Jen.PNG)
2nd New York City Marathon
Teacher, Kings Park Central School District
Jen is grateful to be on United Way of Long Island’s Team Mission United, raising funds for veterans and those affected by COVID-19 in her community.
In 2020, the New York City Marathon was cancelled due to the pandemic. Despite this, Jen remained committed to fundraising for her community during their time of need; she also participated in the 2020 virtual run hosted by United Way. This year, she’s ready to continue representing Team Mission United when she races in the 2021 New York City Marathon.
With the aftermath of the COVID-19 onset, Jen has faced her own share of complications throughout this time as her family faced a frightening period when her husband battled the illness himself. Personally affected by the pandemic, Jen knew first-hand how disruptive this health and economic crisis can be on families. Her situation was challenging, but she was very lucky as it was not dire; she recognized that thousands of Long Islanders were at rock bottom…so she and her daughter reached out to United Way to help in any way that they could.
Jen joined Team Mission United to raise funds, and her daughter volunteered for the not-for-profit to help get gift cards into the hands of those who needed assistance. Jen feels fortunate for her circumstances and the strengthened bond in her family despite the difficulties of this time.
Along with dealing with the health crisis, her commitment to raising funds is also an expression of her gratitude for the veterans of Long Island, as her father served in Vietnam. Jen has always felt particularly supportive of the military. “There is nothing more noble, especially as a young person, than to serve your country. They should be taken care of… veterans should have 100% support forever.”
With all the disappointments caused by the current circumstances, Jen’s commitment to recognizing the members of her community in need is definitely inspiring.
Jen's words of motivation for fellow Long Islanders:
“I know people want to be heard, not forgotten. Know that your hardships are not forgotten.”
“Other people are there for you. Even donating money, if they know how to help, they will.”