Tuesday evening, Heading Home named ninth grader Ryan Ewing (above with his mother Jen and Heading Home executive director Tom Lorello) volunteer of the year for helping many homeless families get back on their feet. Ryan, who lives in Sudbury, is an experienced hand at Heading Home, the non-profit that finds permanent housing and provides other assistance to people in need. When he was in sixth grade, he helped two families move into new homes that Heading Home had secured for them. Over the years, he's moved many other families and also has done fundraising for the group. Ryan says it's "amazing" to realize that he can actually help change peoples' lives. It's also a kick to watch the reactions when families see their new digs.

The Davis Co CEO Jon Davis was also honored along with wife Margot for being a founding member and constant supporter of Heading Home. Jon and Margot, a therapist and social services expert, have spearheaded several moves of homeless families into permanent housing. Jon and Margot have acted as chairs for the annual spring gala, which usually attracts at least 750 commercial real estate industry pros and their significant others. Heading Home also honored Govenor Deval Patrick, the state's homeless advocate-in-chief, with the William E. "Bo" Holland Public Service Award.