BHCC Special Program Coordinator for Students Who are Parents Honored as ABCD Community Hero

Monday, November 18, 2024

Carmen Rondash is one of 18 community leaders honored by the Boston non-profit 

BHCC Special Program Coordinator for Students Who are Parents, Carmen Rondash, was honored as a Community Hero by Action for Boston Community Development—one of 18 local community heroes the non-profit feted at its annual celebration earlier this month. 

Honorees included educators, health professionals, artists, nonprofit leaders and parents from across the city who are doing yeoman's work on behalf of underserved people — children, families, elders and the homeless in Greater Boston and the Mystic Valley, and who advocate for social justice and equity in all its forms. Community Heroes were nominated from across the region by ABCD neighborhood centers, programs, and affiliates for their selfless contribution of time, energy, expertise and compassion. 

Rondash, who came to BHCC almost two years ago, has served on the Head Start Policy Council most recently as treasurer and representative to the ABCD Board of Directors. Carmen, a single parent of four children, reached out to ABCD for childcare and fuel assistance. He got more than he asked for. Carmen became an involved Head Start parent -- initially joining the parenting council at ABCD’s JFK Family Service Center in Charlestown. “I like how Head Start looks for parent involvement,” he said. “It allowed me the opportunity to get to know the people who were watching my kids.” 

He said that his upbringing in Rochester, New York is what motivated him to take on additional duties. “I come from a community where service is needed and expected.” 

BHCC is a partner of Child Care Choices of Boston, ABCD’s early education and care resource and referral program. 

Boston native Lawrence O’Donnell, host of MSNBC’s The Last Word, and Tennessee State Representative Justin J. Pearson of the “Tennessee Three” provided the keynote conversation. NBC 10’s Glenn Jones served as emcee and Lynn native Amanda Mena, grand prize winner on La Voz Kids and Golden Buzzer winner on America's Got Talent who is known for her hit song Soy Latina performed.