In many ways Michael Nicastro has become the face of the East Boston neighborhood Health Center. As the Health Center’s community outreach director Nicastro is always in the neighborhood looking for ways EBNHC can help people and other organizations.
However, Nicastro’s willingness to lend a hand extends beyond his Health Center duties and is evident in his years of volunteerism in Eastie.
On September 17 at the Revere Hotel, Boston, East Boston APAC’s parent company, Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) will honor Nicastro and 17 other outstanding volunteers who provide extraordinary assistance that helps put Boston-area residents on pathways to better lives.
The annual event celebrates the voluntary efforts of individuals who work tirelessly to address and placate the plight of Boston’s underprivileged residents and communities through voluntary leadership and service.
“Michael never hesitates to help APAC and the families we serve,” said APAC Director Amy Lima. “He has held numerous workshops for Head Start families and provided many other services. The East Boston APAC is thankful to have such an energetic, kind and loyal friend.”
Nicastro has given 35 years of service to the EBNHC. He has expanded the EBNHC’s community outreach and developed its safety programs and is now the Director of Community Outreach. A longtime supporter of APAC, Nicastro also fostered the health center’s ongoing relationship with Cradles to Crayons, an organization that helps provide children with essential items such as toys and clothing.
“It is a great honor and privilege to be named a Community Hero by ABCD,” said Nicastro. “I love working with the staff at our local APAC Office which is truly a grass roots, open door operation. I feel lucky to have been welcomed by the staff at East Boston APAC to help make our Community a better place to live. Whether it’s teaching our Summer Youth kids CPR, or providing window guards and falls prevention classes to young parents, or child clothing packs from Cradles to Crayons, ABCD gives me the opportunity to feel better about myself by helping others. “
EBNHC CEO Manny Lopes said Nicastro has dedicated his entire career to not only helping improve the Health Center but the community as a whole.
“Mike (Nicastro) has spent his lifetime helping others without the expectation of anything in return,” said Lopes. “We want to congratulate Mike on an honor that is well deserved.”
ABCD President/CEO John Drew said that every day when ABCD opens its doors across the city, hundreds of volunteers make a difference for people seeking assistance.
“Volunteers are an integral part of who we are,” said Drew. “We are so grateful for the board members, food pantry helpers, student interns and others who give of their time and talent and make a difference in so many lives.”
Cutlines,
East Boston APAC and ABCD will honor EBNHC Community Outreach Director Michael Nicastro this month for his lifetime of community volunteerism.