Beth-El Center’s annual ‘Light the Way’ Spring Gala fundraiser on Saturday, June 1 will include a new awards ceremony where long-time supporters of the center will be presented with Beth-El Champion Awards.
The Champion Awards recognize and honor an individual and a business that has shown exemplary commitment and has made long-standing contributions to Beth-El Center and its mission to alleviate homelessness and hunger in the Milford community.
Richard Meisenheimer. Photo courtesy of the the Beth-El Center.
The Beth-El Individual Champion Award will be given to Richard Meisenheimer, managing director of the Meisenheimer Foundation in Milford. Meisenheimer served on Beth-El’s Board of Directors for six years and continues to serve on Beth-El’s Advisory Committee. His diligent oversight during some of the turbulent years guided the Beth-El Center toward the solid financial ground it now enjoys. His individual donations and funds from the Meisenheimer Foundation have been used to directly support and grow the center’s emergency shelter and soup kitchen services and have positioned the organization to provide growing services, such as its outreach and engagement program.
“Rich is a generous and caring person who has been one of the center’s most ardent supporters,” said Beth-El Executive Director Jenn Paradis. “He’s been a committed and valued advocate for many years – a role model of an ideal board member. We’re grateful for him and the impact he’s had on our organization.”
Bobette Moore and Gary Caulfield, co-owners of Bobette’s Take Out in Milford. Photo courtesy of the Beth-El Center.
The Beth-El Business Champion Award will be bestowed on Bobette Moore and Gary Caulfield, co-owners of Bobette’s Take Out in Milford. Over 10 years ago, Bobette’s Take Out started its “Butternut Buddy Month” annual February tradition, in which a portion of butternut squash soup sales is donated to Beth-El Center.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to Bobette’s Take Out for their long-term fundraising commitment to the Beth-El Center. As a small business, they’ve truly shown their care for people experiencing homeless and hunger in our area,” Paradis said.
Gala and awards ceremony tickets are $100 per person. To sponsor the event or to secure tickets, please visit bethelmilford.org/gala or call 203-876-0747.