Bethpage, NY - June 29, 2016 - Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today joined with a decorated wounded veteran from Operation Iraqi Freedom, local veterans, service dogs and corporate sponsors to announce the 2nd Annual Long Island Run and Dog Walk benefiting America’s VetDogs – an organization that provides specially-trained guide and service dogs to disabled veterans, active-duty service members and disabled first responders. The event will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2016.
County Executive Mangano stated, “Nassau County has teamed up with America’s VetDogs and corporate sponsors to support disabled military heroes and provide them the support needed to again live with pride and self-reliance. It takes thousands of dollars to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog, but America’s VetDogs provides their services completely free of charge to the individual.”
America’s VetDogs relies on voluntary contributions to fund its mission. It costs over $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog; however, there is never a charge to the individual. The following sponsors of the 2nd Annual Long Island Run and Dog Walk allow the organization to direct funds to supporting programs: Suez Environnement; D&B Engineers and Architects; BAE Systems; and CG/3PL.
Wells Jones, CEO of America’s VetDogs, said, “America’s VetDogs is excited to once again partner with Nassau County on this amazing event, which not only raises funds to meet our mission but also raises awareness and recognition from the community. It gives us the opportunity to reach out to disabled veterans and first responders and let them know about our assistance dog programs and the services we provide. We have created these programs to provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence, but most importantly, to give these men and women the tools they need to conquer the new challenges they face.”
U.S. Navy Corpsman Joseph Worley, who spent almost two years at Walter Reed Army Medical Center recovering from the loss of his left leg and other injuries suffered in Iraq in 2004, joined officials at the event to praise the work of America’s VetDogs. Worley was partnered with service dog Benjamin, a Golden Retriever in 2008, who is trained to help with balance, stability and retrieval.
About the 2nd Annual Long Island Run and Dog Walk:
The 2nd Annual Long Island Run and Dog Walk will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2016. Registration is currently open and available through the day of the event. Dogs are welcome for those who wish to take a leisurely walk with their four-legged friends. All participants will have an opportunity to visit the Museum of American Armor, which is located in the village, before or after the race. For more information regarding the event and to register online, please click here.