John B. Hynes III Honored at Labouré Center 40th annual Spring Reception

Catholic Charities Boston’s Labouré Center celebrated its 40th Spring Reception on April 25, a longstanding tradition in the South Boston community which raises money for the Labouré Center’s vital programs. John B. Hynes III, CEO and Managing Partner of Boston Global Investors, was named the 2024 Jack Shaughnessy Service Award honoree for his support and advocacy of the Center.

The reception took place at the Exchange in Boston’s seaport, drawing approximately 250 donors, volunteers, staff members, and partners in the community.

In her opening remarks, President and CEO Kelley Tuthill spoke to the impact the Labouré Center has had over the past forty years, from providing affordable childcare and adult education, to helping refugees and immigrants, and connecting those most in need with mental health and support services.

Behind the scenes, driving the Labouré Center’s mission for many years, has been Outreach Social Worker and former Labouré Director, Sister Maryadele Robinson, who will be retiring this summer after 36 years of service.

“As one Labouré client put it, “Sister Maryadele is the embodiment of hope’,” said Kelley, adding that both Sr. Maryadele and John Hynes have helped countless individuals and families impacted by substance abuse find hope.

“Thank you, John, for your steadfast support of Labouré and for all you have done for our great city,” Kelley added.

Established in memory of the late well-known Catholic philanthropist, the Jack Shaughnessy Service award is awarded annually to an individual or group who has shown exceptional dedication and service to the Labouré Center and the Boston community. Jack’s grandson Casey Shaughnessy presented the award, noting that John Hynes embodies the values of integrity, faith, philanthropy and hard work that made Jack Shaughnessy the leader he was.

“John has and continues to use his position of leadership as a platform to give back and maybe more importantly, to inspire and influence other men and women in similar positions to join in the charitable efforts, and this leadership is something that truly encapsulates The Jack Shaughnessy Service Award,” said Casey.

In his remarks, John Hynes shared a memory from early on in his career of a meeting he had with Jack Shaughnessy. After urging John to prioritize taking care of his own family, Jack asked John what his plans were for giving back–––both pieces of advice that John took to heart. During a recent visit to the Labouré Center, he was moved by the palpable sense of joy and gratitude among the staff and clients. “Everyone was smiling, from the infants and their teachers in the child care center, to the nursing students, to the staff in the hallways,” he said, before noting that the center supports many working parents, some working two jobs to make ends meet. “For those of us involved in charitable giving it is so important to recognize the difference that giving back can make in people’s lives.”

Trustee and Labouré Advisory Board Chair Matt Wells of Tremont Construction shared that the profound impact the Labouré Center has would not be possible without the incredible network of sponsors, donors, and partners who have supported the organization over the years.

“These men and women are people that have not only left a lasting impact on Labouré, but on the City of Boston as well. We are so fortunate to count these folks as our supporters, as our friends.”

To learn more about the Labouré Spring Reception, and how you can support the crucial work here.