CANFIELD, Ohio — Boardman resident Judy DeJoseph is well aware she’ll need to be a Warrior to triumph at this year’s Mahoning Valley Warrior pentathlon event.
As the pandemic winds down, DeJoseph says she’s excited to start back up with the competition, especially knowing this event will benefit area autism families.
“I think it’s a great way to get the community involved to raise money for a really good cause. The pandemic has obviously put everybody in a position where they probably haven’t done much of anything, and now they have the opportunity to get out and move,” said DeJoseph about the June 5 event.
The Mahoning Valley Warrior fundraiser has expanded to include five different events this year: A 5K, ninja warrior obstacle course, tractor pull, and two Strongman events.
It’s the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley’s biggest fundraiser each year.
And after canceling the 2020 event due to the pandemic, they hope to raise $25,000 for local families and programs.
“We provide programs and services for local families here in Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana Counties. Informational referrals, social programs, support programs for our parents. I’ve really tried the past few years to give more support for parents, because it’s a long journey for autism parents, and it’s a hard journey,” says director of the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley Robin Suzelis.
Matt Tobin of Niles is a first-time participant and has spent many hours working on the log clean and press as well as the stone load.
“I think it’s just a great cause to help out and I always like to be active and doing things so. I just wanted to give myself the challenge to see if I can do all of the events,” says Tobin.
DeJoseph says focusing on her mind body and spirit during the pandemic has given her all the confidence she needs to succeed on June 5.
“I’ve met people that are like my family, so I mean that to me is the most important thing, people that are encouraging you and helping you get stronger and healthier every day,” says DeJoseph.
The 2021 Warrior event benefiting the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley takes place Saturday, June 5 at the Canfield Fairgrounds.
For more information on registration or to donate, click here.
