A salute to volunteer service: Billy DeBlasio is honored by the town
by Sarah Barr
Staff Writer
Photos by Lisa Brisson
When you read an official proclamation there is always one “whereas” after another.
So, when Billy DeBlasio was named Newington’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year, the document read “whereas” after “whereas” after “whereas” because the longtime resident is recognized as a pillar of the community.
“To me, I grew up always wanting to volunteer. It’s been in my blood since I was 12 years old,” he said of sweeping the floors at the Berlin Fire Department. “It’s all about helping neighbors and other friends and just doing good for the community. It’s rewarding.”
DeBlasio “did a lot of good” in his 20 years on the town’s Parks and Recreation Board. He was honored at a recent Town Council meeting where he was presented with a proclamation for his leadership and hands-on service.
The list of accomplishments is long:
• He volunteered all four days at the annual “Life Be in it Extravaganza” doing everything from ensuring refreshments are properly maintained during the hot summer weather to serving thousands of attendees, helping to make the event a continued success.
• He volunteered countless hours and energy to other major community events including Motorcycle Madness, Newington Goes Country, Food Truck Friday and Night of Lights, always fostering good will.
• Beyond his work with Parks and Recreation, he served as a volunteer firefighter for 25 years, earning lifetime member status.
• He dedicated decades to coaching youth baseball, basketball and football, having a positive impact on a generation of young residents.
• He was always there for others in their time of need, whether it be to raise money to support families, shovel their driveways and sidewalks during snowstorms, or even mow a neighbor’s lawn.
The proclamation states that DeBlasio “embodies the very definition of public service, consistently placing the needs of the community before his own and serving as a role model for others to follow.”
High praise indeed for the newest volunteer of the year, recognizing and appreciating a tenure of extraordinary service, dedication and lasting community contributions.
But this is not his first go-round with awards. DeBlasio was interviewed by Newington LIFE six years ago when he received the 2020 Public Service Award from the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association.
At that time, he said “it’s helping anybody when they need help – a neighbor, a co-worker. My job is to be resourceful. So, I like to help people and make the world go round.”
Some things do not change over the years.
DeBlasio’s 20 years of service ended this past November. Connecting and helping people is what he enjoyed best. He decided to step away when other longtime members decided it was time to go as well.
“It was rewarding. In my 20-year term, so much was done,” he recalled.
“Improved the fields and playgrounds and parks. The lights were big. Did things at the skatepark. It’s just about being a part of something you love. It’s easy once you’re committed and enjoy being with people. It’s not a chore. This is something I do on Tuesday nights.”
Now it is the next generation’s turn.
“Time for the next phase of people to get involved. Pick up the torch and carry it forward. Make it better than we did. We started when the Extravaganza was small. Look at it now,” he said.
As for what’s next, DeBlasio will slow down and relax and finish planting some trees. But he still works facilities for the town of Berlin and is still involved with the Berlin Fire Department, “doing everything but firefighting.” But what really excites him is perhaps another chance down the road at coaching.
“Hoping for grandkids and hoping to do the baseball, basketball thing with them,” he said, while also hoping that one of his children stays in Newington.
As he thinks of the generations to come, he wishes the young people of today would give volunteering a try.
“People should give it a shot. Do something for your community. Keep making it better. Be a part of a team, it’s rewarding,” he said. NL
For more information on Newington Parks and Recreation go to newingtonct.gov/2429/Parks-Recreation and newingtonct.gov/1497/Boards-Committees.