LAWRENCE — Lawrence CommunityWorks and eight community partners have received a $5 million grant by the Atrius Health Equity Foundation to expand youth-led community health solutions in Lawrence that seek to ensure all residents have the opportunity to thrive.
Lawrence is one of eight Massachusetts cities selected to receive funding.
LCW worked closely with community partners Lawrence General Hospital, Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Youth Development Organization, ACT Lawrence, SquashBusters Lawrence, Groundwork Lawrence, Elevated Thought, Top Notch Scholars, and the Boston College School of Social Work as well as a design team of local youth and parents to create the winning initiative.
The Lawrence project will focus on the vital need for mental health and wellness, social connection, health career pathways, and healthy neighborhoods for Lawrence families.
This partnership will give rise to a “youth hub” in Lawrence’s historic North Canal Mill District, which has burgeoned into a new neighborhood in the city over the past decade.
The award is part of the Youth as Health Care Change Agents grant program, a new initiative that funds community organizations in Eastern Massachusetts to support youth in their full potential as health educators, health navigators, future health care professionals, and community health advocates.
“This partnership draws on 15 years of work together that have built a strong culture of collaboration, trust, and joint progress towards common goals,” said LCW Executive Director Jessica Andors.
Greenbelt names new president
ESSEX — The Essex County Greenbelt Association has named Chris LaPointe of Hamilton as its next President, effective Sept 1.
LaPointe is currently vice president of Greenbelt’s Conservation Operations and has extensive experience overseeing large, complex land conservation initiatives across the region. He succeeds Kate Bowditch, Greenbelt’s president for the past six years, who is retiring.
“Chris is an accomplished and highly respected leader in the field of land conservation who has worked tirelessly at Greenbelt to protect natural habitats, working farms, and scenic landscapes across the region over the past decade,” said Betsy Shields, Greenbelt Board Chair.
“His passion and enthusiasm for conservation, deep understanding of the region’s natural resources, and dedication to teamwork ensure that Greenbelt is in excellent hands as we plan for the future.”
Since joining Greenbelt in 2015 as Director of Conservation, LaPointe has helped protect more than 6,200 acres of land, representing 86% of all land conserved in Essex County during this period.
His focus on farmland conservation, and ensuring that Essex County agriculture always remains viable, has also helped Greenbelt develop one of the region’s most innovative farm conservation programs.
“Thanks to strong leadership over the years, the organization is well-positioned to continue fulfilling its mission to protect vital land and natural resources across the region, enhancing the quality of life for everyone living in Essex County,” said LaPointe.
Prior to joining Greenbelt, LaPointe worked at The Trust for Public Land for more than a decade overseeing conservation projects across Massachusetts.
Energy conference a success
ANDOVER — The Merrimack Valley Chamber hosted its annual Energy Conference on July 18 at Schneider Electric’s R&D facility in Andover. About 50 people attended the event.
Massachusetts Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Rebecca Tepper was keynote speaker and answered questions from members.
An expert speaker panel included TJ Caveney of NRGTRee; Joe DiPietro of Revise Energy; Nate Finch of Eversource; moderator Joe Bevilacqua, MVCC; Secretary Tepper and Alan Reid of Schneider Electric.
State Rep luncheon sells out
LAWRENCE — The annual State Representatives luncheon hosted by the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce on July 23 at Salvatore’s at the Riverwalk was a sold-out event.
Guest speakers included State Reps Ryan Hamilton; Tram Nguyen; Francisco Paulino; Estela Reyes; Adrianne Ramos; Dawne Shand and Andy Vargas.
Keynote speaker was Rep. Aaron Michlewitz, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. A number of issues were discussed, including the state’s economy, taxes, education, housing and infrastructure.
Networking at Noon
NORTH ANDOVER — The Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold a Networking at Noon luncheon from noon to 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13, at the China Blossom Restaurant, 946 Osgood St.
Cost is $29 for members and $39 for future members and includes a luncheon buffet, soft drinks and a cash bar.
To register or for more information, visit merrimackvalleychamber.com or call 978-686-0900.
Architectural firm promotion
ANDOVER — SMRT Architects & Engineers announces the promotion of Associate Principal Melissa Flynn to leader of its Andover office.
Flynn has over 17 years of design experience as a civil engineer, with a distinguished track record in managing projects from initial design to permitting and construction administration. Her adept problem-solving skills will be essential in her new leadership role, company officials said.
Flynn will oversee office operations, administrative functions, and key business development opportunities as office leader. She will also ensure the implementation of firm and office goals while fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
Flynn’s portfolio includes projects for clients such as Edgewood LifeCare, Raytheon Technologies, St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, CT, Massachusetts Army National Guard, and Dept. of Administrative Services (Division of Public Works, Design & Construction).
Her active involvement in the Boston/New England Urban Land Institute underscores her commitment to shaping the future of our communities’ built environment.
“We are thrilled to appoint Melissa as the head of our Andover office, where her leadership will drive innovation and strengthen our regional presence,” said SMRT President Brad Hodges.
Visit online at smrtinc.com.
Networking Mixer
ANDOVER — The Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold a Next Generation Leaders Networking Mixer from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 12, in the outdoor courtyard at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 123 Old River Road.
Cost is $10 for members and $20 for future members and includes food and a cash bar.
To register or for more information, visit merrimackvalleychamber.com or call 978-686-0900.
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