Boston Celtics Honor John Iovieno As A Hero Among Us

(L to R) Antoine Walker of the Boston Celtics, John Iovieno, David Welsey of the Charlotte Hornets

On March 4, 2001, the Boston Celtics honored John Iovieno, by presenting him with a Heroes Among Us award. The Heroes Among Us award recognizes those individuals that have made exceptional and lasting contributions to their community. After reading the Boston Globe article about Caring For Children on Christmas Eve in 2000, the Celtic personnel chose John Iovieno to be honored. The award was presented to John at center court by Celtics player Antoine Walker and Charlotte Hornets player, David Welsey at a Celtics game, while details of his community efforts were announced over the public address system.

“Four years ago, with no particular child in mind, John donated a holiday gift to Children’s Hospital. After hearing about the impact he made on a young patient, John founded the Frank Iovieno Caring for Children at Christmas Foundation, named in honor of his late father. The year-round foundation provides children in the Hospital’s AIDS program with necessities most of us take for granted, such as clothing, food, and toys. The Foundation served over 125 families living in the Boston area.”

All the individuals honored on this evening were read into the United States Congressional Record by Massachusetts Senator, Ted Kennedy on June 22, 2001.