Meet Thomas Barker | Front Runners Atlanta President

We had the good fortune of connecting with Thomas Barker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Thomas, how does your business help the community?
Atlanta is know for having the highest new HIV transmission rates and income disparity in the country. Together, this combination can keep certain community members from being able to not only access proper healthcare but also escape the cycle of poverty. Funds raised by FRATL directly assists impacted community members who may have to choose between housing and HIV medication. We are working to ensure no one ever has to choose between their health and having a roof over their head. Additonally, the club itself has become a safe space and second home for many members. I’ve seen numerous people gain more confidence and become comfortable with themselves as a result of joining and being part of community that celebrates them for being who they are.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
A few years ago, FRATL was almost dissolved, which would have effectively ended the Pride Run. I knew that if Atlanta has the largest metro LGBTQIA+ population as well as the second largest track club behind NYC, there is no reason FRATL couldn’t prosper, grow, and continue to make an impact in the city. Under new leadership and an enhanced strategic direction, we went from 30 paying members in 2018 to 200 in 2022. Additionally, the Pride Run grew from 350 runners in 2017 to 1,500 runners by the end of last year. Within the club, our members have come out, built meaningful relationships, and truly found their voices. Probably the most notable point of success, FRATL has increased donations from $8,000 to $93,000 last year. This tremendously impacts vulnerable populations in our community and shwos the3 strength of our community when we come together for a common goal and purpose.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the best aspects of Atlanta is that it’s a diverse and cultured city with so much to offer in terms of attractions, entertainment, food & dinning, LGBTQIA+ spaces, and so much more. My main recommendations would be to explore the Beltline, featuring numerous restaurants, breweries, bars, workout studios, coffee shops & cafes, and attractions; Atlanta is also known as the cradle of the Civil Rights movement, so a trip to both the National Center for Civil & Human Rights in addition to the MLK National Historic Park is a must; finally, take an afternoon to visit the various cultural museums around town, including the HIGH Museum of Art, APEX, and the Breman.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank D.J. Pulce and the entire Front Runners Atlanta (FRATL) Board for providing so much continual support. As we have built up the organization as well as the landmark, annual 5K Pride Run, I don’t believe we’d be as prominent as we are today without their help, knowledge, and drive. We are a nonprofit that runs on people’s donated time and efforts. Without our community, we would be in a much different postion than we are today. Our growth over these past few years has been astronomical, allowing us to raise more money and as a result give back more to the community.

Website: frontrunnersatlanta.org

Instagram: @Frontrunnersatl

Other: TIKTOK: @Frontrunnersatl

Image Credits
DJ Pulce