First Annual Great Constantine Walk and 5K Run Celebrates Monumental Success in Honor of LtCol Justin Constantine
GI Go Fund successfully held the first annual Great Constantine Walk and 5K Run at Liberty State Park honoring the memory of LtCol Justin Constantine and continuing Justin's enduring legacy.
Jersey City, NJ -- GI Go Fund successfully held the first annual Great Constantine Walk and 5K Run at Liberty State Park. This event, dedicated to the memory of LtCol Justin Constantine, drew countless participants in person and virtually, coming together to celebrate and perpetuate Justin's enduring legacy.
LtCol Constantine, a revered veteran leader and advocate for the veteran community, was commemorated through this event, which not only celebrated his life but also supported the ongoing needs of veterans through the programs he championed. The event raised significant funds and awareness for GI Go's programs that Justin helped advance, including our Small Business Incubator and mental health support.
Great Constantine Legacy Board
The event was notably enhanced by the support of several members of the Great Constantine Legacy Board. The mission of the Great Constantine Legacy Board is to preserve Justin Constantine's memory and the passions he fought so hard for while he was alive, including veteran employment, mental health awareness, and supporting all members of the DE&I community to achieve greatness.
Among this support was the generous contribution of $5,000 from the Bob Woodruff Foundation, presented by BWF COO and Legacy Board Member Todd Duso. In addition, board member John Escalante and the members of his Team RWB joined the event and spread the word to others to join. Lastly, Betty Diaz and Paramount Veterans Network also participated and spread awareness of the event to their members and viewers. Their commitment exemplifies the community spirit that the Great Constantine Legacy Board aims to foster through such events.
Honoring a Legacy of Resilience and Advocacy
LtCol Justin Constantine survived a severe sniper headshot in Iraq in 2006, a life-changing event that he transformed into a platform for advocacy and inspiration. After his injury, Justin dedicated his life to supporting fellow veterans and the disabled, speaking internationally about resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity. His work included serving as a board member at the Wounded Warrior Project, delivering a TEDx talk on his experiences, authoring books on veteran employment, and acting as SHRM’s Leading Voice on Veteran Hiring.
The Great Constantine Walk and 5K Run not only celebrated his life but also supported the ongoing needs of veterans through the programs he passionately championed. The event successfully raised significant funds and awareness, with participants drawn from both the local community and global supporters who participated virtually.
Looking Forward
The success of this year’s event sets a promising precedent for future initiatives. Plans are already underway for next year’s event and ongoing programs that will continue to support and honor our veterans.