BluePath Service Dogs hosts 9th annual walkathon at Yorktown's FDR Park May 10

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. —BluePath Service Dogs will host its ninth annual walkathon on Saturday, May 10, at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. The family-friendly fundraiser, held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., supports BluePath's mission of providing autism service dogs that offer safety, companionship, and opportunities for independence.

The walkathon, which begins in Lot 4, is open to participants of all ages, featuring 1.7-mile or 3-mile loops. Activities include bounce houses, a bubble bus, esports gaming, a photo booth, lawn games, food trucks, and sponsor exhibits. The inclusive event will also feature a quiet tent equipped with comfortable seating, books, and fidget toys. Attendees may bring friendly dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Visitors can meet BluePath dogs and learn about the organization's impact on children with autism.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in 31 children born today will develop an autism spectrum disorder, making it the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States.

For the Freeman family in Somers, their BluePath service dog, Knight, has significantly improved life for their son, Jacob.

"When Jacob was younger, he loved toy cars and trucks, but rather than play with them, he would turn them upside down and spin the wheels," Kyle Freeman said. "His fascination with vehicles has grown and often overtakes his awareness and safety. Jacob can take off in an instant toward shiny rims or flashing lights. Holding his hand is always necessary because we never know when he might run off."

Each BluePath dog undergoes thousands of hours of training by volunteers and professional staff. Although training costs exceed $40,000 per dog, BluePath provides these dogs and ongoing support to families free of charge.

"That first walk with Knight was special," Freeman added. "Jacob held onto her harness and wouldn't let go. Knight has become our light at the end of the tunnel, ensuring Jacob's safety and providing our family renewed hope."

Major sponsors of this year's walkathon include:

* 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, 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

"We are delighted to welcome the community to our ninth annual walkathon—a day celebrating joy, connection, and collective impact," said Michelle Brier, co-founder and CEO of BluePath. "This event unites those committed to our mission, taking meaningful steps toward a safer, brighter world for children with autism."

Registration includes a BluePath event T-shirt and costs $30 for adults and $20 for children under 13. Participants can register online at bluepathservicedogs.org. Those unable to attend can donate online or become virtual walkers by creating personalized fundraising pages. For sponsorship information, contact Erica Stanzione at 845-377-0477 or [email protected].

BluePath Service Dogs, Inc. is based in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. For more information, call 845-377-0477 or visit www.bluepathservicedogs.org. Follow @BluePathServiceDogs on Facebook and @BluePathDogs on Instagram.

About BluePath Service Dogs, Inc. BluePath Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2016, dedicated to providing autism service dogs that enhance safety, companionship, and independence. BluePath operates solely through the generosity of donors and volunteers. Learn more at www.bluepathservicedogs.org or follow BluePath on Facebook at www.facebook.org/bluepathservicedogs.