Boys Town New England

Bill Reardon, Boys Town New England Executive Director (left) and Father Steve Boes, Boys Town National Executive Director (right), honor William W. Corcoran with the 2007 Spirit of Youth Award Oct. 21 at the Newport Hotel Viking.

New England Honors William W. Corcoran with Spirit of Youth Award

Boys Town New England honored one of its most distinguished supporters while raising vital support for the children it serves during the 2007 Spirit of Youth Gala.

The Oct. 21 event at the Hotel Viking paid tribute to Newport attorney William W. Corcoran, recipient of the 2007 Spirit of Youth Award. The award is presented to individuals whose words, actions and examples have a profoundly positive impact on the lives and dreams of America’s youth.

“Bill Corcoran is a true man of character who is respected, admired and appreciated beyond expression,” said Bill Reardon, Boys Town New England Executive Director. “At Boys Town, we’re not just ‘helping kids’; we are saving lives, and we could not do that without the generous support of people like Mr. Corcoran.”

Corcoran has been a loyal and good friend to Boys Town and the youth and families it serves since the organization first started in Rhode Island in 1991. He was an instrumental member of the group of concerned citizens that helped Boys Town establish its programs in Rhode Island. Over the years, Corcoran has served on several committees and foundations which have helped many children and families in need.

Through dinner, dancing and a silent and live auction, the annual Gala raised funds for children and families who find help, healing and hope through Boys Town New England’s programs. Silent auction items included autographed pictures of Red Sox sluggers Manny Ramirez, David Ortiz, and a football helmet autographed by New England Patriot quarterback Tom Brady. All proceeds from the event will help the site continue its services for children and families in need.

“This responsibility is one that we embrace, but cannot do alone,” said Reardon. “It takes all of us to provide help, healing and hope to children who may not know it otherwise.”

The annual event also recognized Boys Town’s 90^th Anniversary. Founded in 1917 by Father Flanagan, Boys Town now serves 47,000 children annually through direct youth care and health care programs in 14 states and the District of Columbia. Boys Town New England brings Father Flanagan’s dream to hurting children and families in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.