Luminaries toast Kerry as fete honors service
Former Secretary of State John F. Kerry got major props last night as he was presented with the Charles E. Rogerson Award at the Rogerson Communities' Welcome Home gala.
The housing and health services nonprofit chose Kerry for his long history of public service and support of those in need in the States and around the world.
Held at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, the event was emceed by Lawrence O’Donnell, host of MSNBC's “The Last Word” (who grew up in Dorchester). O'Donnell led a Q&A session with Kerry as part of the evening's programming.
“We are going to chat about what there is to be optimistic about these days.” O'Donnell joked, adding, “My toughest job is going to be getting Secretary Kerry to sit down.”
Audience members included former Gov. Michael Dukakis and wife Kitty, former U.S. Sen. Paul Kirk, Victoria Reggie Kennedy, Dr. Vanessa Kerry, Mayor Marty Walsh and former Boston first lady Angela Menino.
“I want to thank the secretary personally for building a better commonwealth ... and spreading democracy all across the world,” Walsh said.
Founded in 1860 as the Home for Aged Men, the org now develops and manages affordable housing for low-income elders throughout Greater Boston and serves more than 1,700 families with housing, adult day health programs, fitness training and memory loss care and treatment.
“Right now we are experiencing an unprecedented number of seniors in this country... your support tonight helps Rogerson create more affordable housing,” O'Donnell said.