MEDFORD, N.Y.–A vice president at Suffolk Federal Credit Union is again running seven marathons in seven days to raise funds for veterans.
Eva Casale, VP-information technology with Suffolk FCU, will be running 184 miles over seven days to raise money and awareness for “Hope for The Warriors” as part of what she calls “Every Veteran Appreciated (Eva) Week,” April 21-27.
Casale, who also ran the seven marathons in seven days in 2017, shared her thoughts on what the experience is like in a profile in CUToday.info.
Once again this year, each marathon will be focused on honoring local servicemen killed in action and will be linked to communities they called home.
“I have a unique ability to run long distances, so I am using my passion for running to help others by supporting and honoring our veterans,” said Casale. “I have created Team E.V.A. which stands for ‘Every Veteran Appreciated,’ to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our country. It’s an honor for me to organize and run this event and to know that I can bring people together to take part in such an important mission.”
For the first time this year, Team E.V.A. will be expanding into Nassau County. The credit union said one of its priorities is to support and give back to the communities the credit union serves.
“Long Island is home to many veterans here in New York State,” said CEO Ralph D. Spencer. “For this reason—and as a United States Air Force veteran—I believe that supporting our community’s veterans is not just a choice, but a responsibility. We are honored to be the lead sponsor of Eva and are proud to support her mission—not just to raise funds, but to bring attention to the needs of these brave men and women and their families who sacrifice so much. We invite our members and the extended community to join us in April as we cheer on Team E.V.A. with her seven-day journey.”
This year’s marathons Opening Ceremonies will take place at the Huntington Elks Lodge #1565. From there the team will begin their marathons in Northport, Eisenhower Park/Nassau Coliseum, Shelter Island, Sag Harbor, Miller Place, Middle Island, Glen Cove, along the South Shore including West Babylon, Lindenhurst, Amityville, Bellmore, Merrick and more, Brookhaven and Medford. The Closing Ceremonies will take place at Suffolk Federal’s headquarters in Medford as Eva and her team completes the last marathon.
The credit union said Casale is also inviting communities and their residents to proudly display their American flag to show support for the troops, veterans and fallen heroes as each marathon takes place. The public will also be able to check FaceBookdaily on Suffolk Federal’s page or to the Team Eva page for the link to GLIMPSE where Eva and the team can be tracked during the marathon each day using the hashtag #WheresEva
Anyone who visits any Suffolk Federal branch between April 2 through April 27 to donate between $5-10 will receive a special gift, the CU said.