Spezio’s volunteerism noted by town

It’s been four years since Tony Spezio has had a child in Valley Stream schools. But to him, that doesn’t make a difference.

To the Town of Hempstead, it does, and that’s why he was selected as one of the recipients for its 18th annual Make a Difference Awards, which were presented on April 8 at Town Hall. Spezio has been volunteering at Memorial Junior High School for the past decade, and was nominated by Principal Anthony Mignella.

“Tony’s been such a stable anchor here at Memorial and in the community,” Mignella said. “I felt he really deserved that honor and recognition.”

Spezio volunteers four days a week, six to seven hours a day, at the Memorial Junior High School store, where students can get snacks, drinks and even school apparel. He is president of the Valley Stream Teacher’s Center, a member of the Interdistrict Wellness Committee, a board member of the Valley Stream Youth Council and past president of the Central/Memorial PTSA.

The Teacher’s Center, which is funded by the state, offers free training opportunities for faculty in Valley Stream’s four school districts. It also provides laminating and poster services for teachers and the community.

With the Wellness Committee, Spezio has been working to make available locked medicine cabinets boxes for Valley Stream residents at a low cost. The purpose of these boxes is so parents can lock up their prescription drugs.

Spezio also attends Memorial’s Saturday coffee talks for parents, and cooks for the annual drama production. He said that none of his volunteer efforts would be possible without the support of his wife, Jane.

Retired after a 33-year career with AT&T, Spezio has the time to devote to the schools. Even though his son, Anthony, graduated from Central in 2010, it hasn’t stopped Spezio’s desire to give back.

He has a simple reason for why he volunteers: luck. “I’ve staved death four times in my life,” he said, noting that he has beat cancer twice. “I feel that there is a purpose for me to be here and I’m going to do something about it and make the place better for other people.”