EMS dispatcher Teresa Collins, who brought the Wreaths Across America program to Marblehead, described the importance of being a woman in leadership roles. 

She said that during the pandemic, she started to figure out her priorities and that it helped her find balance and figure out what mattered most to her. This then helped her learn to balance all the roles she takes on.

Volunteering, she said, was always a priority for her and something she has always had a passion for. She explained that she was a single parent and volunteered for her son’s Boy Scouts program for 14 years.

“I got to be a leader of all the guys,” Collins said.

In addition, Collins has annually volunteered at Boston’s Wounded Vet Run for the past 13 years. She said she gets to support some of Boston’s wounded soldiers and be a part of groundbreaking work. 

“Standing in rooms surrounded by some of the world’s greatest heroes… well, you can’t match that,” Collins said. 

Collins was interested in bringing Wreaths Across America to Marblehead due to her inspiration from Patriot Guard Riders, who ride to honor fallen military veterans and first responders. She would get on a motorcycle and accompany them all the way from Maine to Massachusetts, participating in many ceremonies along the way.

She initially brought this to Marblehead around the time of the pandemic, when Wreaths Across America was stopped at Salem’s Greenlawn Cemetery due to the founders moving out of state. 

Collins knew then that she wanted to take over. And what better place to bring it to than Marblehead, her home?

A veterans officer in Salem recently reached out to Collins after watching the remarkable impact this has had on the town and asked for assistance. To no surprise, Collins agreed and will restart the honor again in Salem. 

“Giving back to your community, especially as a woman, and taking leadership roles when no one else is stepping up is so important,” Collins said. 

Collins gave some advice to young girls interested in pursuing similar careers.

“Go for it… Don’t ever be afraid,” she said. “Look inside, find your tiger, and just do it.”