The IPC will hold their Annual Fundraising Banquet on Saturday, November 15 at Florian Hall, 55 Hallet Street, Dorchester. This year’s special guest will be GAA legend, Tyrone Senior Football Manager, Mickey Harte.

To most people who recognize Mickey Harte’s photo, he is the face of determination and triumph. As Tyrone GAA’s current and most successful manager, he has led Tyrone to three All-Ireland titles, four Ulster titles, one National League, and seven Dr. McKenna Cups. He is endlessly present and accountable, and he considers it an honor to manage the best players in his County of Tyrone.

Sport has helped Harte and millions of people heal and remain united through struggles that may otherwise remain unbearable. Admired by peers and former rivals for his motivational skills and management of players, Harte is an eternal optimist and believes there is another All Ireland - and most likely more - in the heart of his team.

For Mickey Harte, the GAA is all-encompassing “It’s not about just the sport, it’s about the community, and it’s about the support”. In recognition of his purposeful dedication and services to Gaelic football, Mr. Harte received an Honorary Doctorate at Queen's University Belfast in 2006.

The benefits of Mickey Harte’s gifts as a teacher, mentor, and manager have stretched far beyond the clubhouse and football pitch. He is an empathetic and committed advocate for uniting divided communities in Northern Ireland.

In Harte’s 2006 book, Presence is the Only Thing (in collaboration with Michael Foley), he states, “As you think, so shall you be. Don’t let the future be defined by circumstances or fear. That simple sentiment brings us all hope and illuminates a whole new set of possibilities for us.”

Also on the night, the IPC will be honoring Eugene O’Flaherty with the first ever Community Award. “Attorney Eugene L. O’Flaherty was appointed to the role of Corporation Counsel for the City of Boston in January 2014. Prior to his appointment, Attorney O’Flaherty served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives for seventeen years and has been practicing law for twenty years.” (cityofboston.gov)

For more information please visit www.ipcboston.org, email events@ipcboston.org, or call 617-265-5300.