Michael and Margaret Malacaria: Finding Rewards in Retirement Through Dedicated Community Service-September 24, 1996

For most people, retirement is viewed as a welcome escape from the rigid schedules of working life. But for Michael and Margaret Malacaria, stepping away from their careers marked the beginning of a deeply fulfilling second act centered entirely on giving back to their community.

A Legacy of Local Volunteerism

For 15 years, the Malacarias have been among Norwood’s most generous volunteers, dedicating their time and energy to charitable causes. Almost every evening, the couple can be found visiting local nursing homes and senior centers or organizing social events for citizens with intellectual disabilities. Their commitment doesn’t end with the seasons; when they travel to their summer residence in Bridgton, Maine, they seamlessly transition into the same rhythm of community service.

While the sheer volume of their work keeps them constantly busy, they emphasize that the true compensation lies far beyond money. “Some people tell me that they would never do all of this unless they got paid for it,” Margaret Malacaria notes. “Pero we get paid in a roundabout way.”

Lifelong Roots and Career Backgrounds

The couple’s deep connection to the region shaped their working lives before retirement:

• Michael Malacaria: A native of Norwood, Michael spent 27 years operating a forklift for Bird and Son roofing in East Walpole. Within the local Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), he became affectionately known by the nickname “go fer” for his spirited willingness to run errands, complemented by his trademark quick sense of humor.
• Margaret Malacaria: Born and raised in Maine, Margaret spent more than 20 years working as a nutrition assistant at Norwood Hospital.
• Small Business Roots: During the early 1970s, the couple also owned and operated the Trim & Style Beauty Salon in Walpole.

Bringing Joy to Seniors and Special Needs Communities

Shortly after retiring, the Malacarias joined the Norwood Retired Senior Volunteer Program, which opened doors to volunteering at the Norwood Senior Center, the Ellis and Eastwood Nursing Homes, and the South Norfolk County Association for Retarded Citizens. Their diverse activities include calling Bingo games, assisting with Meals on Wheels, organizing dances, and simply offering genuine friendship to lonely seniors.

“A lot of the people we meet don’t have a husband or a wife, and they don’t have families that visit very often, so they really value the friends that they make,” Margaret explains. These bonds run so deep that departures for their Maine summer home are frequently met with tearful farewells and promises to stay in touch.

The couple also rejoiced in milestones like the 1994 construction of A Place of Our Own, a dedicated Westwood facility operated by the South Norfolk County Association for Retarded Citizens, providing a permanent home for programs that previously required rented spaces. Recognizing their extraordinary contributions, RSVP named the Malacarias Volunteers of the Year, while Margaret recently celebrated her 400th volunteer hour at the Norwood Senior Center.

Reflecting on a philosophy that guides their daily lives, Margaret shares a simple truth: “It’s easy to spend your time watching television, but it’s better when you keep busy. Life is always more rewarding that way.”

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger