Boy hits dunk tank to benefit first responders

WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - A Winter Springs boy has raised thousands of dollars for injured firefighters and police officers.

This weekend, the 9-year old hoped to raise even more money for them, takings one for the team in a dunk tank.  It's part of a fundraiser for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

"I've gotten dunked a lot so it's been a fun day," says Zechariah Cartledge."Helps police officers and firefighters who have been severely injured and they try to build smart homes for them so they can move around better."

They're building homes all over Florida for wounded first responders.

"The money goes to many of our programs some of which we paid off mortgages, for those killed in the line of duty," said event coordinator Vicki Casas.  "We've also built smart homes for wounded veterans."

Cartledge has already raised $10,000 for the foundation. On September 8, he plans to raise more step by step at this 5k run.

"Police officers and firefighters run in full gear," he explains, adding that running is his favorite pastime. "I've ran 35 5ks, a half-marathon."

He thanks first responders for all they do and hope they realize how much they mean to him.

"I just love what police officers and firefighters do everyday to keep our lives safe, and I just love them. They sacrifice their lives everyday so we can all stay safe and live a happy life."

The Tunnel to Towers 5k event takes place this Saturday at 7:30 a.m. at Cranes Roost Park. Click here for more information.