The Gino LaRusso Foundation presented Mid Valley Elementary School with a donation raised from a fundraiser held recently at VFW Post 25. Proceeds from the fundraiser went toward calming corners in each classroom at Mid Valley School District in kindergarten through third grades. First row, left to right: Blake Christiano, Travis Nguyen, Kaleena Nguyen, Maria Teixeira, Kylie Christiano, Chase Kurilla and Katrina LaRusso. Second row: Principal Brian Kelly, Christen Mishura, Ryan Kropa, Kathy Wallace, Janice Mecadon and Heidi Ballard.
CLARKS SUMMIT — After Gino LaRusso died by suicide in 2018, his sister knew he would want his death to be an opportunity to help young people who were depressed or bullied.
So, Katrina LaRusso sprang into action and organized a nonprofit geared at raising money for efforts that would truly make a difference in the lives of youngsters.
With a motto of “smile, wave, don’t give up,” Katrina formed a nonprofit entitled Gino LaRusso Foundation for Suicide Awareness.
The organization, like many other nonprofits, faced some challenges during the pandemic. This year, they again saw the opportunity for an in-person event that would get their message out.
In September, LaRusso held a community event at the Scranton VFW, bringing area residents together for food, fellowship and music for a good cause.
The event was overwhelmingly successful and raised $3,500, which LaRusso immediately donated to Mid Valley School District for a “calming corner” in classrooms from kindergarten through third grade.
The “calming corner” concept includes not only provides a quiet area in each classroom, filled with supportive resources and an area where children can re-group, but also trainings for teachers in making the area work.
LaRusso emphasizes that nearly everyone has been affected by suicide in some way.
Because September was national suicide awareness month, LaRusso took to the group’s Facebook page to provide information and information to those struggling with mental health issues, as well as speaking to various community groups and participating in supportive activities and events.
Those wanting to know more about the Gino LaRusso Foundation can access the group’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/smilewavedontgiveup/
