West Caldwell Vice Principal Runs Half Marathon for ASPCA

Vice principal John Bertollo just joined James Caldwell High School in September 2014, but he is already making his mark at the school, raising funds for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) by participating this week in the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge in Orlando, FL.; a 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon, totaling 48.6 miles.

Bertollo has been running for several years, competing in races throughout New Jersey, New York, Florida and California, including 5Ks, 10Ks, and four half marathons. This week, Bertollo is running to raise funds for the ASPCA.

“I enjoy running, but I like running for a cause and bringing awareness to those in need,” Bertollo said. “In August, 2013, I competed in my first half-marathon, raising more than $2,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.”

Bertollo had an initial goal of $1,200 for the ASPCA, and has currently raised $1,237.

“I have met my original goal, but would love to raise more for this worthwhile cause.”

Bertollo’s 5-year-old Shih Tzu Gia is his inspiration for his run. The ASPCA cares for pets and pet parents, by providing positive outcomes for at-risk animals, and serving victims of animal cruelty.

“As I thought about a cause to run for, I looked at my dog Gia and thought about those animals in need,” Bertollo explained. “I found that the ASPCA has a running team and wanted to help the ASPCA continue doing all of the great things that they do to fight animal cruelty.”

Click here to contribute to Vice Principal Bertollo’s team. For more information on James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell, click here.

Pictured: James Caldwell High School vice principal John Bertollo and his wife Chrissy (pictured) are running to raise funds for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) by participating this week in the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge in Orlando, FL.; a 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon, totaling 48.6 miles.

Photo courtesy of Christine Corliss

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