ORLANDO, Fla. — Miles to Go Charities is a nonprofit started after a boy asked his mom for money to give to someone in need.
Miles, the 9-year-old boy, co-founded the nonprofit to help people experiencing homelessness.
Now, it’s a 100%-volunteer organization that raises funds through events like an annual 5K. It is made possible by volunteers like Nathan Pokras, who said he got involved with hopes of making a difference.
Pokras loads item after item into bags to give to the homeless.
“We got shirts, clothes, socks,” Pokras said. “Just in case, we also have wipes and, of course, a poncho because Florida is rainy,” Pokras said.
He said being part of the nonprofit is special, and he is excited to give back to the community and the organization.
“I really appreciate what they’re doing for the homeless people, people experiencing homelessness, and it’s just, what they are doing is really great and I really love supporting them,” Pokras said.
Danielle Newbold, the chief executive officer of Miles to Go who also is Miles’ mom, said she loves seeing excited young people like Pokras get involved.
“It’s inspiring, right? And whenever we get tired or we think that what we’re doing is not creating change, they remind us that it is,” Newbold said. “Sometimes it takes a little while to see it, but their energy keeps it going.”
Right now, the organization is getting ready for one of its biggest fundraisers of the year, the Miles to Go 5K, which starts at 8 a.m. Sept. 19 at Bill Frederick Park in Orlando. Runners must register.
Last year, that event raised $100,000 to help the unhoused who receive services through other local charities.
“It’s kind of nice because I feel like my family kind of races to help others pay it forward,” said Jocelin Yau, who is Pokras’ mother. “So I really am so happy that he has that. I know it can make me cry.”