Foundation Challenges 200 Cities to Declare Extra Mile Day

Feb. 27, 2011 - PRLog -- One ideology for which mayors from both sides of the political aisle can agree is the power of the “go the extra mile” message.  Mayors from across the United States are coming together in association with the Extra Mile America Foundation (http://www.extramileamerica.org/) to declare November 11, 2011, Extra Mile Day.  In a time when so many are demanding change and more opportunities, mayors are reminding people that individuals and organizations have the power to create personal change through their willingness to do more, work harder and go the extra mile.

“We all talk about wanting change…happiness…more opportunity,” says Extra Mile America Foundation (http://www.extramileamerica.org/) Executive Director, Shawn Anderson. “However, relying on others to make that happen is only wishing for life to get better. Taking personal responsibility…and going the extra mile individually…is where true success is found.”

In total, the Extra Mile America Foundation has set a goal of having 200 U.S. cities declare November 1, 2011, as “Extra Mile Day.”

“Times are tough for many people…no doubt. But the ‘go the extra mile’ message gives people an alternative to just throwing their arms in the air and saying, ‘I give up,’” Anderson says. “We all have the choice when times get tough to dig deep…do more…try harder…and affect practically every area of our life in a positive way.”

First spreading the “go the extra mile” message across the U.S. in 2009, Anderson used a symbolic 4,000-mile ocean-to-ocean bike ride. On the ride, the 47-year-old, non-bicyclist created motivational events in 21 national cities. At these events, Anderson interviewed over 200 people who had been recognized as going the extra mile in overcoming personal setback or who had risked everything in order to accomplish something extraordinary. After the ninety-day tour, Anderson personally gave away $10,000 to those people whose stories he found especially inspiring. After the tour, he kept the “go the extra mile message” in the forefront by founding the Extra Mile America Foundation.

“I have spent time with people who overcame tragedy…and created something great. I have spent time with others who built extraordinary organizations based on their passion alone. All of these people succeeded in walking life’s hot coals…and they all succeeded in coming across to the other side determined to make a real life difference.” Anderson says. “We each can do the same….no matter what we may be experiencing.”

To get Extra Mile Day declared in your city, or to potentially have Anderson keynote a “go the extra mile” event for your organization or community, contact info@ExtraMileAmerica.org.

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Shawn Anderson is a writer, success coach and motivational speaker. His ability to produce winning results has been acknowledged by national leaders, Gold Medal and world record holders, & media outlets across the country. He is the author of five books.