Melrose's Volunteers of the Year

Last week, we asked you if knew someone who has spent hours working for free at a local non-profit organization, mentoring children after work or picking up trash—and to .

Here are the nominations we received:

Preston Johnson

Mary said, "Should be Preston Johnson of F.I.S.H. He is driving people to medical appointments daily. He is the head of it and coordinates all volunteer callers and drives."

April Kiley

J. Dwyer said, "I like many people volunteer here and there for a few hours at a time, but April Kiley is a women with a huge heart, incredible energy, and a caring nature that can't be measured. I nominate April for Community Volunteer of the Year. She is an amazing woman.

April and the whole Kiley family open their home and hearts to many foster children. April, Heath and their three children have been loving and caring for a very special baby that has many serious needs. They have tirelessly nurtured and cared for this cutie pie 24 hours a day for over a year. They have also welcomed many other foster children in their home.

There is an overwhelming need for foster families in our area. April and Heath never turn anyone away. She is an unsung hero and would never want any attention for her actions but she makes Melrose and the world a better place!"

Emily Rubenstein

On our Facebook Page, Daniel gave a shoutout to the Rubenstein, who is not technically a volunteer—she's the only paid employee  of The Bridge—but coordinates volunteer efforts in all Melrose Schools. Daniel called her the "queen of all volunteers ... Emily Rubenstein! She does wonderful work!"