826 Boston is lucky to have so many amazing volunteers, and today we’re excited to recognize two of our Volunteers of the Year, Ashna Shah and Misty Hathaway!
Both volunteers have supported students through multiple semesters, making strong connections with 826 Boston students and staff. This year our Volunteers of the Year will be awarded two tickets each to attend our Night of 1,000 Stories with Kara Swisher on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
A few thoughts from our Volunteers of the Year:
Ashna: “I’ve been volunteering with 826 Boston for almost four years. I started through Northeastern University’s Community Volunteers Program and decided to stay after graduation because I love working with students. I always leave each shift with a smile on my face! One of my favorite parts of volunteering is getting to know my students’ interests: whether we’re discussing fantasy books, learning how to play chess together, or trying new card games. I also love getting to read student creative writing pieces. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants and cafes in Boston, curling up with a good thriller or mystery, and being on the tennis court with friends. I can’t wait to keep working with the students I already know and to meet new ones this fall.”
Misty: “I moved from Minnesota to Boston 11 years ago for a job at Mass General. When I transitioned from my full-time job in healthcare to part-time consulting a few years ago, I sought out volunteer opportunities that would match my skills and interests. I speak some languages and love working with younger people, and a good friend connected me to 826 Boston, and Boston International Newcomers Academy in Dorchester. I’ve loved having a reason to travel to a different part of the city, the opportunity to learn with the students, the challenge of understanding each person, and figuring out a way to connect with them, and to witness the students’ tremendous progress over the course of a school year. The 826 Boston team in the Writers’ Room and Boston International Newcomers Academy teachers are terrific. I enjoy going in every week!”
Want to volunteer with 826 Boston? Get started here.
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