BluePath Service Dogs’ Second Annual Walkathon Raises $100,000

Yorktown Heights, N.Y. (May 24, 2018) – On Saturday, May 19, hundreds of walkers came out to support BluePath Service Dogs at the organization’s second annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. The family-friendly fundraiser raised more than $100,000 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 an enormous increase in diagnoses from 2000 (1 in 150) to today (1 in 59). 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. Our sponsors, volunteers and supporters make it possible for us to do what we do; we are grateful to each of them for walking the path with us.”

BluePath recently completed its first full year of operation with a focus on building a world-class brand, engaging passionate supporters, establishing a robust Puppy Raising Program, and creating a vast network of volunteers and industry partners.

The nonprofit’s second annual walkathon received support from the following sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor: Croton Lions Club

Platinum Sponsors: A. DeVito & Son, AvalonBay Communities, CLG Construction, Co-Communications, Elite Carriers, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, and the Shrub Oak International School

Gold Sponsors: D’Gabby Fine French Cuisine, The Neva and Howard Goldstein Family Charitable Fund, G.S. Bounce, Hudson Valley Men's Adult Baseball League, NexGard / Heartgard, The Quinn Law Firm, Peekskill Rotary Club, State Farm - Ken Lemenze, Team Michelangelo, and Volz Auto

Silver Sponsor: Animal Specialty Center, Au Pair in America, City of Rye Police Association, Croton Animal Hospital, Decker Tool Rental, Hudson Financial Group - Deborah Becker, Hudson Highlands Veterinary Medical Group, J&J Ferraro Real Estate, Kolmar Americas Inc., Middletown Veterinary Hospital, Taconic Route 202 24 Hour Veterinary Center, Women's Eagles 1042, and The Westchester Bank

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.

PHOTO CAPTION: On Saturday, May 19, future BluePath autism service dog “Puppy #24” joined more than 250 walkers who came out to support BluePath Service Dogs at the organization’s second annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. Photo credit: Samantha Okazaki.

PHOTO CAPTION: Left to right: BluePath Board chair Tricia Zarro and son Danny (of Ossining) cut the ribbon to kick off BluePath Service Dogs’ second annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. Photo credit: Samantha Okazaki.

PHOTO CAPTION: Even the rain couldn’t damper the smiles on these adorable walkers at BluePath Service Dogs’ second annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. Photo credit: Samantha Okazaki.