Posted: Monday, June 29, 2015

Four new members were inducted into the Charles E. Maynard Society in a ceremony on June 24 at the Hope Club in Providence. Honored this year were: BankRI; Durkee, Brown, Viveiros & Werenfels Architects, Inc.; Hollis Meddings Group; and UFCW Union, Local 328.

Named for The Providence Center’s founder and former president, the Charles E. Maynard Society gives special recognition to individuals, corporations and foundations who have made a philanthropic commitment to The Providence Center. Members have made cumulative gifts to The Providence Center totaling $10,000 or named The Providence Center in a planned gift, such as a bequest, trust or retirement plan.

Providence Center President Dale K. Klatzker, Ph.D. addressed members with an update on The Center’s programs. The event also showcased the artwork of Carl Dunn, a published artist and illustrator and client in The Providence Center’s Home Base program. In a presentation by Jennifer Pare, substance use specialist, the audience learned about Dunn’s story of recovery. After many years as a successful artist, Dunn was suddenly homeless and battling mental health and substance use issues. Homeless outreach workers from The Providence Center encouraged him to join Home Base, which located permanent housing for him and provided treatment for his mental health needs and alcohol abuse. Today, Dunn has regained his profession as an artist and credits The Providence Center with giving him a second chance.

“Honestly, if it weren’t for The Providence Center, I’d probably be dead,” Dunn said. “I wouldn’t have survived another winter on the streets. I’m so grateful for what they’ve done for me.”

Recipients pictured below: (left) Mark Meiklejohn, President and CEO of BankRI with Scott Lajoie, VP of Commercial Banking. (Right) Joe Medding, CPA, Principal of Hollis Meddings Group.