If I could be a fulltime volunteer, I would.
Jason Elmer is actually in the top 0.0000002% of the population and one of about 6,000 people who have donated a kidney in a year. Elmer is a non-directed, living kidney donor, which means that he is still alive and he donated his kidney to a random person in need. In 2019, after hearing of a family friend's need for a kidney, he prayed and decided to get tested for compatibility. During his testing the friend's mother ended up being a match, but that didn't stop Elmer.
“If I can give it to somebody, I’m going to,” Elmer said.
After completing about a week of intensive tests, Elmer was cleared to donate. The next day his name hit the registry and half an hour later he was matched. They went ahead with the surgery and the next thing you know he had one less kidney.
This spirit of giving and service is what drives Elmer everyday. He is the president of the Bowling Green Running Club, a certified running coach, an outfitter at Fleet feet and a father. Elmer claims that service is his spiritual gift and something that drives him everyday.
“Celebrating every step, giving back to others, it's really rewarding,” Elmer said.
In his capacities as President of the Bowling Green Running Club, Elmer plans events, leads group runs and coordinates club activities. At Fleet Feet he truly prides himself on making sure that every customer gets the right shoe for their feet. As a father he takes any chance he can get to volunteer or help his two daughters.
“It is my quiet time with God,” Elmer said.
Faith and mental health are very important to Elmer. He uses running as a form of therapy where he can get out of the house and spend time with his own thoughts and the lord. This time also serves as fuel for “being creative” in his job as a graphic designer.
Whether he’s lacing up for a morning run or walking alongside someone in need, Jason proves that impact isn’t measured by recognition, but by intention.
And sometimes, being in the top 0.0000002% simply means being 100% willing to give.
By working at Fleet Feet, Jason is able to combine two of his favorite things: helping others and running. Since Fleet Feet is non-commission it is truly important to him that the customers he sees get the right shoes for their needs.
Jason gets ready to start off the "Share the Love" 5k. As much as he loves to run himself he often takes a step back to provide others with a great time and experience. He also knows numerous runners by name and will stand at the finish line and to cheer them on one by one. Elmer aims to create a welcoming environment for runners of all levels.
Jason not only works the floor selling shoes at Fleet Feet but he also runs the Fleet Feet running group that meets weekly. "We will take anyone at their own pace, walking or running," Elmer said.