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Mercede Traces Devotion To Stamford Back To Family

STAMFORD, Conn. -- When you think of someone who truly loves their hometown, the name Frank J. Mercede tops the list.  A Stamford native, Mercede's devotion to the city is worthy of recognition.

Frank Mercede has served on a variety of boards in Stamford.

Frank Mercede has served on a variety of boards in Stamford.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede attended the Twin Meadows wine tasting.

Frank Mercede attended the Twin Meadows wine tasting.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede, right, is honored by the Stamford Center for the Performing Arts.

Frank Mercede, right, is honored by the Stamford Center for the Performing Arts.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede was one of the winners in the American Society Battle of the Chefs.

Frank Mercede was one of the winners in the American Society Battle of the Chefs.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede also performed in Dancing With the Stars for Curtain Call Theatre.

Frank Mercede also performed in Dancing With the Stars for Curtain Call Theatre.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede got a proclamation from state.

Frank Mercede got a proclamation from state.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede took part in the Twin Meadows playground dedication.

Frank Mercede took part in the Twin Meadows playground dedication.

Photo Credit: Contributed
Frank Mercede is sworn into office in Stamford.

Frank Mercede is sworn into office in Stamford.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Frank Sr and his father, Nicholas, Frank joined Frank Mercede & Sons in 1972 and in 1992 he was promoted to President and CEO. Like his predecessors, his desire to give back is evident.

“It's hereditary, as my grandfather and father contributed both money and their time getting involved with their community to make sure that it continues to be a thriving place to live,” Mercede said.

Mercede has been involved with various organizations. He  is a former Board of Director of Amity Bank, friends of ARI, The Stamford Boys and Girls Club and Patriot National Bank. He was also on the Stamford Police Commission and a Trustee on the Stamford Police Pension Fund.

He is currently a member of the Board of Directors for the Italian Center of Stamford, The Mill River Collaborative, Twin Meadows Playground, Abilis, Advisory Board of Trinity Catholic High School, his alma mater, (Stamford Catholic High School) and the Stamford Downtown Special Services District (DSSD), He is also Vice-President of Facilities and on the Executive Board of the Stamford Center for the Performing Arts.

He was appointed Chairman by Mayor David Martin to head the new “Access 4 All” Committee for the City of Stamford which will help create guidelines and identify issues within the city relating to the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). He has been a Cabinet Member of the American Cancer Society’s Regional Center since 2007.

In September, 2012, the New England Division of the American Cancer Society awarded Mercede its most honored accolade, The Sandra C. Labaree Volunteer Values Award, which recognizes and honors those whose actions and service in the fight against cancer most exemplify the American Cancer Society's organizational values: Mission, Data-Driven, Diversity, Respect and Stewardship.

Frank and his wife, Lori (Serock) Mercede, are generous, giving people and their service to the Stamford community goes beyond what is mentioned here. In November of 2002, Frank and Lori received the “Community Service Award” in recognition of the giving spirit and for their gift to their family and community by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Mercede’s favorite project so far is the Twin Meadows Playground, which is named in honor of their two daughters, Nicola and Jaclyn, who has cerebral palsy. This Boundless playground allows children of all abilities to play together. Its guidelines require that at least 70 percent of the equipment must be accessible by all children, with or without disabilities. They raised $850,000 to build the 25,000 square foot park.  

At that time, Frank and Lori didn’t realize how many handicapped children would never go out because it was too hard for parents, especially when their children were not able to play in a traditional playground.

“In our case, with twins, we wanted them to have the opportunity to play together,’’ Mercede said. “Even though it was my favorite project, it took four years of hard work to design, fundraise and build and if I had to do it all over again, I would.”

In March 2011, Frank received the Arts Ovation Award from the Stamford Center for the Arts (SCA) for his commitment to his community and his family. Mercede’s involvement with SCA has really made a difference.

He is looking forward to the Gala on May 2, 2015 at the Palace featuring Jay Leno. “What makes it further special is that Lori is the Chairperson for the event,'' Mercede said.

Mercede recently donated a large amount of office space for Backyard Humanitarian’s 5th Annual Coat Drive as “Coat Drive Headquarters.”  His generosity is truly inspirational and appreciated.

Robyn Blosio Bova is a Stamford native and a Realtor for Higgins Group.

 

 

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