Ocean Of Love Receives Donation From Manchester Police

When the Manchester Township Police Department hosted its inaugural fitness challenge earlier this summer, it wasn’t just a chance for police officers to show off their fitness -- it was a fundraiser as well.

On Wednesday, Ocean of Love, the charity that assists the families of children who are battling cancer, was presented with a donation from the money raised by the event, Capt. Todd Malland said.

Detective David Fusaro and Patrolman Charles Gatnarek, organizers of the Elite Law Enforcement Fitness Challenge held at Harry Wright Lake in June, presented Ocean of Love Assistant Director Theresa Segui with a check for $2,550.

“The fitness challenge was a nice idea as it united a bunch of local towns. It was also a unique idea for a fundraiser and we were very excited about it,” Segui said.

In total, nearly $6,000 was raised during the fitness challenge, which put officers through grueling physical tests. In addition to Ocean of Love, the funds will benefit the not-for-profit Manchester Township Police Foundation and its programs. The officers were proud to work together and compete for these worthy causes, Malland said.

“For our first year, we were more than happy with the turnout and the amount of money raised,” Gatnarek said.

The department is appreciative of everyone who participated and is looking forward to making the Elite Law Enforcement Fitness Challenge an annual event, Malland said.

To make a donation to Ocean of Love at any time, or to learn more about the organization, please visit their website at www.oceanoflove.org. More information about the Manchester Township Police Foundation is available through the “Police Foundation” link at www.manchesterpolicenj.com.

(Manchester Township Police Detective David Fusaro, left, and Patrolman Charles Gatnarek pose with Ocean of Love Assistant Director Theresa Segui. Credit: Manchester Township Police)