MEDFORD, N.Y.–For the fourth year in a row, the vice president at a credit union here ran the equivalent of seven marathons over seven days to raise money in support of veterans.
Eva Casale, SVP-information technology with Suffolk FCU and an extreme distance runner, raised more than $30,000 to help veterans as the result of literally going the distance. In all, Casale ran more than 192 miles over the course of seven days, with the distance including some extra stops.
Each day’s marathon focused on honoring local servicemen killed in action and was linked to the communities they called home, SFCU reported. In total, Team EVA (“Every Veteran is Appreciated”) made more than 139 stops and delivered over 300 flowers at Points of Honor throughout Long Island.
‘Heartfelt Running Tour’
“This was a heartfelt running tour of over 192 miles which enabled me to utilize my passion for running to bring Long Islanders together to support programs and services for veterans and to acknowledge how much ‘Every Veteran is Appreciated,’” explained Casale. “We were excited that our journey concluded in May during National Military Appreciation Month to further support the mission of honoring and acknowledging those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our country and to ensure that we never forget.”
Suffolk Federal said it once again supported Casale’s mission by serving as lead sponsor, a commitment which further strengthens the Suffolk Federal mission to support Long Island’s residents and local veterans. During the closing ceremony, Suffolk Federal presented Casale with a check for $15,000 and officially announced that the Suffolk Federal branches raised an additional $4,700.
“It is an honor to support Eva with her efforts to raise funds and awareness for the brave men and women who have served our country and have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom,” said Suffolk FCU President/CEO Ralph D. Spencer, who is an Air Force veteran. “At Suffolk Federal, we feel that it is our responsibility to show the same dedication and commitment to our veterans and their families that they have shown to serving our country.”
The Marathon Route
This year’s marathons began at the Huntington Elks Lodge, continuing through Huntington, Centerport, Commack, Northport, LI National Cemetery, Eisenhower Park, Shelter Island, Sag Harbor, Calverton, Westhampton, Oyster Bay, Bayville, Glen Cove, Brookhaven, Patchogue, Medford and Long Island’s South Shore.
According to SFCU, Casale ran the last of her 192 miles arriving at an enthusiastic closing ceremony that took place at the Copiague Fire Department as Casale and Team EVA completed their final marathon.
Highlights of the effort included Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone joining the Team to run part of a marathon, a welcome reception in Glen Cove with Glen Cove Mayor Tim Tenke, a surprise welcome with east end veterans in Westhampton at the Westhampton VFW, a heartfelt visit at the 106th Rescue Wing, and a visit to the Brookhaven Town Hall where Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine invited Casale and the Team to the Town Board meeting and presented Eva with a proclamation.
Proceeds from the effort went to Hope for the Warriors, a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a sense of self, family and hope to service members, their families, and families of the fallen.