Congratulations, Antonio Casiello!

Communications & PR Manager, Erica Fitzhugh presents Antonio Casiello with a certificate for being selected as a finalist in the Who Powers You Contest.

Antonio Casiello Named as Southeastern Electric Finalist in Regional Who Powers You Contest

Antonio Casiello from Sioux Falls is passionate about suicide prevention and his commitment to this cause is what earned him recognition as a Southeastern Electric finalist in the fourth annual regional Who Powers You contest. The Who Powers You contest is hosted by the region’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives to highlight local figures who are making a difference in their communities.

“Antonio is a tireless advocate for mental health awareness and a compassionate guide for those navigating the painful journey of losing a loved one to suicide,” wrote Angela Drake, a friend who nominated Antonio for the contest. “Through the Longley Foundation, founded in memory of Ben Longley, someone deeply loved and lost, Antonio has created a powerful platform that transforms grief into hope.”

Antonio worked with Ben Longley’s parents to start a suicide prevention foundation in his memory. “Our mission is to increase mental health awareness and help support programs that are providing mental health solutions and helping to prevent suicide,” shared Antonio. The Foundation’s annual fundraiser is a golf tournament which Antonio plans and coordinates. Their primary volunteer project is the Reach In program. Over 20 volunteers, called Caring Companions, visit patients at Avera Behavioral Health each month. During these visits, the volunteers play board games, create arts and crafts projects and visit with the patients. The Caring Companions are bringing hope and positivity to patients while showing them that others care about them.

When asked how others can get involved with the Longley Foundation, Antonio said “We are always looking for volunteers! Email me at Antonio.casiello5@gmail.com or go to our website: longleyfoundation.org/ to sign up as a Caring Companion or as a volunteer for the golf tournament fundraiser.”

“You can start small, doing something is better than doing nothing. Getting involved, regardless of what it is can change your life for the better – don’t wait until it’s too late especially when it comes to loved ones,” urged Antonio.

Antonio’s story was featured on Keloland Living on April 17. A recap of the segment is also available on the contest’s webpage at www.WhoPowersYouContest.com.

Three final winners will be selected by a panel of judges based on the impact that they have on the community. Weekly finalists will be announced and featured on Keloland Living and the three contest winners will be announced on Keloland Living on May 22. The Who Powers You contest grand prize winner will receive a $3,000 prize. A second place winner will receive $1,500 and the contest’s third place winner will receive $500.

If you or someone you know is suicidal, please contact your physician or call the suicide prevention hotline at 988.

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