Thank you for visiting my fundraising page!

As  I participate in World Run Day, I'm running 10 miles on November 9th in honor of my groupwork professor Al Alissi.  He is very missed. World Run Day urges not only getting out there and running for the day but also to give to charity.  I will be donating $50 to one of Al's most beloved organizations: The Open Hearth

In my final semester at UConn SSW in August 2004, my groupwork professor seemed to talked self-care almost as much as the coursework. I wondered why he would come to class a bit sweaty. It was near the end of the summer block that he told us that he ran 2 miles every morning. I was very impressed, probably because I had always neglected my own fitness.  As you may know Al Alissi was killed when he was struck by a car during his morning run.  I took up running last fall. It was slow going at first but now I am enjoying the benefits immensely. When I read about world run day and the opportunity to dedicate my run to someone special I immediately thought of Al Alissi.  Then of course I knew the charity I should give to as well. I'm hoping you can take some time to reflect on this great man and give to one of his favorite causes.

Best regards and many thanks,

Michael Westfall, LCSW

UConn SSW Class of 2004

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!