Posted by Spano Foundation
This past Sunday, the spirit of gratitude and giving was alive and well at Rulli Brothers in Boardman as the Boo Squad group and the Boo Squad Fund, marked a major milestone in its mission to help local families. Nearly 50 dedicated volunteers came together to distribute 500 Thanksgiving dinners to families in need across Mahoning, Trumbull, and Ashtabula counties, as well as school districts and organizations.
What began nine years ago with just 10 families has grown into one of the most impactful Thanksgiving outreach efforts in the area. Each year, the Boo Squad Fund, led by Heather Hrina-Medvec continues to expand its reach, thanks to generous donors, community partners, and a passionate team of volunteers committed to uplifting others during the holiday season.
Families received complete Thanksgiving meals to ensure they could enjoy a warm, hearty, and joyful holiday at home. The sight of volunteers, some returning for all nine years, others joining for the first time, working side-by-side reflected the heart of the Valley: neighbors helping neighbors.
“The growth we’ve seen is incredible,” said Chair of the Board, Anthony Spano. “Every year, the need increases, but so does the generosity of our community to Heathers group. What started as a small effort has now become a tradition that brings hope to hundreds of families. Heather has done a tremendous job building this program over the years.”
The Boo Squad is a volunteer group for kids aged 3 to teenagers now. The goal of the Boo Squad is to actively volunteer and educate kids about being compassionate and understanding of others with differences. With the support of Rulli Brothers and countless volunteers, this year’s event continued that legacy, reminding us of all what can be accomplished when we come together for a common purpose.
As the Boo Squad Fund looks forward to its 10th year, the Spano Foundation remains committed to assisting this Fund and group to ensure it keeps going and expanding its reach in the future.
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Thank you to every that volunteered, donated, and partnered who made this year’s Thanksgiving distribution possible. Together, we continue to honor the true meaning of the season, giving, gratitude, and community.
The Boo Squad Fund is a component fund of the Anthony Spano Foundation.