More than 60 participants helped the  Sterbenz “Miles of Smiles,” a 5K run and 1K walk/roll/stroll, raise $14,500 to benefit Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc. The event took place on October 5 at Warren Community College (WCC) in Washington, NJ.

“We’re grateful for the continued support of Paul Sterbenz and his family, along with our partnership with WCC, leading to much needed support of our programs serving people with disabilities,” said Abilities CEO Cynthia B. Wildermuth.

Following the event, awards were presented to:

• Men’s 5k run first place winner – Thomas Kline III
• Women’s 5k run first place winner – Tara Rodriguez
• Largest team – Team Warren
• Best fundraiser – Team Zukoski
• Best dressed – Miriam Taunean
• Best effort – Evan Donahue
• Best costume – Marcia Melancon
• Best smile – Carolyn DeSonne

Friend of Abilities sponsored the event. Other sponsors included:

• Smile sponsors – CWP Central Wire Products and Allies Inc.
• Stroll sponsors – Naturally Beautiful Plant Products, Rotary Club of Washington, Fulton Bank, Columbia Bank, and Warren Community College
• Path sponsors – Visions Federal Credit Union, PNC Bank, and the Arc of Warren County

Refreshments provided by ShopRite of Hunterdon County, owned by the Colalillo family.

The Sterbenz Run for Abilities was created by Paul and James Sterbenz in 2020 to replace running events that were canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to raise needed funds for Abilities. Individuals of all abilities are able to participate, whether they run, walk, roll, or stroll.

About Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc.

Abilities of Northwest Jersey Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring people with disabilities to achieve their life goals by providing individualized supports. Incorporated in 1974, Abilities works diligently to create an inclusive community where individuals with disabilities are given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential in life. Visit our website at https://www.abilitiesnw.org/, or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/abilitiesnw/.