Paul Dumais

Plymouth, MA

For helping thousands of low-income taxpayers increase financial stability and maximize hard-earned income with kindness, patience, and technical expertise over 17 years of dedicated service to South Shore Community Action Council’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

Paul first began preparing taxes in 2009 at South Shore Community Action Council’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, bringing with him not only a strong knowledge base but also a deep sense of service to others. South Shore Community Action Council was fortunate that Paul answered an outreach ad in a Plymouth newspaper and joined our program in just its second year. Since then, Paul has served as an invaluable part of the team.

Known for his patience, kindness, and expertise, Paul consistently takes the time to ensure taxpayers fully understand their returns and the process behind them — something especially meaningful for individuals who may feel overwhelmed or unfamiliar with tax preparation. As a veteran himself, Paul pursued additional certification IRS training to allow him to prepare specialized tax returns for fellow veterans and military service members. His thoughtful conversations with fellow veterans and military families have also left a lasting impact on many who came through our doors.

Paul is the person fellow volunteer tax preparers turn to for guidance when faced with complex tax questions or unclear situations. His careful attention to detail, analytical approach, and commitment to finding every eligible credit and opportunity for taxpayers exemplify his dedication to helping others.

Through his generosity, knowledge, and years of volunteer service, Paul has made a tremendous difference in the lives of countless individuals and families in our community. We are honored to recognize him as one of this year’s Local Heroes.

Goodwill Hunters

Marshfield, MA

In recognition of the extraordinary resilience and unparalleled civic grace at the heart of Goodwill Hunters - Gail and Jeremy Hunter, their family, and friends - to transform private grief into a legacy of hope and impact for non-profits and grassroots community projects across the South Shore.

Following the tragic losses of their daughter, Anjuli, in a car accident in 2006, and son, Drew, while kayaking in 2009, Gail and Jeremy Hunter - along with a tight-knit community of family, friends, and co-workers - sought a way to ensure Anjuli and Drew’s vibrant, giving spirits would never be forgotten. Together, they chose a path forward of extraordinary grace and resilience, founding Goodwill Hunters in 2017, a completely volunteer-led organization dedicated to “hunting for goodwill” and stepping up precisely where neighbors need it most.

Through their beloved annual Duck Derby, Goodwill Hunters raises funds to financially support local non-profits and community initiatives working to make a difference across the South Shore. The organization was one of the earliest champions of the Marshfield Food Pantry, specifically establishing funds to provide nutritional snacks to local students navigating homelessness or housing insecurity. Their wide-reaching impact includes support of local environmental and recreational spaces, backing the Boys and Girls Club of Marshfield, and partnering with regional healing spaces like Alice’s House to provide a sanctuary for people navigating grief, trauma, and crises. Goodwill Hunters has transformed private grief into public blessing and a legacy of hope, grace, action, and compassion that has forever strengthened the fabric of community on the South Shore.

Stevie Keith

Plymouth, MA
5 Gallon Bucket Foundation

In recognition of Stevie Keith's extraordinary commitment to serving the Plymouth community, his leadership in combating food insecurity, and his unwavering dedication to helping neighbors in need.

Stevie Keith exemplifies the spirit of community service and leadership. A lifelong Plymouth resident, former U.S. Army Captain, husband, father, and local business owner, Stevie has dedicated his time and energy to strengthening the community he calls home. In 2024, Stevie launched the 5 Gallon Challenge, an initiative that challenged residents, businesses, schools, and organizations to fill 5-gallon buckets with food and essential supplies for local families facing food insecurity. What began as a grassroots effort quickly grew into a community-wide movement, collecting more than 9,000 pounds of donations in its inaugural year, over 16,000 pounds in its second year, and demonstrating the power of neighbors helping neighbors. Through his leadership of the 5 Gallon Challenge Foundation, he has mobilized residents, businesses, and organizations to address food insecurity, helping collect and distribute food, diapers, personal care items, and other essential supplies to local families in need. His commitment to service - both in uniform and in his hometown - has inspired others to get involved, give back, and make a difference.

Dan Shannon

Hyannis Resident
Former SSCAC Board President

For providing visionary leadership, knowledgeable guidance, and sound governance to South Shore Community Action Council for nearly 30 years, advancing its mission and making a powerful difference in the quality of life for thousands of disadvantaged children, seniors, and families.

For nearly three decades, Dan Shannon has been a cornerstone of the South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC) and its mission to combat poverty on the South Shore. Dan first joined the SSCAC’s Board of Directors 28 years ago, bringing a profound commitment to community advocacy and leadership. Recognizing his exceptional vision, the Board appointed him as President 25 years ago, a role he held with distinction, steering the organization with a steady hand through eras of profound growth, challenge, opportunity, and impact.

Beyond his incredible tenure with SSCAC, Dan is a highly respected figure across the Commonwealth's public service and advocacy sectors. He previously served as the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC), where he spent years championing systemic change, policy improvements, and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Dan’s unique blend of state-level leadership and steadfast local loyalty has shaped SSCAC's strategic direction and left an indelible mark on our community. We are profoundly grateful for his 28 years of steadfast service, his 25 years of presidential leadership, and his enduring passion for creating a more equitable and inclusive world.