The Nantucket Dreamland named Laurie Richards as the recipient of its 2025 Fred Rogers Good Neighbor Award, which was presented during the non-profit performing arts center’s DreamBIG Gala on July 18, 2025.
This award honors an individual who embodies the kindness, humility, and selflessness of Fred Rogers, a beloved former Nantucket resident, and is presented to a community member whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the island.
Richards has been a year-round island resident for over 20 years, working as a professional photographer and owner of Pixel Perfect. Beyond her work creatively, she is known for her consistent commitment to community service on Nantucket. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she coordinated meal support for 24 local households and continues to be a reliable source of help, whether by organizing fundraisers, securing emergency housing, or connecting families with vital resources. She volunteers with The Warming Place, serves on the boards of Nantucket Education Trust and her neighborhood HOA, and is often found spreading everyday joy through small acts of kindness. Laurie’s work reflects the heart of Dreamland’s mission: building community through compassion and connection for the island.
“I can’t believe it,” Richards said. “I am so incredibly grateful to have landed in a place that appreciates and celebrates and values kindness. I am so lucky that I live here. It’s the greatest gift. This community of people has looked after me so much for so long.”
PAST AWARD RECIPIENTS
2024 Leah Bayer
2023 Dr. Timothy Lepore
