Congratulations to Dominick! Volunteer Services manager Michele Gingras has these comments about our new volunteer of the month: “Dominick brings calm confidence, showing genuine care and attentiveness. He knows how to bring a playful energy when needed, especially to motivate and keep clients engaged. Reliable and dedicated, he consistently arrives on time and stays late to ensure everything is handled.”
Why we love him: Dominick serves as a sidewalker in therapy sessions and adaptive riding lessons. “My main goal is to assist in creating a positive and enjoyable experience for each rider and to provide support to the client to make certain they have the safest and most fulfilling time at Shea.”
Road to The Shea Center: “I learned about The Shea Center from my sister, who is currently at Tufts University in Boston pursuing a degree in occupational therapy. She spoke very highly of her experiences volunteering at The Shea Center: It was through her passion and motivation that inspired me to begin volunteering.”
Years of Service: Dominick began volunteering this past summer as a sidewalker/group helper at summer camp. His ability to connect with campers of different ages and abilities was clear from the start!
Lessons learned: “I’ve gained valuable experience in teamwork and have developed a better understanding of how to collaborate with clients who have diverse needs. I’ve also learned new techniques to ensure safety around horses and learned more about the role of animals in therapeutic practices.
Favorite Shea Center memories: “Some of my most cherished memories come from summer camp, especially the last day of each week-long camp. It was always bittersweet to say goodbye to the campers I had worked closely with; several campers expressed their gratitude for my support throughout the week. It was rewarding to know that I had made an impact on their experience at camp and how they were able to make a meaningful impact on me.”
When not volunteering at Shea, he can be found doing this: “I stay active playing soccer with friends. I also prioritize staying on top of my schoolwork and often try to work ahead to remain organized. I make time to go to the gym, focus on personal development, and strive to improve myself in any way possible.”
He finds his bliss…: “By working and helping others. Knowing that I can make an impact or help someone in any way possible brings me joy.”
