Ana Angelica Mercado

Parker Hill/Fenway

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It’s been said that charity begins at home. Part of Angelica “Annie” Mercado’s role as her mother’s caregiver included bringing her to the ABCD Neighborhood Service Center to assist her with the bingo games. Although her mother isn’t able to attend anymore, Annie has been a faithful volunteer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the site assisting senior clients – serving meals and helping with other activities, etc. for the past year.

She characterizes her motivation to volunteer at the ABCD Parker Hill/Fenway Neighborhood Service Center as “a way to say thank you for all the help that was given to my mother,” she said. 

A Puerto Rico native, Annie moved to Boston in 1991 where she fell in love, married and had children before returning home to live. Boston called and Annie returned in 2016 and became employed by a ride service for elders and. “ABCD’s senior program offers so much – groceries, entertainment meals, events and trips,” she said. “Many seniors are alone and isolated except for going to ABCD. I could see the need and wanted to help.” 

Annie said that she was stunned to be selected as an ABCD Hero.”I was really surprised and honored to receive this award. Thank you so much.”