Belleville Unico Will Host Walkathon To Benefit ALS Families

BELLEVILLE, NJ — The Belleville UNICO Chapter will bring back its annual ALS Walkathon to benefit local families affected by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) – commonly known as “Lou Gehrig's Disease.”

The 2026 fundraising event will take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Belleville Senior Recreation Center, 125 Franklin Avenue. Learn more or register here.

Funds raised from this year's event will directly benefit two local organizations dedicated to assisting ALS families: the Robert Luongo ALS Fund (founded by Phil Cuzzi), and the PSZ Believe Foundation (founded by Stephen Zirpoli).

Both organizations provide meaningful support to families struggling with expenses associated with medical treatment, caregiving, transportation and daily living needs, the Belleville UNICO said.

According to a news release from the chapter, here is some background info about each group:

THE ROBERT LUONGO ALS FUND – “Robert Luongo, a Harvard graduate and father, was diagnosed in 2000 with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) He lost his battle with the disease on March 17, 2004, at the age of 49. There are many things that can be said about his success that would amaze you; however, there is one primary reason this fund was started by his good friend, MLB empire Phil Cuzzi and family. To create an educational trust fund for his then ten-year old daughter Dominique Luongo. Since that time the fund has met that goal and has exceeded all expectations. Through our annual sports dinner event and your support, they are able to make a difference in people’s lives. One hundred percent of the donations go towards patient care, such as wheelchairs, access ramps, chairlifts, and conversion vans for transportation. It provides scholarships to ALS victims' children as well as annual contributions for ALS research.”

THE PSZ BELIEVE FOUNDATION – “Paulette Zirpoli, mother of two with three grandsons was diagnosed in 2014 with ALS. She lost her battle with the disease on March 16, 2022, at the age of 64. Paulette’s love for others, her smile, her laugh and her faith were extraordinary. The reason for this fund was started by her family, was initially to pay for medical expenses, and later that it would bring other families in Essex County some hope, faith and love throughout their battle with ALS. The foundation now focuses on recognizing the need for either the Physical, Emotional, Spiritual or Financial Areas that this disease attacks. We try to meet people where the need most exists and serve the family within these most needed areas, as we partner with other associations and foundations.”

“Our community has always stepped forward to help those facing difficult circumstances, and this walkathon is another example of neighbors helping neighbors,” said the chapter’s president, Peter Caggiano.

For sponsorship opportunities, donations or volunteer information, contact Belleville.UNICO@gmail.com or 973-464-1222.

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