About the Foundation

The Mike Geltrude Foundation, Inc. was established about a month before Mike's passing for the purpose of raising funds for melanoma awareness and research. The genesis of the foundation was Mike's friends feeling it would be appropriate to support him in the same way he had done for so many over the years. Knowing that Mike would not want to be honored, the idea of having a dinner to raise money and awareness became the focus. Mike was pleased by the prospects of hosting a fundraising dinner that would help prevent people from getting melanoma and find a cure for those who already had it. However, he emphasized repeatedly that he would not be supportive of an event that focused on him instead of helping others. Unfortunately, Mike passed before he was able to see the overwhelming response to the foundation that bears his name.

The initial committee of about 25 of Mike's friends and family was formed and motivated by the goal of capturing Mike's spirit in their work for the foundation. The foundation has already begun to move beyond the fundraising dinner by attempting to influence various parts of the community by establishing various programs to increase sun safety and melanoma awareness. With that in mind, the Mike Geltrude Foundation's goals were established as follows:

  • Raise funds to support various national melanoma foundations that focus on awareness, detection, research and patient support services
  • Initiate programs in the local school systems and with various community organizations to educate students, parents, teachers, and school nurses of the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of sun safety
  • Assist local governments in organizing and publicizing free skin cancer screening programs
  • Work with community recreation departments to stress the importance of sun safety to parents and children while participating in outdoor sports
  • Support restrictions on tanning facilities for those under the age of 18
  • Fund various Scholarship opportunities for Nutley and Cedar Grove High School Students

The foundation's function is based upon the principal of education ~ educating youngsters about the dangers of skin cancer, educating athletes to be vigilant when participating outdoors sports, teaching parents the importance of protecting their children's skin from harmful rays, and finally, encouraging higher education by awarding Scholarships.

Mike's passion in life was teaching, and as a wise man once said: "Great teachers continue to teach long after they are gone."

To be a part of the foundation or to make a donation, please visit our website at www.mikegeltrudefoundation.org or call 973-667-8650 for more information. You may also send donations to:

Mike Geltrude Foundation, Inc.
c/o Sal Cocco
281 Franklin Ave
Nutley, NJ 07110