Yorktown Heights—There was not a cloud in the sky for The Mental Health Association of Westchester’s (MHA) 2013 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Kids’ Race held at FDR State Park and spirits were high for the 450 people who attended. The morning raised more than $45,000 for MHA’s programs and services.
WCBS-TV’s Lou Young reprised his role as emcee for the sixth year and was given an award for his dedication and generosity. Mr. Young was assisted by Miss Hudson Valley, Jessica Pinckney. While the runners and walkers were finishing their races, local singer-songwriter, Jessica Lynn, had participants tapping their feet to songs from her new album.
Peer Support Specialist, Teresia Cramer, spoke to the crowd about the difference MHA has made in her life, sharing: “Six months ago, I was living in a shelter. Today, I have an apartment, have completed a training program and have been hired by MHA to help others in their recovery. I am here to tell you, recovery IS possible!”
The top overall male runners were Philip Benson of Cortlandt Manor (20:24), Michael Racanello of Cortlandt Manor (20:25)) and Fredrick Lent, Jr. of Yonkers (20:52). Top overall female winners were Elizabeth Olsen of Cortlandt Manor (22:17), Nicole Guenkel of Wappingers Falls (22:24) and Judy Rubin of White Plains (22:49).
Interim Board President, Michael Lombardi, was very pleased: “The Run/Walk is a great opportunity to share and celebrate with the community we serve and to get the word out that help is available wherever you live.”
MHA is a community-based mental health agency that has been helping Westchester County residents for 67 years through direct services, professional and community education and advocacy. MHA supports 20,000 individuals annually through a comprehensive array of mental health services striving to help each individual to achieve their personal goals and to lead independent, healthy and successful lives. . For information on critical mental health issues and MHA services visit www.mhawestchester.org or MHA on Facebook and Twitter.
