Hartford HealthCare St. Vincent’s Medical Center has named Trumbull resident Mary Grilley as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
Grilley joined St. Vincent's Medical Center’s Volunteer Services in 2020. Since then she has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to community service.
“What truly sets Mary apart is her compassionate approach to volunteerism,” said Hartford HealthCare Fairfield Region President Bill Jennings. “She embodies a genuine spirit of service, from patient advocacy to food distribution, that demonstrate her versatility and deep commitment to making a meaningful difference.”
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Mary lives in Trumbull with her husband Bob and is a member of St. Theresa’s parish. They have three children and two grandchildren.
As chairperson of the hospital's Patient and Family Advisory Committee, she has been instrumental in bridging patient experiences with healthcare delivery. Her leadership extends to critical community programs, including the annual Swim Across the Sound Marathon and Hartford HealthCare Medical Mission, showcasing her dedication to supporting local healthcare initiatives.
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Mary's most notable contribution is her unwavering commitment to the St. Vincent's Medical Center Mobile Food Distribution program in partnership with Connecticut Foodshare. Every other Friday, without fail, she volunteers at the food distribution event, regardless of weather conditions - snow, rain, sleet, hail or blazing sun. Her consistent presence ensures that local families receive free, fresh and nutritious foods, providing not just sustenance but also hope and dignity for those in need.
Mary also volunteers with the Red Cross and the Binky Patrol, a group that provides blankets and scarves to critically traumatized children, and sometimes adults. It was started after the Sandy Hook Elementary school shooting in 2012.
The 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes Mary Grilley's exceptional service, her tireless dedication, and her profound impact on both St. Vincent's Medical Center and the broader community.
Learn more about Volunteer Services at St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
