Charles Hayden Foundation, New York City

“I would especially thank the students that have allowed me to serve as a mentor/friend/surrogate Dad. I know I have benefited from the relationship more than they have. Those students have taught me more about perseverance, dignity and love than I can possibly describe.”

- Ken Merin President & CEO, Charles Hayden Foundation

The Charles Hayden Foundation has been a significant multi-year supporter of Summer Search in both New York City and Boston. The foundation consistently seeks creative ways to provide holistic support to Summer Search students through grants, access to cultural resources, and pivotal networking opportunities.

In particular CEO and President, Ken Merin, a caring and attentive listener, knows the histories, lives, and challenges of many students and alumni. Every student who has met Ken, has expressed confidence just knowing that he genuinely cares about their opinions and welfare as well as supporting them financially. In fact, our alumni have dubbed him “Papa Merin.” Papa Merin will be honored at this year’s Boston Leadership Dinner with the first-ever Summer Search Leadership Award.