We have been so incredibly fortunate to bask in staffer Polly's bright light all these years at the store! We will miss her greatly but are also thrilled to watch her embark on her next exciting life chapter. We all know she will be running, hiking, visiting family, playing with grandbabies and exploring far and wide, while bringing that joyous smile with her wherever she goes and sharing it with everyone she encounters. Here's a message from Polly:
“It was the Summer of 1999. I walked into a new store in town called Fairhaven Runners to check it out and see about getting a new pair of running shoes. Steve (owner) and Craig (manager) were both in the store, and the sincerity and enthusiasm in which I was greeted and talked with remains today. I walked out with a pair of Mizuno Wave Riders, and I felt like I had found "my place". I ran my first half marathon a few months later and couldn't wait to go back into FR to tell them about my race! I began working there four years later.
I felt like I got to be part of a unique and important place in our community: so much more than a “running/walking” store. We didn’t just sell shoes – we helped nurture that part of a person that strives to "get out", to exercise (in whatever way that looks for someone) to feed that part of the person that sometimes gets lost in all the "noise" around them. We helped people find out how to move their bodies forward which in turn loosened their stress. I loved being part of a "place" where we could understand, encourage and listen to people’s stories.
It was such a joy to work with such an amazing staff. I always felt so well taken care of as an employee while also enjoying the company and friendship of so many kind coworkers over the years.
Working with customers and hearing their goals gave me so much inspiration each day. Our customers have such a wide breadth of needs. I loved working with people who just wanted to be fitted in shoes that would allow them to walk around the block without discomfort or pain! I loved helping crazy ultra runners and hearing what their next unbelievable adventure might be. This variety of people are what make up the community of Fairhaven Runners. A place where all belong, all are welcome, all are encouraged. That is what I will remember about my days as part of the staff at FR. It truly has been my honor and privilege to work in such a special place.”
“Keep the faith, keep love in your heart. See you on the trails!" – Polly
