This week’s Ambassador Award goes to Lisa Black. Lisa is a diehard volunteer that has been with Team Ortho since 2008 and has been a tremendous help prepping for the upcoming Minneapolis Duathlon. We asked Lisa a few questions about why she enjoys volunteering.

TO: What is the most satisfying part of volunteering?
LB: The most satisfying part of volunteering is knowing that what I do makes such a positive impact on both the participants and the event. I love talking to a first time racer, sharing my experiences, and seeing them head off to the start line with a smile, feeling more confident about what they are about to accomplish.  You will often hear a Team Ortho staff member say that they could not put these events on without all of the volunteers and how much they need us. After volunteering for several events, I have a much better understanding of this. They really mean it! I am always amazed at how much has to come together and how many volunteers it takes for these races to be flawless. I am proud to be part of that group.

TO: How did you first become active in Team Ortho events?
LB: My first Team Ortho race was the 2008 Monster Dash 5K. I ran it with a group from work and had a great time. A few weeks later, I decided it was time to tackle my first half marathon and since the Monster Dash had been so much fun, the inaugural Minneapolis Marathon (and Half Marathon) set for the spring was the obvious choice. I was really nervous to be facing this experience alone. I quickly learned that choosing a Team Ortho event mean that I was not in this alone after all! Not only did they provide a suggested training routine but they also had training sessions on Saturday mornings to help me through the longer runs. There was always someone available with a smile, helpful advice, and of course water or sport drink to make sure I made it through. On race day, I saw people I had trained with and felt much less nervous. After such positive experiences, I am hooked on Team Ortho!

TO: What is it about Team Ortho that makes you want to volunteer your time to our foundation?
LB : Team Ortho played a crucial role in helping me train for my first half marathon and my first full marathon. From standing out in the rain until I finished my longest training run ever to John Larson standing at the top of the last hill on race day with a huge smile encouraging every runner to have the courage to finish, a Team Ortho volunteer was always there to see me through to the end. Team Ortho is so much more than just an event organizer. How could I not want to be a part of that? I was so impressed and appreciative that I wanted to be a part of helping Every Body to become active. The people who volunteer with Team Ortho are an amazing group. I have met runners of every level and have made some wonderful friends. I always look forward to the next Team Ortho event to catch up with friends and help make the next Team Ortho event a huge success.

TO: Do you have any recommendation on how to recruit people to have an active lifestyle?
LB: I try to encourage others to become active through my own activity. My friends and family watched me go from an overweight couch potato to completing my first marathon. At first, they
thought I was crazy. Now, they know I am crazy – crazy about running and being active. Many of them are now leading more active lifestyles. Encourage people to take a risk and try for that goal they never thought they could achieve. Better yet, offer to do it with them! It is always more fun to reach a new goal with a friend. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the encouragement of my friends and family.

Lisa has spent countless hours volunteering and as a thank you, we will be sending her a Team Ortho Fleece.