Detachment of New York raises $66,481.37 for
NY VA centers and Hope For Warriors
Every spring, the Detachment of New York, along
with the Department of New York American Legion
Auxiliary, runs a state-wide Walk A Thon Campaign.
This year all of the proceeds benefitted the 13 VA
Medical Centers, five New York state veterans
homes, and Hope For Warriors. Each year since its
inception, the program has grown and set a new
fundraising record. This year’s total donations hit a
record-high at $66,481.37, surpassing last year’s
total by over $9,450.
Led by SAL Chairman PNC Christopher Cerullo and ALA Chairperson Marie Santacroce, the
program asks squadrons, units and posts to either hold a traditional Walk A Thon in their
community or raise funds by selling “Walk A Thon Boots” cut-outs in their communities and
to their families, friends, and Legion families. The “Boots” are something similar to the shamrocks or hearts that are often seen near the checkout lines in stores. A person makes a donation in any amount (the suggested donation is $5), writes their name on the Boots flyer, and
the flyer is then displayed. Many New York Legion posts are now wallpapered each spring
with the Boots cut-outs for the duration of the fundraiser. When the fundraising period is
over, squadrons and units send in a check to their department office, where the funds are
totaled and then the individual checks are distributed to members in the fall to present at
facilities in their local areas. This year, the VA Medical Centers and veterans homes in New
York state are each being presented with a check for $1,850 from the Detachment of New
York, plus the Hope For Warriors Foundation will be receiving $33,000 from the Department
of New York Auxiliary. The VA centers are able to use the money for anything that directly
benefits the veterans in the facilities.
