From left: David Bresnahan; Melissa Velazquez; Dan Farley; Dr. Ruth Evee; Amanda Gorner; Lesley Christian; Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll; Suzana Haxhiaj; and Higher Ground’s Brandy Brooks and Mossik Hacobian. Photo by Annette Grant
Crispus Attucks Children’s Center in Grove Hall celebrated 55 years of nurturing and educating Boston’s youngest learners with an anniversary Garden Celebration on Sat., Sept. 19, at its Crawford Street campus.
The adults-only celebration brought together families, alumni, staff, community leaders, supporters, and friends for an afternoon of live music, food and drinks, a silent auction, and a brief program celebrating the Center’s history and impact.
The event attracted guests like Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, honored Lesley Christian, who served as CACC’s executive director for 35 years, and recognized the late John Christian for his longstanding service and commitment to the Center.
During Christian’s tenure, CACC grew into what she described as “a campus for toddlers”—a 2.5-acre early education campus serving more than 200 children.
“For 55 years, Crispus Attucks Children’s Center has been a place where children, families, educators, and neighbors come together,” said Amanda Gorner, executive director of CACC.
“This celebration was an opportunity to honor the people who built that legacy, especially Lesley and John Christian, while also looking ahead to the children, families, and staff who will shape CACC’s next chapter.”
Food and drinks were provided by Noire Chef Boston, founded by Chef Nikia Spotts, a CACC alumna.
Founded in 1971, the center provides year-round early education, family support, and enrichment programs for approximately 200 children from birth through age six.
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