Medford Family Network Director Receives 'Community Hero' Award

MEDFORD, MA – Longtime director of the Medford Family Network Marie Cassidy was one of 20 people recently honored at the 2018 ABCD Community Heroes Celebration. Cassidy received the Community Hero Award for her work with children and families.

"Marie Cassidy has been running the Medford Family Network for 25 years. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for children and families," ABCD said in a statement. "Marie specializes in organizing community collaborative efforts and creating programs that provide leadership opportunities for parent, to help families connect with resources, and thrive within their communities."

ABCD cited Cassidy's accomplishments like establishing free English classes, family summer concerts, evening and weekend play groups, workshops for teen parents and grandparents raising grandchildren and more.

"I get to see families grow, and sometimes stumble, but pick themselves up and grow again. I get to be a part of that magic And it is magic," Cassidy said. "There’s an ever changing nature and excitement that comes with bringing voices to families and parents that don’t think they have a voice. Every day I’m amazed by the strength people bring to their struggles. But with authentic and sincere support, lives can be turned around for the better."

ABCD, Boston's antipoverty community action agency, expanded to provide its services to Medford, Malden and Everett in 2015. Last year it served nearly 108,000 people "seeking compassion during crisis and pathways to stability and prosperity," the agency said.

The event was hosted by WCVB Channel 5 Chronicle Host Shayna Seymour. Tony and Grammy Award-winner Leslie Odom Jr., who originated the role of Aaron Burr in Hamilton was a guest speaker and performed at the event.

Photos courtesy of Medford Public Schools