by Aidan Krantz
9/30/2018

Give Back to Givers is a 501(c)(3) certified nonprofit whose mission is to promote the spirit of volunteerism in Holliston by organizing ways for people to show their appreciation to Holliston’s many volunteers.  Each month, a “Volunteer of the Month” is honored to highlight their service and dedication to the town of Holliston and to show how important volunteerism is to Holliston.  

Gina Stucchi is the September Honoree.

What have you done in the past as volunteer work?
Gina: Besides the things I have listed below as current volunteer work, I have volunteered at some Lions' events, Holliston in Bloom, Relay for Life, numerous school activities, St. Mary's, and I have spoken about addiction at many events around the state. I was also a Stephen Minister, and I taught religious education at New England Chapel.

What do you currently do as volunteer work?
Gina: Currently I am the website/social media manager for Celebrate Holliston, Chairperson for Holliston Drug & Alcohol Awareness Coalition, coordinator of booths for both the Spring Stroll and the Holiday Stroll, Narcan trainer for the town of Holliston, a Recovery Coach, room parent, Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life, and I serve communion at my church. I also volunteer as needed for other organizations.

What made you want to get involved in volunteering?
Gina: My parents, Mark and Linda Ahronian, are mega-volunteers and a big reason why I started volunteering. My parents started off their volunteerism as Lions and both have received the Citizen of the Year award given by Celebrate Holliston for their contributions to Holliston. They inspire me to be selfless and to be part of the community.

What is your favorite part of volunteering?
Gina: Doing for others, or just being around other people and being part of something bigger, that's what I love about volunteering. I also like that people know they can count on me to answer their questions or take the time to help them understand a process better, especially when doing work related to HDAAC. Being a Narcan trainer has been especially rewarding, because I'm providing folks with a life-saving medication, which gives them peace of mind.

What have you gotten out of volunteering?
Gina: I've made a lot of new friends and acquaintances. I always tell people, "The easiest way to meet people in your town is by volunteering." It's way too easy for most of us, myself included, to scroll through Instagram all day and isolate ourselves. Volunteering not only gives me a feeling of belonging to the community, it gives me a chance to step away from my norm and do something rewarding.

Thank you, Gina Stucchi.