Giving Back in Gulfport: Margo Scannell

Name: Margo Scannell

Hometown: Charlestown/Boston, MA

DOB: Jan. 29, 1942

Title: Office Manager at the Gulfport Chamber of Commerce

How long have you been volunteering?

Scannell started volunteering with the Gulfport Chamber of Commerce and the Gulfport Senior Center 12 years ago.

What encouraged/inspired you to start volunteering?

“I had retired and recently widowed, and I saw an add in The Gabber that they needed volunteers. I thought, we’ll I’ll go see what this is about, I had some free time.”

What do you like about volunteering?

“Meeting people and getting a sense of accomplishment, from what you try to help with. I could never do this by myself. We have probably 10 to 12 volunteers with the Chamber."

How often do you volunteer?

Scannell helps with the Chamber at least four days a week. She also volunteers at special events at the Gulfport Senior Center.

What keeps you interested in volunteering?

“Meeting new people . . . it’s always different. There’s never two days alike." Scannell says she answers a lot of questions from all over the country when people call the Chamber.

"They call the chamber for everything, ‘Where is the 200 year old oak tree? Where is the silver dragon on the house?' It’s always something, no matter how long I’ve been here."

What do you like about Gulfport?

“The sense of community and the people. The people are so giving and welcoming.”

How can the public help your organization? 

“By becoming more aware of the small businesses in Gulfport. Residents and their neighbors.”