Team LADACIN runs in the NJ Marathon

Wanamassa: For the tenth consecutive year, Team LADACIN, comprised of 27 family, friends, supporters and staff members of LADACIN Network, ran in the New Jersey Marathon to show support and raise money for people with disabilities. The 5K run was held on April 27th. The Full and a Half Marathon and a Four-Person Relay were held on April 28th.

Joseph Walker, formerly of Rumson, coordinated and established Team LADACIN after running the New York City Marathon for four years, raising money in support of LADACIN. He then brought his efforts and energy to the New Jersey Marathon, where he has been raising funds for the Agency for the past nine years. Walker’s brother Conor has attended the Schroth Center of LADACIN Network for education and therapy services for 24 years, and several Walker Family members and friends participate in the race each year. An annual post-race fundraising party was held at Patrick’s Pub in Neptune City, which included a fabulous lunch buffet. Music was provided by Chris Morrisy and Greg Dillow who kept the party goers singing along and dancing. Adding to the festivities was DJ Gotts of 95.9 WRAT as the Master of Ceremonies for the party, which also included a gift raffle. As a special treat the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh joined the fun in honor of Conor’s 35th birthday, providing several soothing melodies, including Happy Birthday, with their pipes and drums. This year’s event, including both the race and the after-party, raised over $36,000.

LADACIN volunteers helped to prepare for the race. Comprised largely of Brick Memorial High School’s National Honor Society, a group of over 50 enthusiastic individuals worked at the start line of the marathon.

LADACIN Network, a multi-faceted nonprofit, offers a comprehensive array of lifetime programs to infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays including child care and pre-school, early intervention, school programs, adult day programs, vocational training, supported employment, residential options, and respite programs. The Agency has been serving the community for more than 67 years and now serves over 3,500 families in 14 locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

For more information about LADACIN Network, please call Luisa Vroman, Director of Development and Community Relations at 732-493-5900 or visit the agency’s website at www.ladacin.org.