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Community Corner

Citizens, Volunteer NH recognizes Jeff Maistrosky with Good Citizen Award

Citizens Bank and Volunteer NH have named Jeff Maistrosky a “Good Citizen” for his outstanding commitment to the Nashua community. The Good Citizen Award honors people who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to volunteerism and, through their efforts, strengthen the communities where they live and work. As part of the award, a $250 donation is being made in Maistrosky’s honor to the Independent Karate School Scholarship Foundation. 

 

“Jeffrey is a true asset to the Nashua community,” said Sanjay Sood, Citizens Bank Nashua branch manager. “He embodies the spirit of volunteerism with his positive attitude and willingness to help whenever needed. We are proud to work with Volunteer NH to showcase people like Jeff and the tremendous work they do in our New Hampshire communities.”

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2014 marks Maistrosky’s 10th year of service to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Each year, Jeff co-ordinates a large group (40-50 people) of Independent Karate School (IKS) staff, students and parents to volunteer at the annual Light The Night Walk at Greeley Park in Nashua, NH. In keeping with the IKS philosophy that it is “essential for martial artists to play a positive role in their community, wherever that may be, and to share their strength to make a difference in the lives of others”, Jeff and the IKS volunteers manage all aspects of the event, including registration, t-shirt pick up and passing out lighted balloons.  The central focus of these efforts is to ensure that the fundraising walkers, many of whom are survivors of blood cancer, have an enjoyable evening.

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Without Jeff’s substantial efforts from June to October (assisting with logistics) and the physical support he and the IKS volunteers offer for this event, the Light The Night Walk would not make the significant impact that it has over the years to blood cancer patients and their families in New Hampshire and across the United States. In the 2013 fiscal year, the Nashua Light The Night Walk raised $169,156.12 which contributed heavily towards the ability of LLS to provide $194,466.06 (as financial aid and co-pay assistance) directly to New Hampshire patients that same year.

Jeff’s commitment to the walk allows LLS staff more time to develop stronger relationships with those most in need of support. While the Light The Night Walk occurs annually, Jeff maintains a commitment with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society year round. Jeff volunteers at other events including the Boston Walk. His efforts are a testament to his passion and understanding of the LLS mission and his enthusiasm inspires so many to engage.  Jeff also volunteers time for several other local charities and community outlets, often with the assistance of his fellow IKS students and parents.  These include the High Hopes Foundation of NH, Nashua Rotary West’s Rockin Ribfest, the Nashua Parks & Recreation department, and the Humane Society for Greater Nashua.

 

“We are pleased to recognize Jeff for his steady, dedicated service,” said Gretchen Berger-Wabuti, executive director at Volunteer NH. “It’s clear that his commitment to volunteerism is making a positive impact on the lives of many community members.”

 

Volunteer NH, a nonprofit organization that promotes volunteerism and service in New Hampshire, sponsors and supports national service initiatives such as AmeriCorps. It also provides training, a volunteer matching service and volunteer-recognition programs.

 

The Good Citizen Award is part of Citizens Helping Citizens Strengthen Communities, the bank’s program designed to contribute to the economic vitality of the communities it serves. The awards will be presented on a monthly basis through November 2014, when all of this year’s Good Citizens will be honored at the Spirit of New Hampshire Awards ceremony.

 

Good Citizen Award nominations can be made online at www.volunteernh.org. Nominations are evaluated based on the long-term impact of the nominee’s service and how they have inspired others to get involved or contributed to a culture of volunteerism. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Questions may be directed to Charles Caldwell, administrative outreach officer, Volunteer NH, at 603.271.7200 or by sending an email to recognition@volunteernh.org

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