On Saturday, Sept. 22, Operation First Response marks an important milestone: the 10th Annual Walk for the Wounded on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Since Ocean City’s first Walk for the Wounded in 2009, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised to help Operation First Response offer financial and emotional support to injured soldiers and their families.
“We’ve raised funds and awareness for the plight of injured soldiers, but there is still plenty of work to be done,” said Tricia Ciliberto of the 2018 Walk for the Wounded Committee. “We hope to make this year’s event the milestone our heroes deserve.”
There are a number of ways to contribute to the success of the 10th Annual Walk, according to Ciliberto. “Businesses can invest in a sponsorship or an ad in the dedication booklet, and individuals can organize a team of walkers or register individually for the Walk,” she explained.
Former Army Sgt. Jesse Wallace, who lost his right leg in combat in Afghanistan, rode a recumbent cycle to lead the Walk for the Wounded.
One truly enjoyable way to contribute to the Walk is to attend Family Day at Playland’s Castaway Cove on Friday, Aug. 10, from 1 to 5 pm. The amusement pier, located at 1020 Boardwalk, will sell unlimited ride wristbands for $15 each. All rides except the Gale Force roller coaster are included, and one hundred percent of the proceeds benefit Walk for the Wounded.
The funds raised at Walk for the Wounded will help Operation First Response, rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, support wounded soldiers in times of crisis. More than 97 cents of every dollar raised will be donated directly to injured soldiers who are facing financial, physical, and emotional struggles.
To learn more about Walk for the Wounded sponsorships, advertising opportunities, or registration, please contact Tricia Ciliberto at (609) 402-5190, or visit www.OperationFirstResponse.com.
