From Anna Curran

Each Month, Give Back to Givers honors a “Volunteer of the Month” to highlight his/her service and dedication to the town of Holliston, and to show how important volunteerism is to the town. This month we honor Keely Krantz.  

• What have you done in the past as volunteer work? 

I began volunteering in high school – I was paired with a wonderful young lady named Allison who lived with cerebral palsy and cognitive challenges.  I loved spending time with her and we had a special connection.   Allison passed away in 1998 but I still keep in touch with her family, she made such an impact on my life.  As a student at Boston College, I was involved in their fantastic service organization called “Pulse” – through this organization I became a “Big Sister” to a young teenager who lived in a group home.   As an adult, I have been involved in various volunteer roles in my hometown community of Holliston.  

• What do you currently do as a volunteer? 

I am currently the President and Board Member of the Holliston Pantry Shelf.  It has been the most challenging yet rewarding volunteer position I’ve ever held.  I love being part of the Pantry community. 

• What made you want to get involved with volunteering?              

I was really fortunate to have some early volunteer experiences in high school and college that were very formative.   I think the feeling you get from helping someone else is a gift you give yourself.   I love seeing how active so many young people are involved with volunteering in Holliston!  

• What is your favorite part of volunteering?   

The expression “People might not remember what you say, but they will remember how you made them feel” really resonates with me. Every single one of us has the ability to make another person feel better – it’s all about kindness, respect, humility and compassion. Making someone’s day a little brighter or better is the best feeling.

• What have you gotten out of volunteering?  

Well, I’ve learned a lot about how to operate a small business! I never envisioned being President of a food pantry, but the opportunity has given me the chance to learn a lot about leadership and the challenges that come with that, especially during a pandemic.   But more than anything,  it has made me connect to others in a much deeper way.   Hands have been held out to me to help me in my lifetime, and to be able to hold my hand out to help others is very gratifying and makes my soul very happy.