A simple pair of shoes can go a long way.

For Baldwin Bone & Joint, it's a mission that has spanned more than two decades.

The Daphne-based orthopedic practice's Many More Miles Campaign was recently named a finalist for Business Alabama's Philanthropic Project of the Year after collecting a record-breaking 5,000 pairs of shoes in 2024 to help those in need.

The campaign, which ran from Jan. 8 through March 12, marked its 21st consecutive year of providing new and gently used footwear to local charities. It partnered with Baldwin County Public Schools, City Hope Church, St. Michael Catholic High School and Bayshore Christian School to collect donations.

"We are beyond thrilled with the outpouring of support for this cause and are proud of 21 years of Many More Miles," said Will Wiggins, executive administrator at Baldwin Bone & Joint. "Finding homes for over 5,000 pairs of shoes annually is something all of us in Baldwin County can get behind and we sincerely appreciate all who participate! Thank you to Baldwin County schools, businesses, churches and residents for supporting helping those in need."

SCHOOLS STEPPED UP

Students at Baldwin County schools played a major role in the campaign's success. Participating schools included Fairhope East Elementary, Fairhope West Elementary, J. Larry Newton Elementary, Rockwell Elementary, Spanish Fort Elementary, Spanish Fort Middle, Bayshore Christian, Bayside Academy and St. Michael Catholic High School.

To encourage participation, Baldwin Bone & Joint awards cash prizes to the top three schools that collected the most shoes, with the funds supporting physical education programs. The class that donated the highest number of shoes earns a Chick-fil-A party, and the teacher receives a cash prize sponsored by City Hope Church.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND BENEFICIARIES

In addition to school collections, drop-off sites included Baldwin Bone & Joint's offices in Daphne, Spanish Fort and Foley, as well as White-Spunner Realty, McCoy Outdoors and the USA Student Recreation Center.
The donated shoes will benefit a range of local organizations, including Empowering People, McKemie Place, Waterfront Rescue Mission, the Salvation Army, Baldwin County Foster Parents Association, Fostering Together Gulf Coast, Baldwin Family Village, City Hope Homeless Ministry and The Dream Center. Schools across Baldwin County will also receive shoes to stock their clothing closets for students in need.

For more information about the campaign, call (251) 656-3843 or visit www.baldwinboneandjoint.com.