Zamaris Geleszinski’s initial encounter with Ohio Valley Voices was a classic case of love at first sight. “Ten years ago my boss invited me to the OVV Annual Gala and I immediately fell in love with the organization,” she recalls.
Zamaris, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico, earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNY Oswego and a master’s degree in finance from the University of Puerto Rico. She spent the first twenty years of her career working as an accountant before switching gears and becoming a retail commercial agent. Although she is blessed to say that her twin children, David and Florence, were born typically hearing, Zamaris was so moved by the Annual Gala that she decided to get involved and support OVV’s mission.
Zamaris began her involvement with OVV by volunteering for the Fashion Show committee before eventually joining the Board of Trustees. Despite having no direct familial connection to the organization, her level of dedication during her years of service was exceptional and her impact extensive.
Through it all, Zamaris was motivated by one simple fact: being involved with OVV meant spreading hope to children and families who needed it. She explains: “Ohio Valley Voices gives hope to families that their kids can have a productive, meaningful life and achieve whatever they want.”
Zamaris’ favorite OVV memories are of the annual holiday concerts, where the children of OVV show off their remarkable progress through singing and storytelling. She is convinced that no one can sit through one of these heartwarming performances without smiling.
Even after stepping away from the Board of Trustees, Zamaris remains deeply passionate about OVV and its life-changing work. She believes that the need to spread hope will never go away and encourages others to lend a hand however they can—whether it’s by giving gifts, attending events, or donating their time.
“Please take a minute to see how OVV transforms the lives of the children and their families and then get involved,” she says. “You can make a difference.”