By Lyse McGilvery

Having lived in the San Lorenzo Valley for a half a century, Chris Currier of Mountain Mechanics has become a well-known face to our townspeople and is a well-known supporter of our local community. Chris says he finds that there are limitless opportunities to have a meaningful and positive impact on the community, and views “volunteering as a way to reciprocate some of the good will I’ve received from our small, diverse town. Saying that you support and care is much more meaningful if you put words into action by giving your time, energy, resources and skills.”

Chris has been doing just that as a volunteer fire fighter for the past twenty years, and a Business Association board member for ten years. He’s perhaps most recognized as the driver of the lead vehicle in the Boulder Creek Fourth of July parade — a Model T Fire Engine — accompanying the Grand Marshall, a local person of honor selected to lead the parade. Or, perhaps you’d recognize him as the brave man who helps maintain the flow of traffic and the safety of pedestrians on a busy Hwy 9 corner for the well-attended Boulder Creek Halloween Trick or Treat event. He’s also out helping during the BC Christmas festivities.

Chris continues, “My volunteering crosses all aspects of society, but my greatest satisfaction comes from helping kids participate in sports programs.” Chris has not only financially sponsored SLV soccer, baseball and other sports teams and events for boys and girls of all ages, but has also supported the cheerleaders who encourage the local teams to win their games. Chris hosts car washes in front of his business, Mountain Mechanics, to raise funds for sports programs, cheerleaders, 4-H, as well as for various disasters. One particularly successful fund-raiser earned $10,000 for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Over the years, Chris has discovered that volunteering can be as beneficial to the volunteer as it is to the recipient. He says, “Volunteering gives you the opportunity to meet new people, feel needed and valued, and increases your sense of self-confidence.” He has certainly been exemplary when it comes to giving back to one’s community and we join in thanking him for doing so much for children.