Empowering the Staten Island Community Through Multifaceted Volunteerism

Meet Daily Point of Light Award honoree Gina Ottrando. Read her story, and nominate an outstanding volunteer or family as a Daily Point of Light.

Gina Ottrando embodies the spirit of service in every way she can, dedicating her time and professional expertise to empower small businesses and uplift underserved or overlooked community members. As a certified mentor with SCORE Staten Island, Gina offers invaluable guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Drawing from her extensive background in business planning, management and strategic development, she helps clients refine their tools and skills to build successful ventures. In her role as co-chair of the Staten Island chapter, Gina amplifies SCORE’s reach by representing the organization at business conferences, improving its online presence and boosting its visibility through social media.

Gina’s commitment to community service doesn’t stop with SCORE. Every week, she takes on another crucial role with Meals on Wheels, delivering medically tailored meals to 10 to 12 homebound seniors. Beyond providing nourishment, Gina conducts wellness and safety checks during her visits, offering companionship and reassurance to individuals who may feel isolated. Her presence is a source of comfort and care, ensuring these seniors feel seen and supported.

Finally, for the past four years, Gina has also devoted her time to Project Hospitality, working in both its food pantry and soup kitchen. Here, she helps provide sustenance to hundreds of individuals each week, including asylum seekers, unhoused individuals and more. Gina’s service is a lifeline for many who struggle to secure basic necessities, also fostering a sense of dignity and hope for those navigating these challenging circumstances.

Gina’s efforts reflect a more holistic vision of community care – where both economic empowerment and social support are key to creating a thriving society. Her impact resonates far beyond the services she provides. Through her work, she inspires others to join in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

Tell us about your volunteer role.

Since 2019 each week, my husband and I deliver meals to those in need through Meals on Wheels.
Additionally, I assist at a local food pantry and soup kitchen with Project Hospitality. Most of my time,
however, is dedicated to being a certified mentor and co-chair of SCORE Staten Island.

Helping others—whether it’s ensuring access to basic necessities like food or providing guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs—is deeply fulfilling and aligns with my belief that we all have a role to play in
supporting our community.

What inspired you to get started with this initiative?

Feeding those who need food is fundamental; I firmly believe that no one should go hungry when we have the resources to prevent it. My involvement with SCORE, however, grew out of a desire to leverage my professional skills in a way that directly benefits my community. It was a perfect fit. In 2021, I became a certified mentor and, in 2023, stepped into the role of co-chair for the Staten Island Chapter.

What are your long-term plans or goals for the organization?

Our goal for 2025 is to expand educational workshops, focusing on supporting existing businesses.
Statistics show that while 80% of small businesses survive their first year, only 50% make it to year
five and 35% to year 10. Additionally, Staten Island’s community demographics have shifted in recent years, as seen in the diversity of new businesses. Strengthening our connection to these diverse communities and providing tailored support is a priority.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your work?

Meeting and working with entrepreneurs is incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the privilege of mentoring over 75 clients and holding more than 300 sessions to educate and guide them. In the process, I’ve learned so much as well as expanded my own professional skills. For instance, I might not have explored AI as deeply as I have if not for my volunteer work.

Tell us about future partnerships, programs or events that you are excited about.

We are fortunate to collaborate with several local organizations. One partnership I’m particularly excited about is the THRIVE EXPO series we participate in with JCC. This event, now in its fourth installment, aims to empower women. And I truly believe has made a tangible impact on our community.

Any advice for people who want to start volunteering?

Many people hesitate because they think they lack the skills or don’t know where to start. My advice is simple: find something that interests you. Opportunities are everywhere – you just have to take the first
step.

What do you want people to learn from your story?

When you give of yourself, you receive so much more in return. Volunteering has enriched my life in countless ways, and I hope to set an example for my sons and grandkids about the importance of getting involved in your community.

Do you want to make a difference in your community like Gina? Find local volunteer opportunities.