[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S2368]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO KATHY NICHOLS
Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Kathy
Nichols of Hudson as May's Granite Stater of the Month for her
extraordinary volunteer service to people with vision impairments.
After retiring in 2021, Kathy wanted to use her time to give back to
her community. She connected with Future In Sight, a nonprofit
organization that helps visually impaired Granite Staters live
independently by providing transportation, assistive technology,
training, and other support services. Kathy quickly signed up to
volunteer, in part, to honor her late father who was blind in one eye.
Kathy has become a steadfast volunteer for the organization. She has
provided nearly 300 rides for 20 clients, volunteered more than 800
hours of her time, and driven almost 9,000 miles to help members of her
community maintain their independence and dignity. Through her service,
Kathy has not only helped Granite Staters access appointments and daily
necessities, but also reminded them that they are not alone.
Kathy has also built new friendships through her volunteering. After
she was paired with Jan Schlecht through Future In Sight, the two
developed a close friendship built over countless conversations during
rides to appointments, errands, and everyday activities. Through shared
conversions and experiences, Kathy and Jan formed a bond which reflects
the meaningful relationships that can grow through service and
community.
Kathy's volunteerism has shown the profound difference one person can
make through kindness, empathy, and commitment to others. She
exemplifies the compassion, generosity, and community spirit that make
New Hampshire such a special place to call home, which is why I am
proud to name her May's Granite Stater of the Month.
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