LYNN — Jen Lange, Donna Davis and Jim Carrigan were the honorees at the Lynn Housing Authority & Neighborhood Development’s (LHAND) non-alcoholic St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon.
Almost 200 people filled the community room at LHAND’s 10 Church St. headquarters for the annual event, which was emceed by State Rep. Dan Cahill and retired LHAND accountant Joe Scanlon. The guests were welcomed by LHAND Executive Director Charles Gaeta, who said the proceeds would be used to fund almost $25,000 in scholarships that the organization will award this year. Mayor Jared C. Nicholson gave the greetings of the city.
Lange was presented with the Buzzy Barton, Jimmy Lyons and Tim Muldoon “Irish” Person of the Year Award. She is a longtime advocate for women in recovery and the founder of The Loft at Stetson, a boutique thrift store designed to empower women in recovery who are looking to re-enter society. She also runs the Waffles on Wednesday program at the Mansion on Washington Street, an opportunity for women in recovery to network.
Davis, a 31-year LHAND employee, was given the Laurie Walsh Memorial Commissioner’s Service Award. She grew up in the Curwin Circle development and wanted to work for LHAND at a young age. She has held multiple roles at the agency and is currently the manager of the Wall Plaza federal housing development.
Carrigan, a Lynn attorney and former state representative, received the John Sullivan & Ralph Cronin Community Service Award, in recognition for his longtime work with many nonprofits in the city.
“We are pleased to honor these people who play such an important role in trying to make life better for those less fortunate,” Gaeta said. “This is an event that our staff takes great pride in every year and it shows. We appreciate the support of all the sponsors.”
LHAND Planning and Development Director Peggy Phelps, who later this year will retire from a full-time role but stay on in a part-time capacity, received recognition for her 27 years of service to LHAND.
Major sponsors included Jimmy Connors of McGrath Enterprises, EDIC/Lynn, Dan Gates and John Barry of Obtek Services, Armstrong Real Estate, LLC, Law Offices of James Carrigan, SalemFive, Ryan Newhall of Newhall Real Estate and Mayor Jared C. Nicholson.
