a legacy of investing in our community
NEWS
The Lynch Foundation
From the inspiring work of our grantees to important updates from the Foundation, this page highlights the people, partnerships, and ideas driving impact in our communities.
We’re proud to share stories of progress, innovation, and collaboration — and to celebrate the leaders and moments that shape our mission.
Yes in God’s Backyard
July 2026A recent Boston Globe editorial spotlighted an emerging solution to Massachusetts' housing shortage, recognizing research commissioned by The Lynch Foundation as a key resource in the conversation around "Yes in God's Backyard" (YIGBY) legislation.
The editorial highlights how faith-based organizations across the Commonwealth have a unique opportunity to help expand the housing supply by developing underutilized land they already own. If enacted, YIGBY legislation would make it easier for eligible religious institutions to create much-needed housing, particularly affordable and mixed-income developments, while reducing regulatory barriers.
Central to the discussion is a statewide study commissioned by The Lynch Foundation and conducted by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy's Center for Geospatial Solutions. The research identified nearly 5,000 parcels of faith-owned land, totaling more than 20,000 acres, with significant potential for residential development. The study also found that nearly two-thirds of these properties already have access to water and sewer infrastructure, and more than half are located within walkable communities, making them well-suited for housing.
As Lynch Foundation Executive Director Kate Everett noted in the editorial, "We ran all the analytics. There's nowhere else to go but here."
The Foundation's investment in this research reflects its commitment to advancing practical, data-driven solutions that strengthen communities and expand access to affordable housing throughout Massachusetts. By identifying opportunities that already exist within our neighborhoods, this work is helping inform public policy and support innovative partnerships between faith communities, nonprofit developers, and local leaders.
As conversations around YIGBY continue on Beacon Hill, The Lynch Foundation remains committed to supporting research and initiatives that create equitable opportunities for individuals and families across the Commonwealth.
Source: "Yes in God's Backyard could be a providential solution to the state's housing crisis," The Boston Globe Editorial Board, July 15, 2026.
A map of religiously owned developable parcels from The Lynch Foundation.
Revolutionary Spaces
July 2026As Boston continues to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding, Revolutionary Spaces' Ruckus! offers a powerful new way to experience the stories that shaped America. "This immersive show drops you right into the heart of the debate and defiance that once filled this iconic space, where ordinary people set extraordinary change in motion. From the floorboards to the balconies, you will be surrounded by dynamic sound, lighting, and projected animations of fiery revolutionaries, determined citizens, and some unlikely troublemakers whose courage shook these walls."
Congratulations to Revolutionary Spaces on an extraordinary launch, welcoming more than 4,000 visitors across their First Night, Encore, and opening weekend events and kicking off what promises to be an exciting new chapter in sharing Boston's history. The Lynch Foundation is proud to celebrate this milestone and the Revolutionary Spaces team, creative partners, supporters, and volunteers who helped bring this remarkable vision to life.
Revolutionary Spaces is a nonprofit organization that tells the interwoven stories of Boston's two iconic landmarks—the Old State House and Old South Meeting House. Through its mission to bring people together to explore America's ongoing struggle to create and sustain a free society, Revolutionary Spaces inspires dialogue, civic engagement, and the continuing practice of democracy.
Photo courtesy of @sunnyandnatephoto
The BASE Graduation
July 2026What another incredible year and celebration of their scholar-athletes' hard work, dedication, and growth. The BASE provides student-athletes year-round athletic training, conditioning, and competition; academic support; career development opportunities; and health and wellness initiatives.
The BASE Mission: We leverage the power and passion of sports and provide a range of engaging educational opportunities in an environment that cultivates talent and fosters love, hope, and belief. We believe Urban Talent is America’s greatest resource and we are creating a future in which urban young people will lead and thrive in the American economy.
Photo courtesy of The BASE
Harvard Medical School MEDscience
July 2026The Lynch Foundation is committed to advancing education and global health through our continued partnership with Harvard Medical School's HMS MEDscience and the Chair’s Opportunity Fund in Global Health. Our latest support will expand access to HMS MEDscience, helping more young people—especially those from underserved communities—explore careers in health care and the life sciences, while also strengthening global health through flexible funding for the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine.
As Peter Lynch, our President and Co-Founder, shared, "MEDscience marries two of our core priorities—education and health care—while also building a pipeline of future leaders in medicine and science and strengthening the health care workforce of tomorrow." He added, "We're proud to help more young people discover what's possible for them in health care and the life sciences."
Investing in education, workforce development, and health equity creates opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom and the lab. We're honored to support the next generation of leaders and innovators.
Day of AI
June 2026Our Executive Director, Katie Everett was on the Nightside with Dan Rea Show to discuss “Closing the Ai Education Gap” with Jeffrey C. Riley, Executive Director of Day of AI.
Their conversation explored the transformative potential of the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit for Massachusetts’ students and families as well as the inspiring work of Day of AI, including its upcoming America’s Youth AI Festival at Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT) and UMass Boston from July 17–19.
Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Conservancy
June 2026
Photo courtesy of Jacob Chang-Rascle
The Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Conservancy held their annual celebration bringing people "together to celebrate a place that means so much to our city—and to all of us." The evening furthers their conservancy efforts through "community-led programming, care for our ecologically maintained landscapes, and innovative, meaningful public art—all in a park that is free and open to all". Furthermore, it was an opportunity to honoring long-time leaders: Carole Charnow, President & CEO, Boston Children’s Museum; Cheryl Cronin, CEO, Boston Public Market; Gary Dunning, President & Executive Director, Vivo Performing Arts.
The Lynch Foundation has partnered with the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Conservancy and the Boston Children's Museum for almost twenty years and continues to be impressed by their vision, innovation, and commitment. Congratulations to the Conservancy, Carole, and the other awardees for their ongoing effort and impact!
Lynch Leadership Academy
June 2026
Photo courtesy of Chris Soldt
Lynch Leadership Academy graduated its most recent cohort of leaders this Spring! Congratulations to all the Fellows on their growth, advancement, and collective readiness to lead as they embark on the next phase of their leadership journey, championing success for their students and school communities.
Lynch Leadership Academy’s mission is to develop a powerful and sustainable network of highly effective leaders at schools, within systems, and in communities, who will disrupt inequity and dramatically increase the opportunities and outcomes for all students. Lynch Leadership Academy is a collaborative, cross-sector community of school and district leaders who work to transform educational experiences of students in Massachusetts and Northeast Ohio.
Embrace Boston
June 2026
Photo courtesy of Brightside Media
At the end of May, Embrace Boston hosted its inaugural Embrace Honors Harry Hom Dow: Carry It Forward event at the 1965 Freedom Plaza. "[A]n evening dedicated to honoring a pioneering civil rights leader and celebrating the individuals carrying his legacy into the future.
Harry Hom Dow used the law as a tool for justice at a time when systems were designed to exclude. His courage and commitment helped expand opportunity and belonging for countless individuals and families. On May 21, we came together to recognize that legacy and the AANHPI leaders whose work continues to strengthen our civic, cultural, and community life today...We were honored to recognize this year's honorees and hear reflections on leadership, belonging, advocacy, and the importance of preserving and sharing our stories." - Embrace Boston
Congratulations to the inaugural honorees: Frederick Hom Dow, Helen Chin Schlichte, Nick Chau, Paul Lee, Suzanne Lee, Tina Zhu Xi Caruso, MA Senator, Vanna Howard!
Artists-in-Residence at Lynch Family Skatepark
May 2026
Photo courtesy of Rayven Heath
BIG NEWS! Charles River Conservancy recently announced their 2026 Graffiti Artists-in-Residence at Lynch Family Skatepark: Victoria DelValle and Ananda Toulon! "Boston-based visual artists DelValle and Toulon built a strong creative relationship through their shared fellowship at Artists for Humanity, and the 2026 skatepark residency marks the formal project debut of their work as a duo.
Together, DelValle and Toulon bring complementary strengths in visual narrative, spray-paint fluency, and community-centered making—creating work that evolves through presence, dialogue, and participation. [Check out] their visual signatures of saturated color and surreal symbolism emerge and flow on the concrete pillar backdrop of skaters shredding all summer."
Peter Lynch Day
May 2026
Peter with students from Boston’s Cathedral High School. Photo Courtesy of CHS
On the third annual Peter Lynch Day, Peter, his daughter Elizabeth, and Katie - Executive Director, spent the morning at Cathedral High School listening to scholars discuss their high school experiences, learning about their college plans, touring the Wellness Center, and much more. Cathedral has been proudly serving its community for 100 years - and Peter and the foundation are proud, long-time partners. Here's to Peter Lynch Day and to the next 100 years at Cathedral High School!
Artists For Humanity
May 2026
Congratulations to Artists for Humanity on their 35th year of impact and Greatest Party Celebration. An organization "where teens are employed to explore and express their creative abilities...Artists for Humanity (AFH) harnesses the power of art, mentorship and paid professional experiences to inspire teens to build their future".
An early partner of AFH, The Lynch Foundation has remained proudly committed to their mission, impact, and trajectory including a 2018 grant to enable their EpiCenter facility to expand by more than 30,000 square feet and double teen employment in the following three years as well as a recent grant to support their next phase of leadership and ongoing growth. Congratulations to AFH's incredible staff and community!
Breast Cancer Research Foundation Annual Event
April 2026
Photo Courtesy of Michael Blanchard
President and Co-Founder Peter Lynch and Katie Everett, Executive Director, attended the The Breast Cancer Research Foundation's annual Boston Hot Pink Party as part of almost twenty years of ongoing partnership. Programming included: "BCRF Scientific Director Judy Garber [sharing] the latest breakthroughs in the field, while Abby and Al Pastyrnak delivered moving remarks on the power of research in Abby’s experience living with metastatic breast cancer.
This year, BCRF is awarding more than $8.9 million in grants to 42 scientists across New England, bringing its total investment in the region to over $144 million." - BCRF
MA Coalition Federal Scholarship Tax Credit FSTC Event
April 2026
Over 150 people across 91 organizations gathered at the JFK Presidential Library and Museum to attend a Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC) Event, hosted by the Massachusetts Educational Opportunities Coalition. This event offered space to discuss the FSTC program and the opportunities to leverage taxpayer-directed contributions to expand access to high-quality educational opportunities (tutoring, special education services, out-of-school-time programs, and more) - all without increasing state spending.
Thank you to the speakers for leading the conversation: Kevin P. Chavous - Former President of StrideK12 Nicholas Hernadez - Co-Founder and Executive Director of Transform Education Now, Jeff Riley, Co-Founder and Executive Director - Day of AI, Ariel Taylor Smith, Senior Director of Policy and Action - National Parents Union, and Wilbert Pineda, Vice President - The Somerville Foundation, and special video by Arne Duncan, Former U.S. Secretary of Education.
Mission Grammar School
March 2026
The Mission Grammar School officially broke ground today on its transformative $31 million campus expansion - a project aimed to provide facilities for top-tier academic, extra-curricular, spiritual, and emotional enrichment. A founding member of the Lynch Early Education Initiative's first cohort, Mission Grammar’s campaign will also enable it to welcome more scholars into its infant - Grade 6 program while also protecting the history, memories, and impact of over 100 years serving and educating families in the heart of Boston. Congratulations!
Mission Grammar is an urban, college-prep Catholic school dedicated to reaching individual excellence in a faith-based community rooted in Gospel values.
CHAPA Housing Forum
March 2026
Yesterday, Katie Everett, our Executive Director, spoke at Citizens' Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA)'s panel about the Foundation's research with Lincoln Institute of Land Policy on land owned by faith-based organizations and the possibilities it offers if developed to increase available housing in Massachusetts, especially affordable housing. Joining her were representatives from Planning Office for Urban Affairs (POUA), JEWISH ALLIANCE FOR LAW AND SOCIAL ACTION INC, and Father Bill's & MainSpring to discuss the proposed Yes In God's Backyard (YIGBY) legislation.
"The bill — nicknamed YIGBY, or “Yes in God’s Backyard’ — is part of a larger housing package being reviewed by the state Senate. In its current form, it would allow religious organizations such as churches, synagogues and other faith-based groups to build multifamily housing on land they have owned for at least three years, regardless of local zoning. At least 20% of the units in a development must be designated affordable housing."
Carolyn & Peter Lynch Profile by Philanthropy Roundtable
March 2026
“Nearly four decades ago, Carolyn and Peter Lynch embarked on a philanthropic journey rooted in humility, faith, and a deep commitment to service—one that has significantly shaped and strengthened the Greater Boston area. What began as a personal expression of gratitude has evolved into a model of disciplined, values-driven philanthropy, marked by long-term commitment, institutional trust and enduring community impact.”
.
Thank you Philanthropy Roundtable for sharing more about Carolyn and Peter’s decades of belief and investment in our Greater Boston communities. We’re grateful to do this work alongside our grantees in service of strengthening their impact and longevity.
Partners In Health
March 2026
Isata Dumbuya in Sierra Leone on June 10, 2025. Photo by Chiara Herold/PIH
Congratulations to Isata Dumbuya of Partners In Health for being one of the (16) global leaders selected to TIME’s annual Women of the Year list for the efforts to making a better, more equitable world. Dumbuya currently serves as the director of nursing and midwifery for the reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child and adolescent health program at the Maternal Center of Excellence (MCOE). Learn more at:
“It is an honor to be recognized for work that is truly a collective effort at Partners In Health,” said Dumbuya. “I am so proud and grateful to share this spotlight with the thousands of colleagues, especially the heroic nurses, midwives, and doctors in Sierra Leone, whose unwavering commitment is the foundation of our work. Together, we are proving that health equity is not just a dream but can be a life-saving reality.” - Isata Dumbuya, Partners In Health
The Lynch Foundation has been a proud, ongoing partner of Partners In Health for over 30 years, starting in 1994 through a small grant to support research on multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Peru. This work ultimately enabled PIH to successfully lead global treatment trials, which led to the cure and prevention of further tuberculosis transmission, saving millions of lives. Most recently, in 2023, the Lynch Foundation made a multi-year commitment to support the Paul E. Farmer Scholarship fund in memoriam of their late founder.
The Lynch Foundation
February 2026
We’re thrilled to share that Peter Lynch, our co-founder and president, has been named one of Forbes’ Top 250 Innovators—a recognition that celebrates those who embody the creative spirit driving America forward. As Forbes noted in launching its yearlong series honoring America’s 250th birthday, “innovation is the grease in the economic engine, the sparkle that keeps culture fresh, and the key ingredient in nearly every billion-dollar fortune”. This honor reflects these innovators’ visionary leadership and their success in turning bold ideas into real-world impact. Congratulations, Peter, on a well-deserved recognition!