Retired Fairview Police Chief and Ridgewood Resident Frank Del Vecchio will lace up his running shoes for his 15th annual 26-mile 9/11 Remembrance Run

photo courtesy of Frank Del Vecchio

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

On September 11, 2025, retired Fairview Police Chief Frank Del Vecchio will lace up his running shoes for his 15th annual 26-mile 9/11 Remembrance Run, this time joined by his three children in a powerful tribute to honor the fallen and support the homeless. Starting at Ridgewood’s Duck Pond and ending at the World Trade Center, the run benefits the Run For Hope Foundation, which has raised $300,000 for first responders, veterans, and hunger relief. Here’s why this Bergen County hero’s mission is a must-know story for 2025!

A Father’s Mission: Frank Del Vecchio’s 15th 9/11 Run

At 56, Frank Del Vecchio, a former Fairview police chief who worked at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks, is running his 15th marathon-length 9/11 Remembrance Run on September 11, 2025. This year, he’s joined by his children—Christopher (30), Aaron (29), and Kaylee (25)—for the first time, making it a family mission to keep the memory of 9/11 alive. “I’ve never had anyone run the entire length with me before,” Del Vecchio said. “They’ve stepped up. Maybe they’ll become my successors.”

Starting at 7:30 a.m. at Ridgewood Duck Pond, the 26-mile route down Broadway to the World Trade Center will take about 4.5 hours. After, Del Vecchio will serve as a lector at a 7 p.m. Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Ridgewood, proving his tireless dedication.

A New Focus: Tackling Homelessness and Hunger

This year’s run shifts its spotlight to homelessness, a growing crisis in 2025. Del Vecchio’s team will distribute care bags filled with essentials to those in need along the new Broadway route, chosen to maximize outreach. “Hunger is a huge problem,” he said. “Pantries are running low due to funding cuts.” The Run For Hope Foundation, which has raised $300,000 since its inception, supports first responders, military veterans, food pantries, and shelters battling hunger and homelessness.

Del Vecchio’s commitment stems from his Ground Zero experience: “I will never forget that day or working down there for as long as I live.” His run ensures 9/11’s lessons endure while addressing today’s urgent needs.

Why It Matters: Keeping 9/11’s Legacy Alive

As memories of September 11, 2001, fade for some, Del Vecchio’s run is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders. “Many people seem to have forgotten about 9/11,” he said. His annual trek, now a family effort, honors the fallen while tackling modern challenges like homelessness. The Run For Hope Foundation’s $300,000 in contributions has made a tangible impact, supporting veterans, first responders, and food-insecure communities across Bergen County and beyond.

With 2025 marking 24 years since the attacks, Del Vecchio’s run is a call to action for unity and compassion in a divided world. His children’s involvement signals a new generation carrying the torch.

How to Support the 2025 Remembrance Run

You can join Del Vecchio’s mission:

• Donate: Contribute to the Run For Hope Foundation at runforhopefoundation.org/donate to support homelessness and hunger relief.

• Spread the Word: Share the event on social media with hashtags like #911RemembranceRun and #RunForHope.

• Attend Local Events: Visit Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church or check northjersey.com for 9/11 memorial updates in Ridgewood.

• Volunteer: Contact the foundation to assist with care bag distribution or future runs.

The run starts at 7:30 a.m. on September 11, 2025, at Ridgewood Duck Pond (1133 E Ridgewood Ave). Can’t make it? Your donation can still make a difference!

A Hero’s Legacy in Bergen County

Frank Del Vecchio’s 15th 9/11 Remembrance Run is more than a marathon—it’s a testament to resilience, family, and community. Joined by his children and fueled by a mission to fight homelessness, he’s ensuring 9/11’s legacy lives on while addressing 2025’s pressing needs. Bergen County residents and beyond can rally behind this inspiring cause to honor the past and build a better future.

Source: Adapted from NorthJersey.com and Run For Hope Foundation reports.

Tags: #NJ911Tribute #DelVecchioRun #BergenCountyCharity #HungerRelief #FirstResponderSupport

Del Vecchio said in a Facebook post, “Thanks to those who have always supported the run, especially the DeVita Family (Maggie and Tom) who have been sponsoring the run for years, their generosity is simply unbelievable. If you would like to donate please go to www.runforhopefoundation.org.May God bless all of you and your families, as well as all those who serve in the Armed Forces, Police, Fire, and EMS and those who are still dealing with 9/11 related illnesses. Thanks again.”

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