of an athletic event that promotes empowerment, healthy relationships, and respect.

We’re so proud to be a partnered with Mudderella, and can’t wait for next year! Keep an eye out for upcoming events in 2015 at the Mudderella website. In the meantime, learn more the partnership, exciting fundraising incentives, and more on our website.

Check out a few snapshots from this year’s events!

Team Respect running the first event of the year! Its was a muddy good time.

Our installation called “Turning Pain into Power” which featured Mudderella participant stories about domestic violence, and what the cause means to them.