How does it feel to be nominated? Vivian Mazzoni explained, “I was so surprised, honored and wow, someone actually recognized what I’m doing and they appreciate it!” Vivian continued on, tearing up, “It feels great, being new here and still trying to get to know people and then someone saw you, it’s amazing. I mean I am tearing up.”
Vivian Mazzoni is a new Palm Coast/Flagler County resident, having only lived here around 1.5 – 2 years. She spends her time volunteering for Flagler Schools, mostly at Wadsworth, where her granddaughter attends, but also in other elementary schools, and at the bus stops. She watches children at the bus stop near her home and enjoys bringing treats for the kids, while giving her time to keep them safe while they wait for the bus.
“Growing up, every Saturday my family would always go to the church and clean. We would clean the outside and inside of the church. I’m always volunteering, actually I enjoy it.” Vivian explained. We asked her what is the reward she gets for volunteering her time; “Them saying thank you. They appreciate it, that’s my reward. It doesn’t have to be a plaque or something, just them saying, oh, thank you so much, I appreciate your help.”
“I grew up with 15 of us in my family. My parents didn’t ever complain about us or their family. My dad was a carpenter and then he became a janitor, and my mom worked at the school as a cafeteria worker. I don’t know how we made it but we did. We help each other. I tell my husband, I don’t need a big house or fancy cars.” Vivian continued. “I am trying to inspire my granddaughter, to just be nice to people. Do what you want to do, don’t just do it because somebody else is doing it. Just be positive, do what you can even if nobody sees it. Enjoy what you are doing.”
We asked how the kids inspire her, “Seeing their big smiles, that’s what I want to see in the kids, and that’s what it inspires. They inspire me by enjoying their childhood and not being a grown up so quickly. Seeing them come out of their shell and open up, just seeing them smiling and having fun.” Vivian explained that she loves seeing the kids learn to communicate with each other off of technology, and interact while having fun. She continued on explaining how she has always enjoyed talking to people and giving them a reason to smile more.
