Kathy Shore Named Holliston in Bloom Community Champion

On the evening of Thursday, July 19th, Holliston in Bloom welcomed America in Bloom judges Douglas Airhart and Shannon Beatty with a reception at the Holliston Historical Society. Holliston in Bloom recognized each of its community supporters and named Kathy Shore as its 2018 Community Champion. Following is the text of her nomination for community champion:
We are excited to recognize a true leader who has demonstrated a vision for Holliston, exemplified selfless commitment and tireless devotion to the community. Holliston in Bloom proudly nominates Kathy Shore as our 2018 Community Champion.
Think dynamic energy and determination with Southern charm and you have Kathy Shore. Kathy brings a sunny disposition, warm welcome, and endless enthusiasm to everything she does. In the 25+ years since coming to Holliston, Kathy’s been a volunteer in numerous organizations and more often, chair or co-chair. And she’s found time to accomplish everything while fulfilling her calling as a full-time charge nurse.
Her most recent community success was as Chair of the 2017 America In Bloom Symposium. She rallied a crew to create four days of amazing activities for visitors to enjoy. She crafted a weekend that immersed them in Holliston and greater Boston in unique fashion. Kathy was determined to make sure that the local tour of Holliston made our guests feel welcome and allowed them to get a real sense of our community.
One of her very early Holliston organizations was the Newcomers Club. She spent several years in various board roles fostering community spirit and organizing events to raise funds for local schools, organizations, and departments, ultimately becoming its President.
She has served as a passionate Deacon of her church and continues to volunteer in many capacities fulfilling her own mission to helping anyone who needs it.
Kathy has spent over 20 years volunteering in Celebrate Holliston, our annual event that is attended by thousands, including multiple years as co-chair. With her boundless energy and creativity, she kept a focus on the traditions while she encouraged implementation of fresh ideas.
ServSafe certified since 2009, she runs the kitchen for numerous charity events around town. One of her joys is continuing to run the in Celebrate Holliston Food Tent where she has a loyal following of 25+ volunteers.
Kathy has co-chaired HIB for the past five years. But she is also the first one to get her hands dirty on any clean-up or planting day. She can cajole the most reluctant to give something a try and lend a hand. Local officials smile when they see her coming even though they know she comes with a request in hand.
The proof of her success is that people will rally to Kathy’ call for help, whatever the event or activity requires. She leads by example with a kindness of heart that makes the work fun for all the volunteers.
In 2015, Kathy received Holliston’s Citizen of the Year honors for her many years of helping to make Holliston a better place.
Kathy is, of course, the driving force of her family. Her two adult daughters, Laura and Anna, along with her husband Bob and Laura’s recently adopted son Salim, are the loves of her life.
Holliston is lucky to have this year’s nominee for AIB’s Community Champion Award among us. We are ever grateful for her years of service, kindness, and generosity.