Charlie and Lauren Baker Honored at 41st Annual Labouré Center Spring Reception

Catholic Charities Boston’s Labouré Center celebrated its 41st annual Spring Reception on April 24, a longstanding tradition in the South Boston community which raises money for the Labouré Center’s vital programs. Former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, President of NCAA, and his wife, former First Lady Lauren Baker and founder and CEO of Wonderfund, were named the 2025 Jack Shaughnessy Service Award honorees for their longtime support and advocacy of the Labouré Center.   

The reception took place at the Exchange in Boston’s seaport, with approximately 250 guests and supporters from the community in attendance.   

In his opening remarks, Catholic Charities Boston Board member Labouré Advisory Board Chair Matt Wells of Tremont Construction spoke to the impact the Labouré Center has had over the past four decades, from providing affordable childcare and adult education, helping refugees and immigrants in need, and connecting families and parents to mental health and support services. 

Established in memory of the late well-known Catholic philanthropist, the Jack Shaughnessy Service award is presented 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 Charlie and Lauren Baker exemplify the values of integrity, faith, philanthropy and hard work that made Jack Shaughnessy the leader he was.  

“The Bakers have added immensely to the lives of so many, including clients and families here at Labouré,” Casey said. “I know Jack and Mary would be delighted to see such a deserving couple deserve this award in honor of what they set forth years ago here at Laboure.” 

Charlie and Lauren Baker applauded the Labouré Center for being a longstanding model of justice and compassion in the community as well as a vital partner to Lauren’s organization Wonderfund, which provides critical support services to children engaged with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.  

“At the Wonderfund, we try to give back whatever we can so that children feel loved and cared for and know that they matter in the world. By supporting Laboure, that is what all of you do every day,” said Lauren. “I am humbled and honored to be among you who work every day together to help people in our community have a better life.” 

Charlie Baker described the Labouré Center as a place where those most in need are welcomed with dignity and respect. 

“At the end of the day, it will not be about the people you brought down but the ones you brought up, which is what this place does every day,” he said.  

To learn more about the Labouré Spring Reception, and how you can support Catholic Charities Boston’s life-changing programs, visit ccab.org.