Tim Garvin Celebrated for Impact on Nonprofit Sector and Communities Across the Commonwealth
A respected and beloved leader in the nonprofit sector for over two decades, Tim is being honored for his thoughtful approach to philanthropy. This approach is reflected in his many accomplishments, including his track record of creating partnerships between nonprofits, government, and communities to make a measurable impact on the lives of residents in and around Worcester and across the state.
“Tim is an extraordinary person who cares deeply for our community and especially for those who struggle. I admire his ability to bring people together and I am grateful for his compassion and his heart,” Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) said. “I am glad the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network is recognizing Tim with this well-deserved award. Our communities in Worcester and across the state are stronger thanks to Tim’s leadership and service.”
“Tim’s passion, commitment, and energy epitomizes the service and leadership that make nonprofits such an innovative engine for a strong Commonwealth,” said David Shapiro, Chair of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network’s Board of Directors. “We’re privileged to honor Tim and recognize his achievements and unique ability to bring people, nonprofits, and sectors together in order to strengthen communities.”
A well-known and respected presence in communities in and around Worcester, Tim became CEO of the United Way of Central MA, an almost century-old philanthropic cornerstone, in 2006. Under his leadership, the organization has stabilized financially, increased investments in the community, and orchestrated several current partnerships with Public Schools, local and government officials, and partner agencies to support children and families. He is extremely proud of the “One City, One Library” collaboration and of “Working for Worcester” – a student created, student-led effort that has completed more than 50 projects that brings recreation to all of Worcester’s children. From 2014-2015, the United Way of Central MA invested nearly $5.2 million 30 in cities and communities in the central region of the state.
“I am moved beyond words to receive this honor,” said Tim. “That it is from my peers in the nonprofit sector makes it all the more special.”
Tim is also the Chair of the Council of Massachusetts United Ways, a role that allows him to extend his influence statewide by advocating for organizational collaboration. In addition to his professional position with the United Way Tim spends important hours and days serving as an advocate for the American Diabetes Association and every year travels to Washington to bring attention to the importance of volunteerism and such efforts as the Peace Corps. Prior to joining the United Way of Central Massachusetts, Tim spent 20+ years in leadership roles within nonprofit agencies including serving as the Vice President/Executive Director of the Central Branch of the YMCA of Greater Boston; Executive Director of the Allston Brighton Family YMCA/Oak Square YMCA; and as a volunteer with the U.S. Peace Corps in Jamaica, West Indies.
Each year MNN, the state’s largest organization serving the nonprofit sector, honors an outstanding nonprofit leader who has impacted the sector. Award winners are nominated and selected by their peers, leaders in the nonprofit sector. Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include Beth Smith, Charles Rucks, Maurice Boisvert, Bill Walczak, Rev. Ray A. Hammond and Rev. Gloria White-Hammond, Paul Grogan, Fran Froelich, and Kip Tiernan. To learn more about MNN’s conference visit www.massnonprofitnet.org/conference.
