The Touched by Nathan Foundation gets a new name and a new home

Staff report

BOARDMAN

Through a $50,000 grant, the Touched by Nathan Foundation, founded by Struthers couple Ken and Vicki Pavalko, has been turned over to Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.

Now, as the Touched by Nathan Fund, the hospital will continue the mission and plans to make an even bigger difference in the lives of families with medically fragile babies, said JoAnn Stock, senior director of development for Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.

“The community holds Touched by Nathan Foundation and the Pavalkos in such a high regard. We’re thankful for the work they’ve done and are honored to continue their mission,” Stock said.

“Every day, babies are born with fragile conditions that threaten future hopes and dreams. For these families who are devastated by such circumstances, the Touched by Nathan Fund offers education, help and comfort to inspire hope in an understanding and compassionate way,” she said.

The Pavalkos formed the foundation 18 years ago in honor of their son, Nathan Charles Pavalko, who was born with a congenital birth defect and died 40 days after his birth.

After receiving tremendous support from friends, family and the community, the couple wanted to find a way to help other families in similar situations.

They particularly wanted to help those who didn’t have a strong support network.

“Through the years, the foundation became more in honor of our community and our babies, some who are no longer with us,” said Vicki Pavalko.

The Touched by Nathan Fund offers assistance to local families as they deal with the financial stresses associated with having a medically fragile baby.

It will help provide assistance for transportation costs for doctor and hospital visits, car beds for infants who are not able to sit upright, hospital meal vouchers for parents, funeral expenses and more, officials said.

“The partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley will make a tremendous impact in helping even more families in need,” said Ken Pavalko.

The community can support the Touched by Nathan Fund on Sunday during its 12th annual Reverse Raffle, Fun & Games fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Banquet Center, 343 Via Mount Carmel Ave., Youngstown.

For information, visit www.touchedbynathan.org or call 330-629-9059.