Ben's Lighthouse is connecting all children. The organization establishes programs that empower young people to develop the self-awareness, empathy and social connections they need to find and share their own light.https://bootcampforben.eventbrite.com or contact Ms Paredes at kparedes@benslighthouse.org or 203-426-9070 extension 15.

In 2015 alone, Ben's Lighthouse positively impacted the lives of over 200 children in the Newtown area through its programs, mentoring activities, and volunteer experiences.

On Saturday, March 26, from 11 am until 1 pm, a bootcamp style fitness event will be held at NYA Sports & Fitness Center to raise funds for Ben's Lighthouse. Teams and individuals are invited to participate in a 90-minute extreme workout that will include circuit training on various equipment, bodyweights, lifting, sleds, sprints, barbells and more.

The indoor workout will be followed by a two-mile run around the Fairfield Hills campus.

Participants will be working out alongside members of four teams training to compete in the 2016 Ragnar Relay, an overnight running team relay race that covers 200 miles along Cape Cod, from Hull to Provincetown. Team members each run three times, with each leg ranging between 3-8 miles and varying in difficulty.

Ben's Lighthouse will benefit from the efforts of the four teams at Ragnar later this year.

"These runners are helping us to shine light on our organization, while raising funds to support our programming - ensuring that we are always able to provide opportunities and events free of charge to anyone who wants to participate," said Kelly Paredes, program manager for Ben's Lighthouse.

Those participating in the March 26 event at NYA "will always be challenged and never bored," promises Ms Paredes.

Cost is $15 for ages 14 and up, and $10 for children ages 5-13. While the adults will be invited to participate in the full bootcamp, the younger athletes will enjoy age-appropriate activities including sports, games, and arts and crafts.

To register visit

Ben's Lighthouse was created in honor of six-year old lighthouse-enthusiast Ben Wheeler, who lost his life at Sandy Hook Elementary School on 12/14. Ben's Lighthouse is named as a way to remember Ben, but also to honor the "light" of all innocents lost on that day.