Needham Walker Org. Announces Community Leadership Award

NEEDHAM, MA — On May 2nd, the Walker organization will present the 2020 Distinguished Community Leadership Award at the non-profit’s Lives in Bloom Gala to benefit children and families served by Walker’s educational, therapeutic and community-based programs. This award is given annually to recipients who have demonstrated a commitment to transforming the lives of children and families. This year, Walker will honor Maureen O. Kelly, EdD, of Scituate for her outstanding dedication and commitment to Walker’s mission.

A former member of Walker’s Board of Directors, Maureen Kelly has been involved with the agency through volunteerism, support and advocacy. She was a member of the board from 2009 to 2018, serving as vice chair of the board, as well as chair and co-chair of the board’s governance committee. In addition to her dedicated leadership, Maureen used her experience and expertise to enhance therapeutic art education in Walker’s programs. Massachusetts College of Art and Design recently honored Maureen with the designation of Professor Emeritus, given her three decades of distinguished service to the college as a faculty member and administrator.

“I am pleased to announce our Distinguished Community Leadership Award will be presented to Maureen Kelly at this year’s Gala,” said Gene Takahashi, Walker’s President and CEO. “Maureen has been a tremendous ambassador for Walker’s mission. Her many years of leadership on behalf of Walker helped shape our services and furthered our goal to help children and families reach their greatest potential.”

Walker provides an array of educational, therapeutic, clinical and community-based services for children and families facing significant mental health, emotional and learning challenges. Founded in 1961, Walker’s programs positively impact thousands of children and families from more than 150 communities in Massachusetts each year.

Taking place during National Mental Health Awareness Month, Walker’s 20th Annual Lives in Bloom Gala will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2020 at the Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel. This event benefits the children and families served by Walker. Individual tickets start at $250. For more information, please visit www.WalkerCares.org/LivesinBloom.