Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro presented Alden’s Gramza family with an award on Wednesday for their work on behalf of thee blood and organ donor organization Connect Life and their charity, Andrew’s Army.

Andrew’s Army was created as a non profit organization in memory of Alden resident Andrew Gramza, who passed away in 2010. It raises money for Connect Life to promote awareness of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

“Whereas Andrew’s Army’s original goal was to donate $100,000 to Connect Life to save lives in Andrew’s memory, and to date the organization has surpassed that goal by donating over $150,000,” Todaro said in a proclamation he read Wednesday at Alden’s American Legion Post.

In addition, the Army has touched the lives of over 10,100 patients in local hospitals by collecting blood products through Connect Life. The organization has not only been involved with the Alden community but also established a scholarship fund in Andrew’s name at Alden High School, where three $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually.

To conclude the ceremony, Todaro congratulated the Gramzas “for honoring Andrew’s life, their involvement in the community, and supporting Connect Life for ten years.”

WACS News and the Alden Community congratulates the Gramza family for their hard work and dedication through the years. We are truly thankful for everything you do.