There was cause for hope and celebration at the MLK Center’s annual meeting on Jan 19. Executive Director Heather Strout shared how the organization has strengthened its capacity to serve more people than ever before — 8,706 over the past year.
For 104 years, the MLK Center has served as a beacon of hope and now offers 25 programs. Several new initiatives are launching this year, including Saturday breakfast service, a North End food pantry, and the Rinse and Renew Shower Program, which was successfully piloted last year. Staff at the center also partner with more than 100 community organizations, working collaboratively to help individuals and families move toward self-reliance.
Also on the rise are the scholarships the center provides to working families in need of childcare, holiday gifts, food, and more. Last year, the nonprofit awarded $273k in need-based scholarships. Board Treasurer Theresa Wosencroft noted that the allocation in the 2026 budget will increase to $370k.
The evening focused on celebrating the exceptional commitment of those who support the organization. Strout described Content of Character Award recipient Ginny Gilman as a dependable and deeply thoughtful volunteer across several programs.
The Washington Square branch of Citizens Bank received the Community Partner Award for allowing the Center to operate its parking lot — creating jobs and wages for people in need, as well as revenue for programs that provide hunger relief and educational opportunities for children — for nearly 20 years. “This bank helps its customers and its community reach their potential,” Strout said.
The Keeper of the Dream Award was presented to Jerry Kirby, whom Strout praised for his unwavering generosity and compassion. “Jerry has a huge heart for the MLK Center,” she said, noting that the owner of a premier high-end construction company has long understood that there is another Newport. “He has supported our events and holiday programs for more than a dozen years. Even during a time of terrible personal loss, he still reached out.” Strout added that she could not imagine the MLK Center — or the broader community — without him.
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