Awards
The Albert Forte Memorial Award
Albert Forte was an iconic figure in the Washington community, a decorated World War II veteran who founded a successful real estate company and raised a family of seven. Renowned for his philanthropic spirit as well as his business acumen, Mr. Forte set his sights high and knew how to get things done. In 1999, Sr. Rose told him about the severe drought, poverty and disease that were stalking the village of Lare. Until his death in 2005, Albert Forte actively maintained his role of co-founder of the Mercy Center Foundation.
At our annual Gala, the Albert Forte Memorial Award is bestowed on an individual or organization who best exemplifies the spirit of a man who inspired others to follow his example, that of a generous, selfless volunteer.
Recipients of the Albert Forte Memorial Award
2008
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| Mary Hamm was a founding member, our first president and served on the Mercy Center Foundation Board from 2002 – 2007 |
2007
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| Odette Forte-Smith, DDS and Arlene Richards, MD have been generous donors; they have also served in Lare. Dr. Forte has volunteered in the dental clinic and Dr. Richards has traveled to Lare as a medical volunteer. | |
2006
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| Gary and Susan Hess have advanced the progress of MCF in the Washington area and on the ground in Kenya. |
2005
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| Gregory Wims is the founder of Victim’s Rights Foundation, an organization that has supported famine relief and site development in Lare. |
2004
Family of Albert Forte: In its inaugural year, the Albert Forte Memorial Award was presented to the Forte family in recognition of their spiritual and financial support.
