1st Annual Walk for Wounded Vets

On November 14, 2010, the Tower of Hope held its first annual Walk for Wounded Veterans sponsored by Shoprite, and supported by many who are listed below. The guest of honor was Sgt. Bill White, who lost his right arm and leg in a service-related accident, and his service dog Rudy, who was funded by a grant from the Tower of Hope in July of this year. The Westchester County Executive, the Mayor of Yonkers, and several other dignitaries were on hand, as more than 200 walkers helped raise over $50,000, enough money to fund two service dogs for a deserving veteran. The weather was perfect, the crowd enthusiastic, and a memorable time was had by all participants. A special t-shirt was designed for the event, which the walkers wore proudly. Below are a few photos to commeorate this fabulous day:
County Exec Astorino starts the program
Mayor Amicone speaks with participants
Sgt. White and Rudy lead the way
Several participants along the way
Over 200 walkers helped raise funds for vets
The weather was great, the pace leisurely
Some young participants helping our veterans
Even service dogs need protection from the sun
SPONSORS:
We would sincerely like to thank the following companies who helped sponsor the event by donating goods and services, providing support, and helping to spread the word to assure our success:
Special thanks, once again, to Shoprite, who provided all the refreshments for our participants, sponsors and spectators!!! Additionally their leadership team was responsible for much of the advanced planning, equipment on site, advertising and print materials needed for this event.
We are thrilled that VCA Charities, the philanthropic arm of the largest provider of pet health care in the US was our Platinum Sponsor, having donated $2,500 to our walk.
In addition, we'd like to thank the following Business Champion Sponsors:
The Elks (several lodges combined) were our Gold Sponsors, having donated/raised in excess of $1,200, and were led by Dick Moore, past President of the NYS Elks Assoc.
Carmel Sports Association who generously decided to be our Silver Sponsor for the event with a donation of $750
The Journal News, who donated a massive advertising campaign for the Walk in the runup to the event
D. Bertoline & Sons Distributors, local distributors of Budweiser products for their fundraising on behalf of the Walk for Wounded Veterans and the Tower of Hope
The City of Yonkers Department of Veterans Affairs for engaging veterans organizations on our behalf
The Yonkers Historical Society which has worked tirelessly to promote the Walk
The Korean War Veterans Association, Chapter 9 for their active participation in the event
Sound Associates who have donated the sound systems that was used at the event
and especially all those that participated as walkers, their sponsors, and general donors, thank you all!