In late August, we were shocked and saddened upon hearing that one of GNA’s valued teachers was involved in an accident. Nina Herbst was walking through her neighborhood with her husband, children, and niece when a speeding car made its way onto the sidewalk. Members of the family were severely injured in the crash. Doctor Annette Mann, a neighbor to the Herbst family, was just getting ready to run errands when she heard the crash. She rushed outside with her stethoscope and began to asses the situation. She helped stabilize the family before the emergency responders arrived.

When interviewed by the Citizen’s Voice, she explained, “It’s truly a miracle.”

In an effort to help the family in need, fundraisers sprouted up around the state, each one raising money to help pay for the family’s medical bills. A fundraiser was hosted on youcare.com by Nina’s cousin, and with over 1.4K shares on various social media platforms, the fundraiser has raised $56,647, surpassing the original goal of $25,000.

Mountain Top businesses worked together to fundraise for the family. Brocca sold raffle tickets for a dollar each. Design Works Salon, Boxes and Bows, and Shooting Starz Gymnastics in Wilkes-Barre donated gift certificates to the raffle. In addition, Tony’s Pizza sold pizza slices for a dollar. Carone’s Market also helped raise money for the cause. 

Marywood and Wilkes University teamed up to host a benefit for the family as Nina is a Wilkes alumni and the former assistant soccer coach at Marywood. The two universities hosted a soccer game where Nina’s friends and family sold scarves to the players and those who attended. Rainbow Jewelers donated $300 worth of jewelry to the raffle baskets that were being given away. More than a dozen field hockey players took turns donating to the family.  All together, more than $1,300 was made and donated to the family.

Meanwhile, at American Legion Post 781 in Mountain Top, 70 bikers came together to ride for 2-and-a-half-hours through the Poconos in honor of the family. Food was grilled and sold, and a local duo even offered to play at the fundraiser. All proceeds and donations were sent to the Herbst family. Chris and Joe Rowski, Nina Herbst’s aunt and uncle, assisted with the arrangements.

While the family is recovering, the community continues their endless support. Please keep the family in your thoughts. You can donate using the link below.

Donate here!