By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Hudson – Gabby Melo of Hudson got a standing ovation from hundreds of guests when she was announced as Volunteer of the Year by the United Way of Tri-County (UWTC) at its annual recognition breakfast, held April 9 at the Sheraton Framingham Hotel & Conference Center.
Melo was honored for her volunteer efforts at CHAPS in Hudson, a program that offers full- and part-day preschool, and afterschool programs for elementary and middle school students. Starting two years ago, she has been helping children ages 3, 4 and 5 at the Hubert School three days a week for three hours a day.
“It’s my dream job to work with kids,” she said.
She believes that volunteering in the community also benefits her.
“It gives me self-esteem,” she shared.
Melo is a Hudson High School 2011 alum and recent graduate of the Evolution program at the Assabet Valley Collaborative Alternative School in Marlborough. Evolution serves special education high school graduates whose individualized education plan (IEP) teams have identified a need for a post-graduate vocational/transitional program up to age 22.
She was familiar with CHAPS because of her participation in its programs while attending Forest Avenue Elementary School.
Her ongoing help with the children is welcomed, noted Melissa Harold, a CHAPS director.
“Part of her Evolution program was to get out into the community and do some volunteering,” she explained. “Gabby came to our program because she wanted to be with preschool children.”
Among the tasks she performs with the children are reading storybooks, preparing activities, assisting with puzzles and setting up snacks.
The theme of this year’s recognition breakfast was “a story of change.” Melo has steadily gained confidence over the past two years, Harold observed.
“When we first met Gabby, she was shy and nervous because it was a new experience for her,” she said. “Now, we see her being confident, having positive energy and giving love to the children. She’s that person who is always shining. The kids love her and she’s part of our team.”
Joining the honoree at the recognition breakfast were her family members, and some teachers and staff from CHAPS and the Evolution program.
Melo noticed the reaction of a particular family member when she was announced as Volunteer of the Year.
“My mother was crying,” she said. “She was very proud of me.”
For information about UWTC, visit uwotc.org. Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/uwotc.