BluePath Service Dogs’ First Annual Walkathon Raises $80,000

Yorktown Heights, N.Y. (May 25, 2017) – On Saturday, May 20, hundreds of walkers came out to support BluePath Service Dogs at the organization’s first annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. The family-friendly fundraiser raised more than $80,000 to further BluePath’s mission of providing autism service dogs, offering safety, companionship and opportunities for independence.

According to the Autism Society, more than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. It is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, with a 119.4 percent increase in diagnoses from 2000 (1 in 150) to today (1 in 68). Walkathon attendees had the opportunity to meet the puppies of BluePath and learn more about how the nonprofit is unlocking life's potential for children and families touched by autism.

“We are all affected in some way and connected somehow to an individual with autism,” said Tricia Zarro, BluePath’s Board Chair. “Those who supported BluePath’s walkathon chose to take action and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others – and we are incredibly grateful. Our family’s autism service dog has meant my son’s journey is full of more joy, more safety and more social experiences then I could have ever imagined. We want to share that joy with as many families as possible.”

BluePath dogs significantly reduce parents’ safety concerns and help children to lead fuller lives. Reduced stress, improved sleeping routines, and more meaningful social interactions can allow families to feel a renewed sense of hope and empowerment.

“I am in awe of the incredible connection that a service dog can have with a child on the autism spectrum,” said BluePath President and CEO Jody Sandler. “These special relationships provide hope and the opportunity for the whole family to thrive. To all of the volunteers and donors supporting BluePath Service Dogs, you are the reason we can do what we do. Thank you all for walking the path with us.”

BluePath’s first annual walkathon has gained major support from the following sponsors:

Platinum Sponsors: A.Devito & Son, CLG Construction, Co-Communications, Elite Carriers, NexGard / Heartgard

Gold Sponsors: Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Hudson Valley Men's Adult Baseball League,, Quinn Law Firm, Shrub Oak International School, Taconic Route 202 24 Hour Veterinary Center, VCA - Animal Specialty Center and Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center

Silver Sponsor: Good Reasons, G & S Bounce, Volz Auto

Bronze Sponsors: City of Rye Police Association, Club Fit, Croton Animal Hospital, Decker Tool Rental, Hudson Highlands Veterinary Medical Group

BluePath Service Dogs, Inc. is located at 8 Country Club Road in Hopewell Junction. They can be reached at 845-377-0477 or by visiting www.bluepathservicedogs.org. For the latest news and updates, follow @BluePathServiceDogs on Facebook and @BluePathDogs on Instagram.

About BluePath Service Dogs, Inc.

BluePath Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2016 to provide autism service dogs, offering safety, companionship and opportunities for independence. The organization transforms lives by providing families with expanded opportunities to unlock life’s potential. BluePath relies on the generosity of donors and volunteers to fulfill its mission. For more information, visit www.bluepathservicedogs.org. Follow BluePath on Facebook at www.facebook.org/bluepathservicedogs.

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On Saturday, May 20, future BluePath autism service dog Roxy joined hundreds of walkers who came out to support BluePath Service Dogs at the organization’s first annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights.

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BluePath Board chair Tricia Zarro (far left) and family at BluePath Service Dogs’ first annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights.

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Event volunteer Erica Stanzione (of Putnam Valley) with BluePath co-founder Michelle Brier (of Bedford), Vice President of Marketing & Development, at BluePath Service Dogs’ first annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights.

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WNBA legend and former New York Liberty player Sue Wicks with future BluePath autism service dog Roxie at BluePath Service Dogs’ first annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights.