Peoples' Bank to Support Gina's Gallop

The Peoples' Bank of Arlington Heights, already a sponsor of numerous summer events for families throughout the community has announced that it will also serve as a sponsor for the 3rd Annual Gina's Gallop. Run by The Gina Giancola SAFE Foundation, Gina's Gallop includes a 100-yard dash for kids, a 3K walk, and a 5K run, all scheduled for June 8th at Arlington Park.

The Gina Giancola SAFE Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to communications centered on suicide prevention. The foundation was established by the family of Gina Ginacola in her memory, working to promote awareness and reduce the stigma associated with suicide and depression. Proceeds from Gina's Gallop will be used to provide up to $6,000 in college scholarships, as well as providing financial assistance to Erika's Lighthouse and The Catholic Charities LOSS Program.

"While Gina's Gallop is a relatively new event here in Arlington Heights, I was very impressed by their commitment and the way the organizers have used a deeply painful experience to bring something good, positive, and fun to those in need, and the community as a whole," said Peoples' Bank President Frank Appleby. "We are very pleased to add Gina's Gallop to the long list of events we support here in Arlington Heights each summer."

In addition to the run and walk, Gina's Gallop will include food and drink, live music, games for kids and adults, pony rides, a petting zoo, and the Shedd Aquarium Interactive Display. The event kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday June 8th at Arlington International Race Track.

"Arlington Park has been very generous by allowing us to hold our event there," said organizer and father of Gina Giancola, Mark Giancola. "We are now fortunate to include The Peoples' Bank among our sponsors which allows us to dedicate even more funding to our core cause of opening up communications regarding depression and suicide prevention among young people." The scholarships will be presented on June 8th to students who display compassion and academic drive.

Registration for the run and walk is open until June 1. Details can be found at http://ginasgallop.eventbrite.com. For information on The Peoples' Bank, visit www.peoplesbanc.com, or follow the bank on Twitter @peoplesbankah.