A local charity dedicated to domestic violence awareness and victims hosted its annual 5K run and walk on April 25 at Chestnut Branch Park.
Turnout was high for the event, hosted by the Casey Power Foundation. Many guests wore purple – the organization’s color – to support domestic violence victims and assure them they are not alone. It was founded by Maryanne Power in memory of her daughter Casey, who was killed by her then-fiancé during a domestic dispute in 2021.
“Casey was so kind and sweet,” the foundation’s website says. “She was deeply loved by many. Casey loved her iced caramel lattes. Her greatest joy was raising her son Bentley. She always called him ‘Mommy’s little monster.’ In the four short years she spent with him, she taught him to be caring, kind and compassionate – just like her.
“Casey’s favorite quote was, ‘Never look back,’ words she had tattooed on her shoulder.”
That motto became the foundation’s, too. A former Mantua resident, Casey graduated from Clearview Regional High School in 2014.
Proceeds from the walk benefit not only the foundation, but also Igniting Help, a domestic violence group that aids survivors, and a domestic violence state police unit. The foundation also funds teaching scholarships at Clearview and Washington Township high schools.
“We are honored to help Maryanne and to stand by her side each year,” noted Mayor Robert Zimmerman. “She has turned tragedy into a motivating factor to help others. To date, the Casey Power Foundation has raised close to $30,000 and has awarded 15 grants to fund domestic violence support.
“We are exceptionally proud of Maryanne and her team’s efforts, and thank them for their overwhelming passion for this cause.”
Also in attendance at the run and walk was Miss Stars and Stripes, Emily Cooney, Casey’s cousin, and Miss New Jersey, Belle Nicholas of Wenonah.
Maryanne Power (left), who started the Casey Power Foundation, with her grandson Bentley, whose mother was Maryanne’s daughter Casey. She died at the hands of her then-fiance in 2001. Mayor Robert Zimmerman addressed the crowd at the domestic violence organization’s 5K run and walk on April 25.
