Nearly 200 people laced up their running shoes Saturday morning at Baldwin Park to support local veterans organizations during the annual “Run for Heroes” 5K, raising more than $25,000 for VFW and American Legion posts across Nassau County’s South Shore.
The event, hosted by Assemblyman Brian Curran, benefits veterans’ facilities in six communities: Rockville Centre, Malverne, Lynbrook, Baldwin, Freeport and East Rockaway.
“I am so grateful for everyone who came out to raise money for our veterans,” Curran said. “I take great pride in honoring those who protect our freedoms, and as an assemblyman, this is an event I look forward to every year, and I am always blown away by how successful it is. I know the funds raised will be put to good use to help serve our wonderful veterans.”
The fundraiser emerged amid a crisis in 2010, when three veterans’ buildings shuttered due to financial difficulties. After assuming office in 2011, Curran established the district-wide run to help veterans’ organizations cope with operational costs, including electricity, plumbing and maintenance.
The event pools all proceeds for distribution among participating communities, with allocations based on need rather than individual fundraising success. Each community typically receives between $5,000 and $10,000 for their local veteran groups.
Frank Colón, commander of the American Legion Post No. 303 in Rockville Centre, expressed his gratitude for the community’s support.
“It went really great,” Colón said about the annual ‘Run for Heroes’ 5K event on Saturday. “The kids all had a great time.”
The success of this year’s event relied heavily on the collaborative efforts across various posts, according to Colón, who acknowledged the contributions of several key organizers.
“It was a team effort,” he said. “All the American Legion posts and VFWs in the district worked together.”
Colón specifically recognized Post 303 Vice Commander Paul Casazza, Robert Kipp and Jim Keane for their work in securing donations.
This event has become a cornerstone within the Assembly district’s veteran community. Each year it brings together runners, walkers and supporters of all ages. Not only does it help raise crucial funds, it strengthens community bonds while honoring those who served.