Meet Our Team!

CASA-NYC is an official charity partner for the 2025 United Airlines Half Marathon on March 16, 2025. Learn more about CASA-NYC's official runners, and show your support by visiting their pages!

Caroline Richardson

Caroline Richardson is excited to be running and fundraising for CASA-NYC leading up to this year’s NYC United Half Marathon. Since joining the CASA-NYC team as an Advocate Supervisor in the Bronx in April 2023, she has witnessed firsthand the policies and practices within the New York City child welfare system and their profound impact on the children and families served. Caroline believes that CASA-NYC is an organization with a mission and model that works, with every dollar raised going directly back to those in need. Working for an organization she deeply believes in and is impressed by every day is an honor, and she is thrilled to have the opportunity to fundraise this winter. Support Caroline here!

Crystal Tandon

Crystal Tandon is thrilled to be part of the CASA-NYC team by running the NYC Half Marathon this year, supporting an organization that tirelessly advocates for New York City’s children and youth. For the past two years, she has served as a volunteer advocate, working closely with families navigating the complex foster care system and providing essential support to those in need. Impressed by the dedication of the entire CASA-NYC team, Crystal encourages everyone to donate and help make a positive impact on the lives of NYC’s children. Support Crystal here!

Selma Zweifel

Selma Zweifel is excited to share that she and her adopted sister will be running in the NYC Half Marathon this year in support of CASA. Their connection to CASA’s mission is deeply personal—both spent time in foster care before being adopted together as siblings, with their CASA playing a pivotal role in keeping them united. As an avid runner, Selma is thrilled to combine her passion for running with her dedication to CASA’s work, honoring her shared journey with her sister while giving back to an organization that provides essential support and stability to children in foster care. She appreciates every donation, big or small, that helps make a difference in the lives of these children. Support Selma here!

Ellie Zweifel

Ellie Zweifel is running the New York City Half Marathon to support CASA, whose advocacy profoundly shaped her life. Growing up in the foster care system with her sister, she experienced firsthand the stability, support, and guidance that CASA provided during times of uncertainty. A former swimmer at the University of Florida, Ellie now embraces running as a way to connect her past with her present and give back to the organization that helped shape her future. Working in finance and enjoying yoga, baking, and movies, Ellie—originally from Missouri and now based in Gainesville—is proud to represent CASA and its ongoing impact on children and families. Support Ellie here!

Raul Medina

Raul Medina is a seasoned runner with over 50 years of experience, having enjoyed the benefits of running around the world. After retiring in 2016 following 30 years of service to the City of Milwaukee, he took on the challenge of entering the New York Marathon in 2017. Although he initially missed the lottery list, he earned his spot by committing to raise funds for a charity, an opportunity that opened his eyes to the many causes in need. Recognizing that the challenges of balancing daily life pale in comparison to the hardships faced by others, Raul is dedicated to supporting CASA-NYC’s mission by working hard to meet his fundraising goal. Support Raul here!