The Walk’s Mission

Brave Hearts for Strong Minds (BHSM) (EIN 45-3973220) was started in 2012 after beloved community member Tom Reilly suddenly passed away, leaving behind his wife and four young children. For children who have lost a parent, there can be lasting emotional and social hurdles, along with struggles to pay for higher education. Reflecting on Tom’s compassion and friendship, each year, the Saturday before Father’s Day, BHSM holds a charity walk. While bringing together our community, the walk’s mission is to raise funds for the 529 Education Plans of children who have lost a parent.

Our 2024 Recipient Families

The Maria-Evans Family

Karter Maria-Evans (soon to be 2) is the daughter of Christopher Evans (27) and Stephanie Maria-Rios of Pottstown, PA. An energetic child, Karter takes after her mom and dad with their infectious smiles!

Throughout his life, Chris was always the person to make everyone smile. From Norristown, PA, Chris graduated from Chestnut Hill College (CHC) in 2018. He pursued his passion for Basketball throughout his life, having played from a young age. Chris was a key player for the CHC Men’s Basketball Team, later serving as an Assistant Coach from 2019 – 2023, and was moving into a new role at The Hill School as a Learning Support Coordinator and Boys Basketball Assistant Coach at the time of his passing in August 2023. A dynamic individual, Chris established himself as a professional in youth services. His unexpected death leaves behind a huge impact not only on his family but also on the larger Montgomery County, PA, community.

The Zappariello Family

Samantha Zappariello (10) unexpectedly lost her father, Damon (46), on August 9, 2021. Her mother, Merissa, describes Sam as a true horse girl who is especially in love with her horse, Dr. Finn, and a daddy’s girl.

Damon was originally from Vineland, NJ, where he graduated from Buena Regional High School. He was an avid golfer and PGA Assistant Pro for over 15 years. Damon was also a talented woodworker and artist. An ambitious, hard worker and in the restaurant industry for over 25 years, Damon started his landscaping company during the pandemic, doing whatever it took to take care of his girls. Merissa and Damon met through friends in Conshohocken, where Merissa and Sam still reside.