Today we’d like to introduce you to Blake Starr.
Hi Blake, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story starts in 2015 when I read a blog article on We Finish Together. I reached out to the founder, Kim and we clicked right away. Sadly, Kim passed away in 2019 from multiple terminal illnesses and I was left to run the organization myself. I made it a 501 3C and began taking in funds to pay for the shipping of medals and decorating supplies. We also increased our leadership and have chapters in 17 areas of the United States plus a presence in the UK, Ireland, and The Philippines.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been smooth. We are lucky in the area of collecting medals but finding places to donate them to hasn’t always been easy. Hospitals and other places were worried about germs on the medals and didn’t always understand how the medals shared strength from one person to the other.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We collect medals from athletes and other individuals around the country. We then write positive messages directly on the medal ribbons and attach handwritten notes of encouragement to them as well. Then, they are given to those who need strength, courage, bravery, and extra love. People who are facing a great life challenge and need to know they are not alone. We share our medals to share our strength so no one races the journey of life alone. Our personalization of the cards attached to the medals and written messages of positivity on the ribbons sets us apart from others!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Our founder Kim definitely deserves credit. Without her insight into others needing support during difficult times, we would not be where WE are today. My family are my biggest cheerleaders along with my chapter leaders. They all help me with ideas, let me read social media posts to them, and boost me up when I’m doubting my decisions. We recently added social media interns, and they are such incredible supporters and have brought our organization to a whole new level.
Contact Info:
- Email: Blake@wefinishtogether.org
- Website: Www.wefinishtogether.org
- Instagram: @wefinishtogether
- Facebook: We Finish Together
- Twitter: @wefinish2gether
- TikTok: wefinishtogether
