On Saturday, May 10, more than 500 people came out to support BluePath Service Dogs at the organization’s ninth annual walkathon at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. The family-friendly fundraiser raised more than $200,000 to further BluePath’s mission of providing autism service dogs, offering safety, companionship and opportunities for independence.
According to the Autism Society, more than 7 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder. It is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, with 1 in 31 children being diagnosed. Walkathon attendees had the opportunity to meet the dogs of BluePath and learn more about how the nonprofit is unlocking life’s potential for children and families touched by autism.
“Our Walkathon is more than just a path we tread—it’s a powerful symbol of unity and purpose,” said Tricia Zarro, BluePath’s Board Chair. “The event is our most important fundraiser of the year and its success is critical to advancing BluePath’s mission. The generosity and participation directly impact our ability to provide autism service dogs, free of charge, to the families who need them most.”
Jason Boss, whose son was the recipient of BluePath service dog Jasper in October 2024, added, “Jasper keeps Jeffrey safe, and knows when and how to help Jeffrey bring his energy down. Jasper has helped Jeffrey in such a way that no other therapy, class, or service has ever been able to.”
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.
“BluePath means the world to so many, and I’m continually humbled by the impact we’re able to make,” said BluePath Chief Executive Michelle Brier during the event’s opening remarks. “Our walk is not just about the steps; we walk for the transformative moments of safety and connection that reflect the heart of our mission. These stories are profoundly life-changing and remind us of the community we’re building and the shared path where everyone belongs.”
The nonprofit’s ninth annual walkathon has gained major support from the following sponsors:
Presenting: Neva and Howard Goldstein Family Charitable Fund, Suzanne Hatfield Fund, Team Michelangelo
Platinum: Boehringer Ingelheim, Lanza Family Foundation
Gold: Anthem BlueCross BlueShield, Burke Energy, Croton Lions Club, Donn Gerelli Associates Insurance Agency, Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno LLC, Rewired for Autism, Sergeants Benevolent Association, Team Ali Fairhurst
Silver: Amalgamated Transit Union Local 726, Animal Specialty Center, Bedford Hills Lions Club, Bedford PBA, Bugeya Family, Cruze and the Frango Family, GS Bounce, Kolmar Americas, Mesa’s Marrathoners, Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, Nassau County Sheriff’s Correction Officers Benevolent Association, NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health, Peekskill Rotary Club Foundation, Police Benevolent Association of the City of New York, Quinn Law Firm, Sanitation Officers Association, Shrub Oak International School, Uniformed Fire Officers Association, Volz Auto Group
Table: 3 Up 3 Down, Autism Society of the Greater Hudson Region, City of Rye Police Association, The Corcoran Group, Correction Captains’ Association, Flex CFO, Good Reasons, Guardian Veterinary Specialists, Decker Tool Rental, Durant Party Rentals, Invisible Fence, Middletown Veterinary Hospital, Millwood Animal Hospital, NYS Court Officers Association, NYS Supreme Court Officers Association, RBT CPAs, LLP, Sleepy Coffee Too, South Putnam Animal Hospital, Suffolk County Detective Investigators PBA, Suffolk County PBA, Taconic Veterinary Center, THINKdifferently, Upper Cervical Chiropractic, VCA Veterinary Referral and Emergency Center – Norwalk, Williams Lumber & Home Centers, Wipe Your Paws, Yorktown Lions Club
