January Recipient – Lauren Callahan

Lauren Callahan is a senior at Needham High School. Lauren was nominated for the tremendous kindness and respect that she shows to all students. Her commitment on the local level is evident in her volunteer efforts with the Best Buddies (formerly Rocket Connections) Program at Needham High school. She volunteers at the Charles River Association for Retarded Citizens through the Excel Club at Needham High School as well. She has traveled to Peru with Saint Joseph's parish and will travel to Lexington Virginia with Habitat for Humanity. Lauren volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House, Hospice and Palliative Care of Cape Cod and the Cape Cod Hospital. This fall Lauren was co-captain of the swim team and looks forward to her fourth year on the Needham High School tennis team. Lauren was selected and attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Nursing in Boston. She plans to continue to serve others as she aspires to become a Nurse Practitioner. Lauren enjoys serving as a lifeguard over the summer.    

Needham Youth Commission Representative – Jon Mattleman

Jon is the Director of the Needham Youth Commission, and a firm believer in the ability of youth to contribute to the larger community. He envisions this program as one in which to highlight the positive actions of the young people of Needham.

Needham Youth Commission Representative – Charlie Wagner

Charlie Wagner is the proprietor of The Wicker Lady, an exceptionally fine home furnishings and design store established in 1982. Charlie and her family have been residents of Needham since 1979. She is a member of the National Home Furnishings Association and the Home Furnishings Association of New England and is involved in volunteer activities in the community. Charlie has been a member of the Needham Business Association for 12 years and is immediate past president of the NBA.  Charlie and her family are very supportive of the many endeavors that benefit others and believe that education and support of our youth is the key to our future.