Applying decals

BOSTON — Some 40 Ipswitch Inc. employees were among those volunteering to join a Red Sox-affiliated foundation in giving up to 200 needy Boston children and family members a hearty lunch and a much-needed chance to socialize. The Foundation To Be Named Later (FTBNL), the Red Sox affiliate, organized the event as part of a national day of service to mark the 9-11 World Trade Center terrorist tragedy.

For the Saturday, Sept. 10 luncheon, FTBNL reached out to a charity which helps infants in poverty — Room To Grow — to help organize and support the luncheon at the Bank of America Pavilion at the Waterfront Seaport in South Boston.  Other beneficiaries and invitees to the luncheon were coming from the West End House Boys and Girls Club and Horizons for Homeless Children. Six Boston-area restaurants were donating nourishing food and catering the event, along with water and juices donated by Nestle.

Parents raising babies in poverty face many challenges including isolation and lack of resources, say organizers of the event. A special social gathering over lunch can provide meaningful social connections and much-needed respite.

Some of the Ipswitch volunteers

FTBNL is an Ipswitch iCare partner.  The Ipswitch volunteers are helping serve lunch, and to entertain the infants and families through things like face painting, balloon animals and music.  Other Ipswitch team members not attending donated such items as toys, feeding and toddler supplies, clothes, furniture and books.

(Click on additional photos courtesy of Ennio Carboni) :

• Roger Greene with team
• Blowing bubbles in the sun
• Decal distribution