3 Sisters Who Helped Host Virtual 5K Run: Smithtown Local Heroes

SMITHTOWN, NY — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. Together with Ring, we're working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Christine Fitzgerald, of the Smithtown Children's Foundation, who nominated Jillian, Caitlin, and Christina Unkenholz, of Smithtown.

Name:
Jillian, Caitlin & Christina Unkenholz

State:
NY

Hometown:
Smithtown

Hero's job:
Other

If other, job:
High school & college students volunteering for the Smithtown Chlidren's Foundation

Relationship to nominee:
Volunteer for Smithtown Children's Foundation

Reason for recognition:
As COVID hit, we learned of a 4-year-old about to begin treatment for brain cancer but couldn't, as he & his parents tested COVID positive. The sisters reached out to ask if we could help them host a virtual 5K run. When people ask to volunteer, they expect us to tell them what to do, so to have high school & college students come to us with a well thought-out plan of exactly HOW to assist was so refreshing!

One thing to know:
The girls' energy, enthusiasm & empathy towards a family they didn’t even know is truly inspiring!

Thank you for all you do, Jillian, Caitlin & Christina!

>> Do you have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here. Read about other heroes from across New York here.