A Legacy of Hope: Jordan Porco Foundation $1.1 Million Gift Advances Youth Suicide Prevention

Following 15 years of advancing youth mental health and suicide prevention, the Jordan Porco Foundation will dissolve, while Fresh Check Day, For What’s Next, the Nine out of Ten Ambassador Program, and Check In continue through Connecticut Children’s Youth Suicide Prevention Center. Through their gift of $1.1 million to Connecticut Children’s, the Jordan Porco Foundation programs’ longstanding impact, including recognition through the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC), will carry forward through Connecticut Children’s.

The transition will preserve the historic strength and impact of these programs while creating opportunities to expand their reach through Connecticut Children’s expertise in youth mental health, suicide prevention, research, education and advocacy. In addition to the continuation of these crucial programs, the Jordan Porco Foundation’s gift will be recognized with the naming of the Jordan Porco Youth Wellness Suite in Connecticut Children’s Emergency Department and the creation of The Jordan Porco Youth Suicide Prevention Endowed Fund, which will provide ongoing support for youth suicide prevention programs at Connecticut Children’s.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled as we announce the next chapter in our story,” said Marisa Giarnella, LCSW, Co-Founder of the Jordan Porco Foundation. “Connecticut Children’s has been a trusted partner, and I know they will not only honor the legacy of this work but also continue to grow the impact each one of our programs has on youth across the country. Jordan Porco Foundation has always been about spreading hope, and today, all I feel is hope for the future.”

The transition comes at a particularly meaningful time, as September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a national observance that raises awareness of suicide prevention and the importance of supporting mental health. Youth mental health remains a significant public health concern, with 38% of college students ages 18 and older reporting a diagnosis of anxiety and 32% reporting a diagnosis of depression (Healthy Minds Study, 2025).

“Fresh Check Day is a proven model for reaching young adults and teens,” said Kevin Borrup, DrPH, JD, MPA, Director of Operations, Connecticut Children’s Youth Suicide Prevention Center. “We have been happy to partner with the Jordan Porco Foundation over the last 10 years and witness its growth and impact.”

The transition is a natural extension of Connecticut Children’s commitment to the physical and emotional health of children and families. Connecticut Children’s recognizes the many staff, partners, supporters and donors whose contributions have shaped these programs over the past 15 years and looks forward to building on that impact through the Youth Suicide Prevention Center.