Larry Smith
Boston Fire Department
Boston, MA
"It is my honor to nominate Larry Smith, a leader in the Boston Fire Department, for the Do Good Heroes Award," said Robert Marchewka of Rise North Capital, Mr. Smith's nominator. "Larry has dedicated his career to protecting the public and transforming the lives of young people throughout Boston's neighborhoods. He co-founded the Community Enrichment Program (CEP), a youth mentorship and outreach initiative that uses athletics — especially basketball — and consistent presence to guide young people toward brighter futures." Mr. Smith and fellow firefighter Jorge Diaz first began mentoring youth at local community centers after connecting through pick-up basketball games. What started as informal relationship-building soon evolved into a structured community program designed to provide positive role models, guidance, and opportunity for city youth. Recognizing the impact these efforts could have at scale, Mr. Smith helped champion CEP into an official Boston Fire Department program in 2018 — demonstrating vision, leadership, and persistence. The program's mission is clear: "to interact with and educate Boston's youth by giving them productively enjoyable and athletic outlets while serving as positive role models." Mr. Smith's work with CEP not only enriches children's lives today, but shapes Boston's future. The program helps young people discover potential careers in the fire service, increasing community-connected recruitment and building a pipeline of diverse, compassionate future first responders. By investing in young people now, Mr. Smith is helping create safer, more unified communities for generations to come. "Larry Smith embodies the very spirit of the Do Good Heroes mission: service that extends beyond duty, leadership through action and presence, and dedication to empowering the next generation. I wholeheartedly recommend Larry Smith for this honor. His character, commitment, and community impact deserve national recognition," said Marchewka.