Dacon’s Designed with Dignity funds social program for 50 members at Friendship Home

Norwell, MA Dacon’s Designed with Dignity philanthropy honored the retirement of longtime friend and business colleague Michael Prendergast, president of Burgin Platner and Co., with funding for 50 individuals with developmental disabilities to attend social recreational programs at Friendship Home.

“We offer social programs five nights per week, none of which are supported by state funding. As a result, 50% of our budget is reliant upon the generous support we receive from the community. This funding helps to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities ages 12 and older of all income levels and social demographic backgrounds in our community have access to life-enriching experiences that help them learn social skills, achieve a sense of accomplishment, and have fun,” said Andrea Pyke, executive director at Friendship Home. “Michael and his team have long been involved with us, and we are delighted to see his generous spirit honored in this way.”

Friendship Home offers cooking nights, art lessons, dancing, outdoor recreation, exercise classes, and community outings to more than 200 members.

In 1999 two South Shore mothers - Wilma Goodhue and Joan Mullare - began Friendship Home in response to a desperate need for overnight respite care for families of individuals with developmental challenges. In 2004 the United Church of Christ in Norwell donated land with construction fueled by a community challenge grant from philanthropist Doris Buffet. Along with Friendship Club, the organization offers the Bridges to Work vocational program and Home Away From Home overnight respite care.

Dacon’s Designed with Dignity (DwD) philanthropy initiative was founded on the belief that local organizations empower change and that positive change can transform the trajectory of a person’s life. DwD seeks to acknowledge, encourage and highlight the work of organizations that create measurable change. Working at the intersection of activation, awareness and support, DwD financially aids those brave enough to build long lasting impact. Within the last year 1,165 lives have been enhanced by this program.