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| June 24, 2010 |
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| Mary Binda Memorial Harbor Cruise |
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| By PAttie McCormick |
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Mary Binda was an incredible friend to the South Boston Boys & Girls Club. Starting as a parent of “club” members, Mary volunteered whenever needed. When “her boys” were grown Mary continued her involvement as an advisory board member for over 30 years. The best of board members attend monthly meetings and organize fundraising events but Mary did so much more!! Her weekly, sometimes daily visits, resulted in building relationships with staff and members alike – helping them overcome obstacles, supporting them in their mission and being there to lend a helping hand in any way she could.
Her most obvious accomplishment was working with the various agencies in the City of Boston to install a street light at the top of Dorchester and West Sixth Street – assuring that club kids crossing the street would be safe – we affectionately call it the “Mary Binda Street Light”. It was not an easy task and took several years but anyone that knew Mary, knew that she did not give up easily…especially if it were for someone else.
The accomplishments that were not as obvious, but she was most proud of were with the members…getting to know them, encouraging them to be their best and supporting them when they needed it. When she’d walk through the club doors, she’d always get the same reception…”hi Mrs. B or Hi Ma”. And when you walked the streets with her you couldn’t go several feel without her bumping into someone that she had helped along the way. She would have to stop to ask how they were doing. She was truly special and I was so lucky to have her as a friend.
So while we miss her greatly, we will celebrate her memory in a few weeks as we board the Mary Binda Memorial Harbor Cruise. Mary never missed the cruise. Every year she gathered her friends and family to join her to support the club and of course have a good time. Mary loved a good time. She loved life and she lived it like no other. So join us on the evening of Thursday, July 22nd, as we remember our dear friend Mary ~ we know she’ll be there in spirit!
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