Former Rutgers Rowers Reunite to Help Families of Fallen First Responders
More than 40 years after rowing crew at Rutgers, an alumni trio has formed a foundation to help families of fallen first responders.
Mark O’Connor, Class of 1979, and 1982 graduates Bob White and Geof McKernan lead the non-profit Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation, serving South Jersey, Philadelphia, and surrounding regions.
Their annual 65-mile bicycle ride from Philadelphia to Atlantic City, dubbed “The Ben (Franklin Bridge) to the Shore Bike Tour,” raises most of the money for their foundation’s mission, which includes:
- Supporting families of fallen or critically injured first responders with immediate financial grants
- Sponsoring “Police Youth Alliance” events to build positive relationships between officers and underserved children
- Spotlighting mental health awareness and programs
Author's summary: Alumni help families of fallen first responders.