CityView Magazine

CityViewNC.com | 47 have served and the undeniable spirit of America. "On September 11, 2001," the website says, "our nation was forever changed. In response, we came together as a na- tion, united and stronger than before— knocked down but not defeated. at spirit of working together is the back- bone of the Esprit de Corps Challenge and as we work together, we remember those who have fought for our freedom. We do not mourn the loss of our broth- ers and sisters. We carry them with us, remember their sacrifice, live in their honor and pray for their families. As such, each Challenge team is placed in troops to recognize groups of the fallen and carry the names and biographies with them through the race." Since its creation, the events have gar- nered countless participants, growing larger with each run, however, as Cas- tro has been recovering from a recent hip surgery, there aren't currently any public events planned. is year Castro and his business partner and longtime friend, Darlene Matos launched the Special Operators Foundation, a chari- table organization, designed to parse out donations to several other causes close to Castro's heart. "Our mission is focused on educa- tion, community and employment for men and women within Special Opera- tions and their families," Castro said. "I am a believer that education plays a vital role in gaining employment and sustaining a home. As service members we are still a part of the community where we work, and it is important to give back to that community." At every race for the Special Opera- tor's Challenge there is a food, diaper and clothing collection. e diapers are donated to families in need, and the food goes to Second Harvest, families in need and to churches where donations are open to everyone. For the Special Operator's Founda- tion, Castro and Matos have donated funds to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation; the National Law Enforce- ment Office Memorial Fund based in D.C.; Special Forces Association; Spe- cial Forces Charitable Trust; Team Red, White & Blue; Operation Enduring War- vibradrda@aol.com ~ www.vibrasgifts.com 2nd location at 7390 Plain View Hwy. in Dunn 910.897.4004 1110 Hay Street in Historic Haymount 910.920.1590 ViBRa's OF FAYETTEVILLE Clothing and Jewelry Boutique ~ Home Goods and Accessories Antique Furniture with Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan! AT THE FORMER BETTY KELLY'S GIFT SHOP! NEW LOCATION! 910.261.1769 5474 Trade Street Hope Mills, NC 28348 www.elitecateringnc.com Providing You With An Elite Dining Experience

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