Cathy Varunok (left) takes instruction from Felicia Hodges in the art of board-breaking; Ms. Hodges presents a check to Ms. Varunok
Cathy Varunok, Co-Founder of the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, and Pari Forood, Executive Director accept a donation from Felicia Hodges, Editor of the Tri-County Woman On-Line magazine.
The Break-a-thon was open to all ages and participants ranged from expert to novice.
“When we came over to thank Felicia and pick up the check, she gave us the opportunity to break a board,” explained Ms. Varunok. “Naturally we had to give it a try and now Pari and I can’t wait to do it again.”
“People from throughout the 8 counties of the Hudson Valley approach us and ask what kind of fundraiser they can do for us and I always say ‘use your imagination!’” explained Ms. Forood.
“In 2009, we received donations from: a Spin-a-thon at Spinning Classes at a northern Westchester fitness club, Manicures and Pedicures for Hope in Millbrook, and the sale of a calendar by the group Bosom Buddies, survivors who posed topless for the calendar to show that women, post surgery can still be proud of their bodies. Aside from our annual events, we received donations from salons, high school honor societies, girl scout troops, Dragon Boat races in Peekskill, Dance/Exercise programs in Poughkeepsie, and a Fashion Show with survivors as models at the Galleria.”
“People play soccer, basketball, softball, run, sing and dance to raise money for us and we are thrilled and very very grateful,” Ms. Varunok said.
Tags: martial arts