Veterans Count fundraiser supports service members, veterans and their families
Laconia, NH –The 16th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride at The NASWA Resort in Laconia brings bikers together for a ride around Lake Winnipesaukee to raise funds for Veterans Count, the philanthropic arm of Easterseals New Hampshire’s Military & Veterans Services, among other local charities. Peter Makris, who passed away in 2007, was the owner of The NASWA, a U.S. Marine Corps member, and an avid motorcycle rider.
Since its inception, the annual kick-off ride to Laconia Motorcycle Week has raised over $525,000 to support service members, veterans and their families through Veterans Count.
“Veterans Count is honored to be among the charities supported by this event,” said Joseph Emmons, Easterseals New Hampshire Chief Development Officer. “Every year, we are humbled by the generosity of the Makris family and all the riders who participate to honor Peter Makris and the causes he was passionate about.”
“Our family strives to keep his [Peter’s] memory alive by giving to those my father supported—our town, our veterans, and those who protect us,” said Cynthia Makris, Peter’s daughter and the vice chair of the Veterans Count Lakes Region chapter.
The ride also supports the Laconia Fire Department Life Saving Fund, over $200,000 to Veterans Count, Lakes Region CERT Team, Belknap House Homeless Shelter for Families, Building Dreams for Marines and the NH Veterans Home.
The 16th Annual Peter Makris Memorial Ride begins and ends at The NASWA Resort. Riders will be escorted by NH State Police. For more information and to register, visit https://www.NASWA.com/peter-makris-memorial-run/.
About Easterseals New Hampshire Military & Veterans Services
Easterseals New Hampshire Military & Veterans Services was founded in 2007 to provide case management and emergency financial assistance to meet the unexpected needs of service members, veterans and their families. Veterans Count, the philanthropic arm of Military & Veterans Services, provides critical and timely financial assistance and services when no other resource is available. Emergency financial assistance may consist of things such as rental assistance, gas, food or utility payments. Last year alone, the program served more than 1,660 veterans, assisting them in accessing eligible benefits and services, housing, counseling services and other needs including emergency financial assistance to build a sustainable, secure and viable future. Our commitment is to ensure the dignity, health and overall well-being of each service member, veteran and their families.