At Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights, grief is turning into grit. Students and families have launched a campaign called “Forge Strong” to refresh the school’s courtyard and cafeteria after a student died by suicide in the cafeteria on April 20. The push is about more than paint and plants: organizers say it is meant to brighten key spaces and give students a real say in how their school heals.
According to WOIO, the idea started with freshman Justin Purcel, who brought his vision to the Valley Forge Football Parents Club. From there, students, parents and community members created a GoFundMe, gathered supplies and lined up volunteers for cleanup and beautification days. The district and organizers say local businesses and volunteers have already stepped up, and students are being asked for input at every stage of the project.
The fundraiser, listed as “Forge Strong: rebuilding spaces & restoring hope,” had pulled in nearly $4,000, according to Cleveland.com. Valley Forge principal Janine Andrzejewski, who is retiring at the end of the school year, urged the Patriot community to “remember that each of you is ‘forge strong,’” and noted there is no formal timeline yet for when the projects will be completed.
Students Take the Lead on the Look
Organizers stress that students will drive the design, deciding how the money is used and how the refreshed spaces will feel. That includes everything from seating options to landscaping meant to encourage connection. The focus is on the cafeteria and courtyard, and requests for donations have included mulch, grass seed, plants, outdoor furniture and drinks to keep volunteer crews going.
How to Lend a Hand
Community members can support Forge Strong by donating through the campaign page shared on the district’s social media channels, or by contacting the Valley Forge Football Parents Club to arrange supply drop-offs or volunteer shifts. Local businesses, including paint suppliers, have already pledged materials, and organizers say they plan to schedule small volunteer days as logistics come together.
District officials say the effort is as much about restoring a sense of safety and community as it is about any physical upgrade, and that counseling and support remain available to students and staff. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for support.
