Moulton Announces Honorees for the 11th Annual Peter J. Gomes Service Award

Honorees from Gloucester, Saugus, Lynn, Amesbury, and Salem will be honored at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

SALEM, MA - Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) has selected five honorees for the 11th annual Peter J. Gomes Service Award. Created in 2016 by Congressman Moulton, the award recognizes the volunteer work and community contributions of constituents across Massachusetts' 6th District.

The five honorees will be honored at a public awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 29 at 6:00 PM in Salem.

These five members of our community demonstrate the integrity, compassion, and commitment to community that were characterized by the Congressman's late mentor, Reverend Professor Peter J. Gomes.

The late Reverend Professor Gomes was a Christian minister who served for nearly forty years in The Memorial Church of Harvard University. As a preacher, teacher, and leader, he influenced many with his wit and wisdom and, above all, with his commitment to service. Reverend Professor Gomes was Congressman Moulton's mentor and friend, ultimately inspiring him to serve in the Marines and later to run for Congress. The award honors volunteers who demonstrate a similar level of commitment to service and community.

This year's honorees are:

Prataap Patrose - Gloucester, MA

Prataap is the Co-founder and President of the 100 Trees Project, a nonprofit advancing environmental equity in Gloucester, Rockport and across Cape Ann. Since 2020, he has spearheaded volunteer-driven tree planting initiatives targeting urban heat islands in public housing, parks, and thoroughfares. Partnering with local municipalities and community groups, Prataap works to transform underserved public spaces into cooler, healthier, and more resilient environments.

Lorraine Sanborn - Saugus, MA

Lorraine has dedicated herself to teaching English to immigrants and helping them build community. Since 2014, she has volunteered with Catholic Charities Boston's language programs in Salem and Lynn, delivering weekly lessons to nonnative speakers. Through her compassion and commitment, Lorraine creates a welcoming environment that empowers her students with the skills, confidence, and sense of belonging needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

BG (MA)(Ret) Andrea Gayle-Bennett - Lynn, MA

Brigadier General Gayle-Bennett serves as the Adjutant for Lynn-Swampscott Disabled American Veterans Chapter #64, continuing her dedication to veterans across her district following her post-retirement promotion to Brigadier General by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. She connects local veterans with housing, food, and peer support while advocating alongside community leaders. By organizing social events and building reliable support networks, she works to reduce isolation and enhance the quality of life for disabled veterans.

Jo Hamel - Amesbury, MA

Jo founded Caiden's Crusaders in honor of her grandson to support families facing childhood cancer across the 6th District. The volunteer-run nonprofit provides direct financial assistance to help families direct their focus to their child's care. Through local raffles and fundraisers, Jo mobilizes a strong community network that ensures no family has to navigate childhood cancer alone.

Pam Kentley - Salem, MA

Pam serves as Vice President of the Woman's Friend Society, overseeing Salem's historic Emmerton House to provide affordable housing for working women and students. She actively coordinates events, hosts fundraisers, and supports residents daily to build a strong community of women. Beyond her work with the Society, Pam volunteers with local food banks and cat rescue efforts to improve quality of life across Salem.

Award Ceremony Details:

Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Location: St. Joseph Hall, Second Floor, 160 Derby Street, Salem, MA 01970

Members of the public with questions about the Gomes Award should reach out to [email protected]

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