Story #87: Carol Losos and the Power of Art Using Glass
Jump into Carol Losos’s journey from tutoring in Cambridge’s housing projects to uplifting the transformative power of glass art in diverse communities.
Story #86: Mira Sorvino, Chinatown After-School Alum, Performer, and Humanitarian Advocate
Uncover the journey of Mira Sorvino, a Chinatown After-School alum, as she developed a celebrated acting career and a passionate commitment to humanitarian advocacy.
Story #85: Jen Mergel, Advocate for Art and Culture, and Her Lifelong Friendship with BRYE Student
Learn about how Jen Mergel sustained an enduring friendship with her BRYE student’s family and how she uplifts inclusivity through Art.
Story #84: Kenneth Roemer and How PBHA Inspired His Research and Literature on Native Americans
Check out how Kenneth Roemer volunteer opportunity in New Mexico through PBHA reinforced his dedication to Native American communities and his literature.
Story #83: Susan Lieu, Mission Hill Alum, Highlights Identity in Her Literature, Shows, and Podcasts
Explore how Susan Lieu found a home at PBHA and how she went on to share her experiences through art, inspiring many with her powerful story and artistic vision.
Story #82: José Olivarez, Keylatch and SLAM Alum, Integrates Service into his Art
Check out José Olizarez’s history with PBHA and how he continues to advocate for others through his literature.
Story #81: Natalie Portman, Former Elderly 1-2-1 Director, Inspires Generations Through the Screen
Discover how Natalie Portman, a renowned actress, served Greater Boston through PBHA’s Elderly 1-2-1.
Stories from: Government & Civic Advocacy
PBHA alumni frequently pursue careers dedicated to advocating for their communities, stepping into influential roles such as mayors, governors, congressional staff, and elected representatives. These trailblazers not only champion the values and beliefs that uplift their neighborhoods but also break barriers in the political landscape, serving as powerful examples of leadership and resilience. Their commitment to public service inspires others to engage in government and advocacy, fostering a culture of civic responsibility and activism. We take pride in the legacy of these alumni, who exemplify the impact that passionate individuals can have on society.
Stories #77-80: Michael, Morgan, and Minna, PBHA Alums in Government Law
Read about how PBHA alumni like Michael Thakur, Morgan Bradylyons, and Minna Elias have transformed their commitment to service into impactful careers in the legal field, shaping communities and advocating for social justice along the way.
Story #76: Byron Rushing, PBHA’s 2018 Outstanding Alumnus and Former MA House Representative
Dive into how Byron Rushing made an impact on both PBHA and Massachusetts through his dedication to serving others.
Story #75: Ken Reeves, PBHA Alum and First Open LGBTQ African American Mayor
Take a look at how long-time PBHA supporter Ken Reeves made a difference in Cambridge through not just policy, but identity.
Story #74: Frank Duehay, Longtime PBHA Supporter, Cambridge Mayor, and His Beloved Memory
Read about Frank Duehay, a beloved figure in Cambridge whose lifelong dedication to public service and mentorship at PBHA left an everlasting mark on his community.
Story #73: Franklin Delano Roosevelt, PBHA Alum, Becomes 32nd POTUS
Explore how FDR, a PBHA volunteer during its first years, made his mark on the country through various roles in government, including President.
Story #72: Maura Healey, CHANCE Alum, Becomes Governor of Massachusetts
Learn how Massachusetts' Attorney General and first openly LGBTQ+ governor was once a participant in the CHANCE program.
Story #71: Robert Julien Grows from PBHA Leadership Into Congressional Leadership
Jump into how Robert C. Julien’s passions for public service led him from PBHA into advocacy and government.
Story #70: Michelle Wu Brings Her Chinatown Citizenship Experience into Mayorship
Dive into how Michelle Wu’s experience with PBHA’s Chinatown Citizenship reinforced her love for Greater Boston.
Story #69: Andy Zucker Passionately Intersects STEM Education and Social Justice Through Advocacy
Learn about how Dr. Andrew Zucker’s experiences at PBHA, particularly with the Roosevelt Towers program, shaped his decision to work with the U.S. Dept. of Education and lifelong dedication to nonprofit work and social justice.
Story #68: Julia Gordon on PBHA Deepening Her Sense of Empathy and Pursuing Housing Equity
Explore Julia Gordon's journey from PBHA to her role as Assistant Secretary for Housing at HUD, where her commitment to public interest work continues to shape policies in housing equity and community support.
Story #67: Simon Thompson Translates His HSHS Experiences to Civic Advocacy
Jump into Simon's journey from PBHA to a career dedicated to addressing critical public policy issues and creating opportunities for future generations.
Stories from: Historical Events
Over the past 120 years, PBHA has intersected with history in countless ways. This series of stories highlights key moments when PBHA received recognition from influential historical figures or adapted in response to significant events. Each narrative not only showcases the organization’s achievements but also illustrates its resilience and commitment to social justice. From the early days of addressing local needs to its involvement in national movements, PBHA has transformed in terms of demographics, programming, and purpose. These evolutions are not just reflections of the organization itself, but also responses to the ever-changing landscape of the world around it, revealing how PBHA has continually sought to align its mission with the pressing issues of each era.
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Submit this form to be processed by the PBHA team to share your story. Submission of this form does not guarantee that your story will be published, we ask for your patience as we sort through submissions. For any comments, questions, or concerns please email 120Stories@pbha.org. Thank you for your collaboration, and Happy 120 Years of Doing Good Well!