Hi, my name is Alex Benvenuto, devoted husband to his beloved wife Cassandra, and the loving father of two beautiful daughters, Lulu and Winnie. I am a proud blue-collar union worker with bad knees and very little running experience. So naturally, I signed up to run my first marathon!

In 2025, I’ll be running the TCS New York City Marathon to raise money for United Way of Long Island, an organization doing incredible work to support veterans in our community. This mission is close to my heart as my grandfather Phil Caruso served in the Army, and I’m honored to run in his memory while giving back to those who’ve served.

I only started running about a year ago to get healthier, and what began as a personal challenge has grown into something much bigger. When the opportunity came to join Team Mission United, I couldn’t say no. This is about more than finishing 26.2 miles — it’s about standing up for the heroes in our own backyard.

And yes… my sister Sam is also running the marathon this year. So let’s just say, the sibling rivalry is alive and well. Help me raise more than she does!

Our fundraising goal is $3,500 — and I’d love your help smashing it.

Every dollar brings us closer to making a real difference for Long Island veterans. Thanks for being part of my journey — and for supporting those who’ve given so much for us.

Let’s do this!


– Alex

The TCS New York City Marathon represents the best of New York—when all New Yorkers come together to support each other and cheer on their neighbors.

For the ninth year, United Way of Long Island was selected as a charity partner for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon.

Every runner has their own unique story for why they run.