JOHN BUTTS
CARIE’s Board and staff are privileged to honor John Butts with this year’s Spirit of CARIE Award. John’s abiding concern for the well-being of older adults is evidenced in the many ways he has supported CARIE’s work throughout the years. Recognized by communities across Philadelphia for his commitment of time and energy as well as his philanthropy, John has a long history of action in behalf of social justice issues including anti-racism and issues of diversity and inclusion affecting the LGBTQ community.
In addition to having served on CARIE’s Board, John has been a member of the Boards of Mercy Neighborhood Ministries of Philadelphia and Action Wellness. He serves as a facilitator for the Sisters of Mercy – Mercy Associate Program and volunteers for many of their outreach ministries and social justice activities. John’s focus on community service has extended as well to his work previously at Independence Blue Cross where he was one of four founding associates to help launch The Blue Crew, IBC’s Corporate Volunteer program and, currently, at PerformRx, where he is an active member of Care Crew, AmeriHealth Caritas Family of Companies Associate Volunteer Program.
In 2004, after participating for many years in Action Wellness’s Annual Dining Out for Life, John founded Cocktails for a Cause (formerly Dining ln), over the years raising a total of approximately $200,000 for Action Wellness.
As significant as John’s service activities are, he is perhaps even more appreciated for the way he inspires others to service. In John’s words, “We each have the opportunity to make a difference and change a life or many while we are here, but you have to take the opportunity.” John’s many awards and recognitions include IBC’s G. Fred DiBona, Jr. Leadership Award, Action Wellness Friend for Life award, PerformRx President’s Award of Excellence, the 2019 Citizens Award from the Philadelphia Inquirer and The Lenfest Institute’s Annual Corporate Philanthropy Conference and the 2019 LBGTQ Leadership Award from the National Diversity Council – Pennsylvania Chapter.
In recognition of the depth and generosity of his spirit, effort, passion, and support for social justice and for improving the lives of others, especially the vulnerable, CARIE is pleased to honor John C. Butts with the 2020 Spirit of CARIE Award.
