Mei Shei of Lexington was honored recently by Minutemen Senior Services at its annual Volunteer Recognition Event for more than two decades of volunteer service with seniors. In conjunction with that recognition, on July 15, 2025, Representative Michelle Ciccolo issued Mei Shei a citation at the Lexington Community Center.
Mei Shei began her community service journey shortly after retiring from being a biology researcher. Noticing the vulnerable community of seniors around her, Mei contacted Burlington-based Minuteman Senior Services and volunteered to help aging Lexington residents, assisting them with grocery shopping and sometimes simply providing companionship. Shortly thereafter, Mei also began volunteering as a tax aide, helping seniors file taxes and pay bills. In 2011, Mei additionally volunteered with SHINE, a program within Minuteman Senior Services that provides free health insurance counseling.
Upon receiving the citation, Mei said: “I was surprised. I [didn’t] expect this… that’s my pleasure, to do volunteer work. I don’t expect any award.”
Rep. Ciccolo had a few words to honor Mei Shei’s contributions.
“I am thrilled to see Mei Shei honored by Minuteman Senior Services. Too often the vital work of local volunteers does not get the recognition it deserves. Mei Shei and her amazing work supporting Lexington seniors in accessing their health insurance benefits and processing their taxes is a good example of the critical role our volunteers play in our community. In the case of Mei Shei, I first became aware of her work when the late, great Pat Costello contacted me suggesting that Mei Shei ought to be nominated for an award. Pat herself was a consummate volunteer, beloved in the community, and she clearly saw how hard Mei Shei worked on behalf of others. That recommendation alone was enough to elevate Mei Shei in my eyes. I am grateful to her for all she has done to help our seniors.”
Mei Shei’s citation award comes during a historic year for the town of Lexington, site of the first battle of the American Revolution. In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, the city has created an initiative, VO250, encouraging residents to volunteer and help reach a community-wide goal of 250,000 hours. To learn more about this initiative, go to lex250.org/who-we-are/.
Congratulations Mei Shei for receiving a well deserved recognition and award given by Minutemen Senior Services at their annual Volunteer Recognition Event. for your more than two decades of volunteer service with seniors. In conjunction with that recognition, on July 15, 2025, Representative Michelle Ciccolo issued Mei Shei a citation at the Lexington Community Center is also very proud worthy for all of us
You have created wonderful journey to help seniors in their needs so thank you and best wishes
Congratulations Mei Shei for this outstanding honor, you’ve made a difference to countless people in Lexington through your many years of dedicated volunteer service. Minuteman Senior Services is grateful for people like you who give their time so generously.