EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been modified to include corrected information on the Boo Squad's 2024 sponsors.

The Boo Squad, a volunteer organization that includes children ages 7 and up, aims to teach children about teamwork, volunteerism and compassion. 

This year, the Boo Squad made it their mission to provide families with Thanksgiving meals. On November 24, they distributed dinners to 410 families at a drive-through giveaway event at Rulli Brothers on South Avenue, Boardman. 

"I hope this mission encourages other members of the community to step forward and support the fund or contact us to help us turn their passions into an impactful mission like the Boo Squad Fund," said Heather Medvec, Chair of the Boo Squad. 

Families impacted came from the school districts of Poland, Struthers, South Range, Springfield, Campbell, Girard and Howland.

Additionally, the Boo Squad fed families of:

  • The Beatitude House
  • Making Kids Count
  • The Purple Cat
  • Down Syndrome Association of the Valley (DSAV)
  • The Veteran's Commission of Ashtabula County
  • Direction Homes
  • Several local churches and many more local families in need!

The Boo Squad Fund is a component fund of the Anthony V. Spano Foundation, which seeks to positively impact the lives of individuals and families in need. 

This is the eighth year in a row that the Boo Squad Fund has made this event a part of their mission.

The organizations that sponsored The Boo Squad Fund includes:

Platinum Sponsors ($2,500+)

  • NECA IBEW Electricians

Gold Sponsors ($1,000)

  • The Hazimihalis Family

Silver Sponsors ($500+)

  • Debbie Armbrecht 
  • Boak & Sons
  • Farmers National Bank
  • The Truitt Family
  • The Lyras Family
  • Structural Coatings Inc.
  • Coventry Lighting Inc.
  • Sam Pitzulo Homes & Remodeling LLC
  • IBEW Local #64
  • IBEW Local #563
  • Santon Electric
  • Struthers Rotary Club
  • The Xipolitas Family
  • Youngstown Professional Firefighters Local 312

Bronze Sponsors ($250+)

  • Antal Family
  • Bulick Family
  • Kindinis Family 
  • Ricchiuti Family
  • Sip & Pinch