Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast – A Heartfelt Celebration

On March 4, 2025, the South Shore YMCA hosted its Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast at Laura’s Center for the Arts in Hanover. Guests were greeted by Y staff and Executive Board members as they received recognition for their time and talents in supporting the Y, and were treated to a delicious breakfast prepared by The Chef’s Table catering in Marshfield.

Executive Board Chair, Mike Mullin, took the stage to welcome volunteers and guests. “I am proud to be part of an organization that values volunteers so deeply,” said Mullin. “Together, we strengthen our community through the programs and services provided by the Y. I want to extend a special thank you to our partners who are here today, working alongside us to benefit our communities.”

Mullin then acknowledged the presence of several distinguished guests, including Plymouth County Sheriff Joseph MacDonald and his team, President & Executive Director of Quincy Chamber of Commerce Julie Pagano, and President of Hanover Chamber of Commerce Erin Richardson.

South Shore YMCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Paul Gorman, expressed his gratitude for volunteers old and new, saying, “Some of you are volunteering for the first time, and some have been with us for 30, 40, even 50 years. Our volunteers do more for our Y, give more to our Y, and are most connected to our mission. Thank you for everything that you’ve done and hopefully everything you will do in the future.”

“Volunteers are the backbone of everything we do,” continued Gorman. We couldn’t do so many of our Y programs or special fundraising events that raise hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for the community without the expertise and help from our volunteers. Even our incredible buildings — from our camps to our branches — every single one of our Y buildings was spearheaded by volunteers, who drove fundraising and connected us to the community for support in bringing these buildings to life.”

Mary Orne, Chief Development Officer for the South Shore Y, took the stage to recognize the impact of several long-time volunteers and partners including Jim Spinale, a retired science teacher who has been volunteering at the South Shore YMCA Nature Center in Norwell for over 25 years. Known affectionately as “Mister Jim,” he has inspired countless children with his love of learning and science. Orne shared a touching story about a new student who found comfort in Jim’s class, illustrating the profound impact he has on the community. In appreciation, Jim was presented with a book of paintings and notes from the children at the Nature Center Preschool.

“Mr. Jim is a gift to us all,” said Orne. “At 92, he continues teaching our young students and inspiring us all that we all have something to give.”

Orne then introduced Bob Demaggio, who founded the Y’s volunteer-based Aquatics Partnership Program, a free adaptive fitness and recreation program for members with physical disabilities.

“Bob started as a volunteer and grew into a dedicated leader,” shared Orne. “He has grown the program to help more and more participants out of their wheelchairs and into the Y pool to enjoy swimming for exercise and recreation. His passion for inclusion ensures everyone feels welcome and supported.”

As he stood to accept his award, Demaggio credited the devotion of the people who volunteer in the Partnership Program for the program’s 14-year success. “The people that we serve do more for us than we do for them,” said Demaggio, “and that’s the bottom line.”

The final honoree was the team from Blue Cross/Blue Shield, represented by Michelle Pratt and Pauline Murnin. For over a decade, BCBSMA’s Blue Crews have supported the South Shore YMCA’s efforts to combat food insecurity. Their hands-on involvement and unwavering commitment have significantly expanded the Y’s Family Farm’s impact, making a lasting mark in the fight against food insecurity on the South Shore.

South Shore YMCA President, Trevor Williams, then took the stage to recognize all the volunteers present. He called up representatives from various volunteer groups, including Food Pantry volunteers, Quincy Public Schools collaboration volunteers, StayStrong Program volunteers, program volunteers, event volunteers, Farms & Gardens volunteers, and Holiday program volunteers. Each group received a special gift of recognition and gathered for a group photo.

Williams then recognized the critical role of the South Shore YMCA Executive Board and Committees. “Our Y is led by volunteers,” shared Williams. “Their time and expertise helps guide the staff to ensure financial stability, continued improvements and to set a vision for the future to strengthen our communities here with us today.” Williams thanked representatives from the Executive Board who attended the event, including Mike Mullin, Stephanie Bandzak, Larry DiNardo, Julie Ellis, Mark Dickinson and Alex Clark.

As the event drew to a close, Williams shared, “In 2024, we logged a total of 10,314 volunteer hours from over 453 volunteers. Thank you all for your incredible dedication and hard work.”

The Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast was a heartfelt celebration of the selfless contributions made by volunteers, leaving everyone inspired and grateful for the strong sense of community fostered by the South Shore YMCA. For information on volunteer opportunities at the South Shore YMCA, visit ssymca.org/volunteers.