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Editor's Note: This story has been corrected to reflect Ricci's status as a volunteer crew member rather than an EMT.
KATONAH, N.Y - For most of the population that enjoys a hearty Thanksgiving night two words usually appear immediately after the completion of dinner: rest and relaxation. Not, however, for Katonah resident Mike Ricci.
Ricci is a freshman at Saint Michaels College in Colchester, VT, and is a volunteer crewmember with the Katonah-Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps. While most college freshman come home for the holidays to only recharge and replenish their palate, Ricci chose to throw on his volunteer garb as well.
Not only did he agree to give his time and efforts, but he also did so on Thanksgiving night, taking the 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM shift at the corps. His parents were surprised by his decision, but not for the reason on the surface.
They said, Its your birthday, you shouldnt leave!' Ricci said. Ricci is turning 18 on Thanksgiving Day, and the freshman could not picture himself spending it in a different place than the corps office.
My friends ask, why would you do that when you could have food all night, and then just pass out? he explained. I say, well Im not a big fan of Thanksgiving food, and Ill eventually need to get away from the family anyway.
Joking aside, its the thought of volunteering in general that makes Ricci feel he is fulfilling his duties as a fellow citizen. When Im a volunteer, I dont think about helping people just to say Im doing so. I think its the right thing to do to designate some time and to just help out, he said.
Riccis decision to give the time and effort away from his family on Thanksgiving is less like a chore, and more like a commitment to a different kin. I just love this place so much, and I miss it. Volunteering is the best thing Ive ever done in my life, he said. The volunteers are the nicest people Ive ever met. Its like a family, you cant get that most places.
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