TCS New York City Marathon Benefiting FCA

In what will be my comeback race following a battle with prostate cancer, I'm running the New York City Marathon to benefit Long Island's needy families!

In the wee hours of November 6th, I will run through the 5 boroughs as I compete in the iconic New York City Marathon! I will cover the 26.2 miles as quickly as possible while raising vital funds for one of Long Island's oldest and most respected charities - Family and Children's Association (FCA).

Serving our community for more than 138 years, Family & Children's is dedicated to protecting and strengthening Long Island's most vulnerable children, seniors, families, and communities. I proudly became the organization's President/CEO in July, 2014 and was immediately struck by the comprehensive array of services offered by FCA along with the passion, intelligence and integrity of such a fine team. Among the services offered by FCA are the following:

• Nassau County's only shelter for runaway/homeless youth.
• A transitional residence for young adults.
• Two licensed substance abuse treatment centers.
• Three recovery centers
• A gun violence prevention program that employs staff with lived experience.
• A co-op nursery for moms in our substance abuse treatment program and recent immigrants.
• A mental health case management program for children and a respite program for their families.
• A full suite of senior citizen programs, including volunteer ombudspersons in nursing homes, bill payer services, case management services and more.
• Scholarships, vocational counseling, job training and placement.
• Case management for young people transitioning out of foster care.

FCA offers several other programs serving diverse populations, and all are laser-focused on strengthening individuals, families and communities. We offer one-stop shopping and immediate assistance for Long Island families, which means fewer barriers to care, lean and imaginative management and cost-effectiveness. In short, your donated dollar goes further at FCA.

I've taken on this challenge because I've seen first-hand how our staff at FCA change lives, how our volunteers pour their hearts and souls into making a difference and how a community coming together can achieve unbelievable things. Your support will propel me across the finish line on November 6th and provide a helping hand to your neighbors in need. I hope I can count on you!