“Shark Shuffle” Virtual Walk/Run To Support College Scholarships

A Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) graduate is giving back to his alma mater by leading a “Shark Shuffle” Virtual Walk/Run fundraising effort. Proceeds from the first-ever virtual Suffolk Shark Shuffle 5K will support scholarships at SCCC.

After receiving an email from Suffolk’s Alumni relations office about the digital 5K, Alex Helisek, of Huntington Station, sprinted into action. The 32-year-old graduated from Suffolk County Community College in January 2011 and went on to earn a degree from SUNY Potsdam. He launched a successful production company in Los Angeles, Breezeway Productions, which has transitioned online due to the pandemic, so Helisek decided to relocate back to New York to be closer to loved ones, as well as explore new business opportunities in New York City.

“Reading through the email,” Helisek said, “it struck me that raising money for students in need would be the perfect way to honor my aunt who was a retired professor and author.”

So, Helisek bought a treadmill and joined Suffolk’s Shark Shuffle Virtual 5K fundraiser. He is running to raise funds for Suffolk students and pay tribute to his late aunt, Paula Greene who succumbed to breast cancer.

He has raised $300 for the cause so far. “Community colleges,” Helisek continued, “are affordable, but even so there are students in need.”

The Suffolk County Community College “Shark Shuffle” Virtual Walk/Run will be held Monday, October 12 through Monday, October 26. There is a $25 registration fee and those that fundraise at least $500 will receive Suffolk branded apparel. SCCC hopes to raise $50,000 through the 5K. As of now, $3,896 has been raised.

For more information, visit www.justgiving.com.