After founding and running a successful tax resolution company for nearly 50 years, Amy and Jesse Lothamer are looking forward to spending the upcoming years supporting a cause that has been close to their hearts since 2001.
The pair also have spent the last 26 years raising their two children, Jackie and Joshua. Their daughter, Jackie, was born with an intellectual disability, and has inspired the couple to become passionate advocates for inclusion and accessibility.
“One of the huge problems that intellectually disabled people have is that they don’t get the opportunity to provide a purposeful life,” said Amy. “They have a lot to give back too, but they lack the opportunity to do so.”
Once people with intellectual disabilities finish their schooling, there are typically limited resources available to continue supporting them and their families. It is difficult to find accessible opportunities that allow people with intellectual disabilities to work, grow and succeed.
Oftentimes, families utilize private residential communities for specialized programming and support, like the St. Louis Center in Chelsea, where Jackie currently lives. These residential communities provide a place of belonging and support for people with disabilities, but the programs can be a large investment.
To give back to the center that has shown them so much support, Amy and Jesse decided to launch The Barn Run, a 5K trail run and walk to raise money and support for the St. Louis Center. The race will take place Oct. 18 on the Lothamers’ property in Williamston and run along the Red Cedar River. Proceeds raised from the inaugural race will be donated to the St. Louis Center.
The race is just the start of Amy and Jesse’s mission, as they plan on starting a dedicated nonprofit organization that will help support adults with disabilities.
“We’re excited about this race because it’s going to provide an exciting way to bring awareness,” said Amy. “Our charity really wants to help provide people the chance to have purpose and live their lives to the fullest.”
The Barn Run registration is open now at runsignup.com/Race/MI/Williamston/TheBarnRun. Those interested in donating or sponsoring can contact Jesse Lothamer at jesselothamer@gmail.com.
Emily Walters
Emily Walters is the PR and content intern at M3 Group. She is currently a senior at Michigan State University studying public relations and writing. She is passionate about all things storytelling and board games. She resides in East Lansing.
