Half-marathon runners raise $12K for Special Olympics

MILFORD — More than 300 athletes from around the region will compete in track, swimming, and weight lifting at the 10th annual Special Olympics, to be held at Warrior Stadium on Wednesday, May 11.
Unlike many organizations, however, the Area P Special Olympics — consisting of Lackawanna, Susquehanna, Wayne, Pike, and Wyoming Counties — receives no funding from state and national affiliate programs. Because of this, John Staub of Dingman-Delaware Middle School rallied a team of 25 Delaware Valley staff members representing all seven schools to raise funds by running in the 13.1-mile Scranton Half Marathon.
"DV for Area P," as the group calls itself, raised both money and awareness for the Area P organization, which relies on donations from the local community. Pre-marathon fundraising efforts included personal and corporate sponsorships, T-shirt and food sales, student penny wars, and raffles, to name a few. The team was able to present a check for $8,781. Several donations came in from runners after the presentation check was made, and a donation that Kildare's made to team “DV for Area P.” That means the group raised more than $12,000 for its cause.
“When the amount we raised was announced — even though I was still in pain and could barely bend my legs — I was extremely proud, of not just myself for finishing the half marathon, but proud of my co-workers for doing such a wonderful thing for a local charity that benefits our students," Casey Donovan said.
Her sentiment shared by colleagues and teammate Anthony Comunale.
“It was very rewarding and more difficult than I thought it would be," said Comunale. "But it was nice to donate money to Special Olympics. Plus it was on my bucket list.”
If you would like to donate to the Special Olympics, ensure your contribution stays local by making checks payable to Area P Special Olympics. Donations can be made at or sent to any one of the Delaware Valley Schools (attention: Dr. Maria Farrell). But only those donations received prior to May 3 will be published in the event program to allow for printing.
Admission is free to the Special Olympic “Area P” Field Day Invitational. Opening ceremonies begin at 10:15 a.m. The rain date May 12.
Anyone interested in coaching, fundraising or volunteering should call Eric Kudrich at 570-296-1850 ext. 7137. Call Barb Wisniewski at 570-296-1810 with all other questions.