Building Homes for Heroes’ 5K Walk/Run returned to Eisenhower Park on April 4, drawing runners, families and community members together in support of injured veterans and first responders. The event combined fundraising with outreach, as organizers aimed to expand awareness of the nonprofit’s mission while building on momentum from last year’s race.
Building Homes for Heroes, based in Island Park, Building Homes for Heroes was formed in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, when founder Andy Pujol volunteered in search and rescue efforts at Ground Zero. What began as an effort to gift a single home to a returning veteran has since grown into a national organization that has provided hundreds of mortgage-free homes. The nonprofit is now on track to complete its 500th home by the end of 2026.
Beyond housing, the organization offers long-term support to veterans and their families, including financial advisory services, emergency funding and programming focused on mental health, academic advancement and physical wellness. When homes are gifted, the celebrations often bring together local police and fire departments and community members for large, procession-style welcome events.
The race itself is part of a renewed push to strengthen the nonprofit’s presence on Long Island. Last year marked the first time in roughly a decade that Building Homes for Heroes hosted a run locally, and organizers said the response exceeded expectations. About 195 runners participated in the 2025 event despite steady rain and cold conditions, demonstrating a strong level of community support.
David Weingrad, the organization’s director of communications, said much of that success was due to Daniel Hernandez, a Marine veteran and staff member who helped bring the race back.
“There’s always going to be things you learn on the spot,” Weingrad said. “He was all over the place, and people were pulling him in every direction — he did an amazing job. I think it was a testament to how much people care about our cause and our mission.”
Hernandez, who joined the organization in 2019, began running during the coronavirus pandemic and has since used the activity as a way to raise awareness and funds for veterans. In addition to organizing the race, he has taken on personal endurance challenges to spotlight issues affecting the veteran community.
In November, Hernandez ran one mile every hour and completed 22 pushups between each mile to raise awareness about veteran suicide rates. The effort began in Eisenhower Park and continued through the night, ending the following day in Long Beach.
“I am growing to love running,” Hernandez added. “I just thought this is a great challenge. Our veterans are suffering. For me, taking one day to support them means a lot.”
Organizers said hosting the event at Eisenhower Park continues to play a key role in expanding visibility for the nonprofit. While Building Homes for Heroes has a national reach, many residents are still unaware that it was founded on Long Island and continues to operate locally.
“We just had our 20th anniversary, but so many people don’t know that we’re a Long Island grown organization,” Weingrad said. “When people learn that Building Homes for Heroes is based right here in their backyard, that’s what makes them want to be generous.”
That local connection was evident throughout this year’s event, and warmer, drier conditions made for a great time. The event featured a Kids Fun Run followed by the main race, along with raffles and other fundraising opportunities. Participants of all ages took part, and organizers said the mix of competition and community engagement reflects the broader goal of bringing people together in support of those who have served.
“The weather was perfect — better than last year,” Hernandez said. “There was a lot of laughs and smiles. I think for the most part, everyone had a great time.”
As the event continues to grow, organizers hope to keep the 5K going as an annual tradition on Long Island, further strengthening ties between the nonprofit and the communities it serves while continuing to raise funds for veterans in need.
“The community really came together for this one and it gives me hope to improve and expand on it,” Hernandez added.
Visit BuildingHomesForHeros.org to donate and to learn more about the organization, reach and impact on communities across the U.S.
