FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CORA Services Honors Philadelphia Bar Association, American Heritage Credit Union, Mary K. Doherty, and Asher Kemp at 2025 Love in Action Celebration
Philadelphia, PA — September 9, 2025– CORA Services is proud to announce the distinguished honorees of the 2025 Love in Action Celebration, taking place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia. Each year, CORA recognizes individuals and organizations who have selflessly dedicated their time, talent, voice, and resources to empowering families, transforming communities, and effecting positive and lasting change. Each honoree embodies the values of CORA’s Foundress, Sister Charity Kohl, by living the words “Love in Action” every day through their ongoing commitment and service to our community.
This year, CORA will honor the Philadelphia Bar Association, American Heritage Credit Union, and Asher Kemp, executive director of The Coalition of Culturally Competent Providers. In addition, the 2025 Legacy Award will be presented to Mary K. Doherty, compliance officer, in celebration of her extraordinary 50 years of service with CORA.
“Love in Action is more than a celebration—it is a reflection of the values that drive CORA every day,” said AnnMarie McDowell, president and CEO of CORA Services. “This year’s honorees represent the best of what it means to strengthen our communities, advocate for justice, and support children and families across the region. We are humbled to honor their lasting contributions.”
A Tradition of Honoring Community Leaders
Over the years, the Love in Action Celebration has paid tribute to remarkable leaders whose compassion and commitment have inspired others to make a difference. Past honorees include Senator Vincent Hughes, Sheryl Lee Ralph, The Preston & Steve Show, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, Esteban Vera Jr., Rob McElhenney and the McElhenney Family, the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, and CORA’s first Legacy Award recipient, Steve Keenan. This list represents only a fraction of the extraordinary individuals and organizations who have been honored through the years. A full list can be found at www.coraservices.org/love-in-action.
“Our past honorees remind us of the many different ways that Love in Action can be lived out in the world,” said Kate McConnell, chair of CORA’s Board of Directors. “From public servants to artists, educators to faith leaders, each has made a profound difference in the lives of children and families. It is an honor to continue this tradition in 2025 by recognizing this year’s inspiring honorees.”
Honoring a Lifetime of Service: Mary K. Doherty
The Legacy Award is presented to an individual whose long-standing dedication has left an indelible mark on CORA and the broader community. As CORA’s compliance officer, Mary has been a guiding force for half a century, ensuring the organization continues to operate with excellence, accountability, and compassion.
“Mary has been an incredible colleague, mentor, and friend,” said McDowell. “For over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her, witnessing firsthand her unwavering dedication to CORA’s mission. Mary’s work is often behind the scenes, but her impact is profound—she is truly the heart of CORA.”
About the Love in Action Celebration
The Love in Action Celebration is CORA’s signature annual event, gathering community leaders, partners, and supporters to honor those who embody CORA’s mission of empowering children, young people, and families to thrive through quality and compassionate service. Proceeds from the event directly support CORA’s wide range of services for youth and families throughout Greater Philadelphia.
CORA is grateful to Cigna, our Care Sponsor, and our Hope Sponsors, AmeriHealth Caritas and NSM Insurance Brokers for their partnership in supporting this year’s event.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or more information, please visit www.coraservices.org/love-in-action.
About CORA Services
CORA Services, a nonprofit organization headquartered in the Fox Chase section of Northeast Philadelphia, exists to help children, youth, and families experiencing academic, emotional, or social challenges. CORA provides an array of comprehensive professional services focused on prevention, intervention, remediation, and referral assistance. In partnership with more than 250 schools throughout Philadelphia and Camden, CORA provides counseling, education, occupational therapy, speech and language services, student assistance programs, psychology services, and truancy services. CORA also offers individual and family counseling, mental health treatment, substance use services, teen/young adult pregnancy services, intensive prevention services, early intervention, after-school and summer programs, and early childhood education. For more information, visit www.coraservices.org
