LOWELL — On Oct. 23, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation hosted its annual event that focused on “Aging Well and Creating a Legacy” at UTEC. More than 100 community members gathered to celebrate philanthropic achievements and recognize significant contributors who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Greater Lowell area.
GLCF President and CEO Jay Linnehan led the event, honoring this year’s award and grant recipients for their outstanding dedication to community service and philanthropy in Greater Lowell.
“At the Foundation, we believe aging well involves contributing meaningfully to the lives of others and leaving behind a legacy of impact — a life well lived,” Linnehan said.
The 2024 honorees and award recipients are as follows:
• Business Philanthropy Partner Award: Red Hat, of Westford, was honored for its impactful contributions to community programs, highlighting its dedication to social responsibility and community engagement.
• Bankers’ Volunteer Award for Lifetime Achievement: Jack Moynihan, of Lowell, received this award for his lifelong dedication to volunteering, exemplifying a spirit of selflessness and commitment to local causes.
• Steven Joncas Community Connector Award: Sopheap Theam, of Chelmsford, was recognized for her role as a vital community connector, bringing together diverse groups and fostering collaborative relationships within the community through her work with the Southeast Asian Water Festival.
The 2024 Celebrate Giving grant recipients include:
• GLCF Newell Flather Legacy Fund Grant: UMass Lowell for Bridges to Success: Empowering Underrepresented Students from Lowell received a grant to further its efforts in promoting equity and providing support and resources.
• Celebrate Giving Grant: Friends of the Lowell Council on Aging Center was awarded a grant for its Programs in Creativity for Older Adults Project, which focuses on engaging seniors in creative activities, fostering social connection, and promoting overall well-being.
The awards were followed by a conversation with Katharine Esty, of Concord, a renowned social psychologist, psychotherapist, and aging activist, who shared her insights on Aging Well and Creating a Legacy. Esty’s conversation emphasized the importance of purposeful aging and left attendees inspired to have a new perspective on aging and how to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
“At GLCF, we are committed to supporting those who strive to create a lasting, positive impact,” Linnehan said. “Together, we can ensure Greater Lowell remains a community where people of all ages can flourish.”
For more information on GLCF and how you can create your own legacy through philanthropy, visit glcfoundation.org or call 978-970-1600.
