South Florida First Responders Foundation

To Those We’ve Lost, We Will Forever Honor…

The Heroes Run was born out of both personal loss and a collective desire to honor the lives of friends and colleagues who left us too soon. The vision first took root after the tragic passing of Lifeguard Lt. Piotr Zatorsky on November 30, 2014. Piotr, an avid runner who often trained along the sand from Pompano Pier to Commercial Pier and back, inspired the idea of a memorial run in his honor.

Though the plan was delayed, the urgency to act only grew stronger as more heartbreak struck our community. In 2019, Lifeguard Richard Loop died by suicide, and in 2021, Lifeguard Jose Antonio Landrua passed away following an incident after a workout.

When I returned full-time to Pompano Beach Ocean Rescue in mid-2021, I—together with a dedicated team including Stephan Gruetter, Justin Holloway, and Mareena Reedy—felt a renewed responsibility to create something meaningful to honor their legacies. Out of that effort, we formed The South Florida First Responders Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3), to produce The Heroes Run.

south florida first responders foundation

COUNTDOWN TO HEREOS RUN 2026

2026/11/28 07:30:00

GET TO KNOW OUR TEAM

Tom O'neill

President

Justin Holloway

Vice President

Stephan Gruetter

Treasurer & Co-Founder

Mareena Reedy

Secretary & Sponsorship Director

Jenny VanCampen

coming soon

Our Proud Sponsors

SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS

Every day, our first responders put their lives on the line to protect and serve our communities. Your support can make a real impact in the lives of these brave men and women and their families, especially in times of hardship.

South Florida First Responders Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to honor the lives, service, and sacrifices of our local first responders. Born from personal loss and inspired by the memory of Lifeguard Lt. Piotr Zatorsky, the foundation supports community events like the Heroes Run while helping raise awareness for first responder mental wellness. Our mission is simple — remember those we’ve lost, support those still serving, and bring the community together for a cause that matters.

Stomping Out The Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing free, confidential counseling to first responders facing mental health challenges like PTSD, anxiety, depression, burnout, and addiction. Our culturally competent therapists offer support without diagnoses, insurance involvement, or any reporting back to departments — your privacy is fully protected. Getting help will not impact your life insurance. If you’re struggling, reach out.

The First Responders Foundation is dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of South Florida’s firefighters, police officers, and paramedics. We rescue and train therapy dogs that visit local stations and departments, providing comfort and support to those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and the emotional toll of the job.

Founded in 1999, the Broward Sheriff’s Foundation is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the Broward Sheriff’s Office and its personnel. The foundation funds anti-terrorism initiatives, supports families of fallen heroes, provides training beyond the county budget, and backs crime prevention and civic education programs — all made possible through community donations.

The Pompano Beach Firefighters Benevolent supports past and present members of the Pompano Beach Fire Department as a local 501(c)(3) founded in 2018 through member contributions, sponsorships, and community donations. Stay connected by following along and reaching out for updates on upcoming events.

Pompano Beach Ocean Rescue is a specialized unit of Pompano Beach Fire Rescue, staffed by highly trained lifeguards who protect swimmers along 1,200 yards of beach. All are certified First Responders or EMTs, equipped with lifesaving gear, and trained through the United States Lifesaving Association, with additional training from the department — ensuring they’re prepared for any emergency while helping keep the public safe.