Mission & Inspiration
The Kindred Herd Foundation honors and celebrates the lives of Nathan Manning Record and Carolyn M. Rusiackas and is inspired by their love of community and their dedication to service to, and for, others. Both Nathan and Carolyn were enthusiastic, faith filled, positive people who believed in the power of community and the responsibility we have to one another.
Nathan Manning Record
Nathan Manning Record, a forever 11 year old, is the son of Daniel and Jennifer Record, and younger brother to Charlotte. Born with congenital heart disease, Nathan was a “heart hero” to many people, although he much preferred being known for his strength, energy, loyalty, enthusiasm, and positive outlook on life.
Nathan was a happy, compassionate, funny, faith filled child who loved his family and friends unconditionally and who loved learning in many ways. Nathan had a strong bond with his older sister Charlotte, who was his favorite travel companion, worthiest competitor, trusted confidant, and biggest supporter. Nathan was happiest when helping to plan a family road trip, quizzing people on sports and presidential trivia, and being a dare-devil on roller coasters and other wild rides. Nathan enjoyed being competitive with friends and family, especially when playing golf or basketball, rooting hard for the NY Giants and Boston Red Sox, and being involved with his school community. Nathan always saw the good in people and wanted to help others in his community.
Nathan’s parents and sister started the Kindred Herd Foundation to honor Nathan’s memory and to forever remember his legacy through creating a supportive community for other families grieving the loss of their child.
Carolyn M. Rusiackas
Carolyn M. Rusiackas left a legacy of love, compassion, empathy, and service in several communities she supported throughout New England, including as a teacher and real estate agent in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Most profoundly, Carolyn served as a chaplain as part the campus ministry team at Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut beginning in the early 1990s. She spent over two decades forming, mentoring and accompanying hundreds of students in their faith through their service at mass as Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors, including Dan and Jenn Record. She supported countless students in their community service to the greater Fairfield community through Hunger Clean Ups, service trips, and the formation of many community oriented groups. Carolyn continued to support students as they became alumni and began their own careers and families.
Carolyn left full time ministry at Fairfield in the mid-2010s and became one of the first spiritual directors to join the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University. Carolyn firmly believed that “all are welcome” and kept in touch with hundreds of her former students, including the Records, until her death in 2025.
Carolyn knew of the Records desire to create a community of support for bereaved families and it is with her support that the Kindred Herd Foundation was created.