December 22nd, 2010:

In any volunteer organization, the people make the experience. At Back On My Feet Boston, one of the key people is Executive Director Vic Acosta. I interviewed Vic about the unique program, great volunteers, and how anyone can help.

Meg Reilly: What makes BOMF successful?

Vic Acosta: It’s a simple concept:  bringing community to people who otherwise wouldn’t have access. BOMF is truly the non-resident volunteers!

MR: Everyone is looking for volunteers; how does BOMF attract such great people?

VA: We do have the best people! I’m amazed everyday that people are out there so consistently.  The non-residents are managing and dealing with relationships in a way that’s different from other volunteer opportunities. BOMF volunteers directly engage and affect people by simply being who they are.

MR: I witness the great turnout in the early mornings, but it’s more than just showing up. From your perspective, what makes a great volunteer?

VA: The word volunteer doesn’t come up at BOMF.  “Volunteering” changes into having a relationship with someone in the shelter. It changes the whole concept of “volunteer”.

MR: I agree. When describing my involvement, I always say I’m running with a team.

VA: To volunteer anywhere is to help, but actual engagement doesn’t always play a factor.  That’s where we’re unique – the line of sight is extraordinary. Holding hands, putting your arms around the people you’re trying to help, and just being yourself. Our non-resident runners bring the positive, negative, and mediocre of themselves – and residents see a complete person. They can understand that no life is perfect.

MR: How can non-runners help?

VA: There are many ways to help.  We offer unpaid internships, and, as a lean organization, all interns have the opportunity of making an impact almost immediately.  Also, our funding is coming from the community.  Consider donations, contributions, connecting with businesses.  Our runners are working daily to earn their gear and grants.  There’s great value in a donation because it’s there and it has to be earned.

MR: So people can run, fundraise, anything else?

VA: Donations, “fundracing”, running, talking about the program; all are critical.  One thing that’s important – and doesn’t happen often – is that cities talk to each other about how effective programs are.  Because we work in several cities, we speak often about what’s working and build from that.

MR: What do you think are the best and worst parts about Boston?

VA: Native New Yorker – tough question!  What I love about Boston is that it’s a city you can put your arms around.  It’s not so big that you have no hope of making an impact. If I could change one thing, I would make it more accessible. I don’t know if it’s the New England character, but it takes longer to access the warmth we all carry.

MR: You were just named Boston’s Executive Director.  What’s next?

VA: I’m excited!  The role has me dealing a lot more with relationships, funding, and building community support.  After 6 months here, we’re an established & known entity. My mission is to broaden accessibility to both shelters and people who want to help. BOMF is a very unique way of caring about each other and we want as many people having access to that.