Erie County Legislator Joseph C. Lorigo (West Seneca) presented a proclamation to Christopher LaRussa, a Boy Scout with Troop 616 in West Seneca, in recognition of his many philanthropic achievements during the Legislature’s Oct. 11, 2012 session. Most notably, Christopher recently received the Boy Scouts of America – National Meritorious Award and Medal for his work with the New York State Cyber-Bullying Law. Sharing his own story as a victim of bullying, Christopher helped shape the NYS anti cyber-bullying law and is helping to protect other youth from being harassed and bullied.

“When I read through the credentials of this young man, I was in awe of his accomplishments and his dedication to the community. He has done more in 11 years than most people do in a lifetime. From selling his toys and donating the money to Kaleida, to vocalizing the issues of bullying so precisely that his verbiage was used in a state law,  this young man truly has gone above and beyond and is most deserving of this honor,” said Legislator Lorigo. “I am honored to recognize him and thank him.”

Joining Christopher for the presentation were his parents Mark and Margie LaRussa. Mark LaRussa is the Assistant Scout Master with Troop 616.

Christopher was also honored by Legislator Edward A. Rath who championed the Erie County Cyber-Bullying Law last year, which preceded NYS’s law.