The phrase Can’t Hurt Steel started as a quiet expression of strength within the family of JJ Hanson—words they used to remind themselves they could withstand anything. 

Over time, those words became a rallying cry. What began with family turned into a village, a powerful community of people who show up, lift one another up, and believe in doing good when it matters most.

Thus began the festivities to enjoy good food and camaraderie, get reacquainted with fellow community members, look back on what has been accomplished within the community, and raise funds to further carry on the mission of the Can’t Hurt Steel Community Foundation. 

More than 200 people gathered on June 6 at the Trackside Manor at the Erie Hotel in Port Jervis with that purpose in mind. 

Can’t Hurt Steel was built on the heart and courage of JJ Hanson—a devoted brother, son, husband, father and Marine, a true friend to so many. JJ’s strength didn’t just come from what he endured. It came from how he lived. He believed that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, we can help others, lift each other up, and prove that you Can’t Hurt Steel. 

JJ and his wife Kris wanted to give back the support they had received while JJ valiantly fought the ravages of brain cancer; thus, the Can’t Hurt Steel Community Foundation was born.

Over the past 10 years, the foundation has grown in ways never imagined when it was first founded, providing financial support to families in crisis, scholarships to students who demonstrate strength and resilience, and funding for youth programs that shape tomorrow’s leaders. It has been a decade of giving and a lifetime of impact, which since the foundation’s inception totals over $200,000.

The program was emceed by Meg Hanson Blaut. 

A video presentation celebrated some of those community members whose lives have been touched by the outreach of the foundation. Many gave testimony that, in addition to the financial support they received, the sense of knowing that the community cared for them in their time of need was life-changing. 

Scholarship winners expressed appreciation for the lifting of some of the financial burden of pursuing higher education. Still others conveyed gratitude for the donations of equipment, funds and time to organizations whose goal is good health and well-being. 

In addition to the fundraising aspects of the evening—which included silent auction items, raffles and various games—three community members were recognized for their efforts that further the mission of Can’t Hurt Steel. 

The Volunteer of the Year honoree was Jack Kearney, who was recognized for showing up and working hard without need of recognition; in fact, he shies away from the spotlight while serving the community in which he was born, raised and is raising his own family. His work with the town’s Little League runs the gamut from caring for the fields and pursuing sponsorships and grants, to enhancing the ties between the Little League and local businesses. 

Continuing the sports theme, the Hometown Hero award was presented to Vincenzo “Coach Vin” Riina. Coach Vin serves the Eldred school community in countless ways: as a substitute teacher, mentor and coach of numerous modified, JV and varsity teams for both girls and boys. He is considered by his players to be not only a coach, but a friend.

The Can’t Hurt Steel award was bestowed upon Dr. Jedd Wolchok, an oncologist known world-wide for his work in revolutionizing cancer care. He  has played a pivotal role in making immunotherapy a life-changing standard of care, especially in the treatment of melanoma. In addition, he has gently guided neighbors through terrifying diagnoses, opened doors to world-class care, and stood by people in their darkest hours. A second-homeowner in Yulan, his local roots run even deeper; as a boy, he spent summers as a camper and staff member at Ten Mile River Scout Camps. 

Those in attendance at the joyous event left encouraged to be counted among those people who show up, lift one another up, and do good when it matters most.

For more information, visit www.canthurtsteelcommunityfoundation.org.