Montclair Family to Compete Aug 7 in Triathalon to Help Homeless Youth

On Sunday August 7th, three Montclair residents will combat youth homelessness while representing Covenant House’s Home Team in the Nautica NYC Triathlon. Joining together as a family to compete in the Triathlon are the Cannons, long-time supporters of Covenant House.

Sisters Meghan and Suzanne of Montclair will participate alongside their mother Patty with the goal of raising critical funds for Covenant House. Their father, Bill Cannon, began the Home Team program to help support the mission and fundraising efforts of Covenant House through athletic endeavors. The Home Team has raised nearly $400,000 since it first started participating in endurance sports.

Megan said, “My father has been a runner since the day I was born. Growing up, we would go to all his marathons and races and cheer him on. When the NYC Marathon began their charity program, my father’s interest in running, as well as his interest in helping Covenant House kids, seemed like a match made in heaven.

She continued, “I am so lucky to come from a family that is extremely active and also values running for a cause. We all want to do well, we all want to run for the Home Team and we all understand that this is a team effort and that we all play a part.” Megan will be completing the swim portion, Suzanne will do the bike portion and their mother will pull up the rear as the team’s runner.

When asked about her commitment to the Home Team, Suzanne said, “It has been a family effort. My brothers, older sister, and parents have all joined the efforts. It is a unique experience to be able to share with my entire family--it is like a team within a team. It really shows how energy, enthusiasm, and a connection to a cause can be contagious. I've learned from my family and others that have chosen to support Covenant House that it's both important and rewarding to give back and be passionate about something that helps others.”

The Cannon family feels strongly about Covenant House’s mission to help homeless youth. “Covenant House transforms the lives of people who deserve a fighting chance,” Megan said. “A kid in need doesn't only need a place to sleep; they need love, support and the resources to get back out there on their own. Covenant House does all that and more. From the beginning, the Home Team has been a great platform to get people involved in this charity.”

Suzanne added, “I have been extremely blessed in every aspect of my life. I feel very lucky and it's important for me to express my gratitude by giving back and supporting the youth at Covenant House. In the same way that the youth have motivated me to work through difficult times, I hope to also serve as motivation to them that anything is possible--even 26.2 miles.”

Jill Rottmann, Covenant House New Jersey’s Executive Director said, “We are truly blessed to have families like the Cannons who join together as a team to help us fight against youth homelessness. We are so thankful for their love, dedication and fundraising efforts, which have touched the lives of so many Covenant House kids.”

The Home Team consists of supporters, staff and donors who participate in a variety of athletic competitions to raise money and awareness for Covenant House. To join the Home Team for an upcoming endurance event, or for more information please contact Gina at 973.286.3400 or gbutler@covenanthouse.org.