2007 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike!

Part of the Journey... Pictorial Part of the Journey... Been a long time a'comin! Six years ago, I started backpacking. During my hikes along all the trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I discovered a lot about myself. I learned to live better – one step at a time, one day in front of the other. I also kept crossing the Appalachian Trail. Hiking 2,175 miles through 14 states seemed daunting with all its peaks and valleys. Shelter from a storm... Last year, I had the opportunity through my church here in East Tennessee to visit the women’s shelter in Knoxville, Serenity, which is operated by Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries (KARM). KARM provides meals and shelter to the homeless and needy in the Knoxville area. They have special places for women that need a refuge because they have no where else to go. During these visits, I had the privilege of meeting a few ladies that are struggling and recovering from bad decisions. The only difference, I realized, between me and these women is different bad decisions. They struggle to gain stable residences and jobs, but each one has a chance to gain a healthy life and build a strong relationship with Jesus. Their own road to recovery has its shares of highs and lows. I am not alone in the wilderness... I used this hike as an opportunity to help the women at the Serenity Shelter, which is operated solely on donations from the surrounding community. They offer programs to help women regain stable homes and jobs within the community. During my visits to the shelter, I have seen women overcome addiction and abuse. It takes $12,000 to put 1 woman through 6-month program. If you give a financial gift, you are helping the Serenity shelter continue to give opportunities for women to change their lives.	Comin down the mountain...
If you are interested in giving, please go to KARM's website. One-hundred percent of the proceeds will go directly to KARM. I covered my own trip-related equipment, food, and expenses with my personal finances. Thank you for your interest, support, and prayers! Sincerely yours, Kristina Dean
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