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The following was submitted by Austin Preparatory School:
Brady McLaren ’26, of Winchester, spends his Wednesday nights serving others.
The Austin Prep junior, who attends the independent Catholic school in Reading, travels each week with classmates to volunteer with The Movement Family, a grassroots nonprofit founded by Michael Gorman that has become a powerful presence in the Merrimack Valley.
Together with other students who participate throughout the year, they have built a consistent presence at The Movement Family Wednesday night dinners.
“The Movement Family has given me the opportunity to develop my commitment to service,” McLaren said. “Every Wednesday, my classmates and I head to the Lawrence bus stop, where we meet people facing all kinds of challenges — addiction, suffering and grief. What The Movement Family does so well is find the light in the middle of those challenges.”
Guided by Austin Prep Theology Department Chair Dustin Batista, students assist with organizing donations, distributing clothing, serving meals, and building relationships with those who attend.
From Grassroots Idea to weekly community lifeline
Founded in 2011, The Movement Family began as a small motivational running and conditioning group that met at the old bus loop at Methuen High School. With no funding or facility, members raised money through car washes, basketball tournaments, and yard sales to create opportunities for one another. Over time, the group evolved into a year-round support network rooted in accountability, belief, and brotherhood.
In 2018, after noticing individuals sleeping at the bus station, Michael Gorman and members of The Movement Family decided to act. What began with one table, a few chairs, and pizza inside the Buckley Transportation Center has grown into a weekly dinner that now serves approximately 100 people. The focus extends beyond food, emphasizing relationship-building and encouragement. The goal is to believe in people until they can believe in themselves again.
Building belonging
The weekly dinners are structured around dignity and belonging. Before the meal begins, everyone gathers in a circle for a motivational talk and prayer, reaffirming that no one is alone and that help is available.
“One part that always sticks out is when Michael says, ‘If you are in need of a hug come find any The Movement Family member and we will happily give you one,’” McLaren said.
Inside the dinner space, long tables allow guests to sit and eat together. Music plays throughout the evening. There are games, donated clothing, a “free hug” table, and a “Here to listen” station. Food donated by local restaurants and companies is served, and additional meals are prepared for guests to take with them.
Austin Prep students help run the donation table, making sure guests can find jackets, pants, and sweatshirts they need. The experience has reshaped students’ perspectives on service and gratitude.
“It’s helped me realize how much I take for granted, especially when someone is genuinely excited to receive something so simple,” McLaren said. “I hope more students get involved and stick with it not just for service hours, but for the sense of purpose that comes from showing up and helping others.”
Through weekly presence and strong student leadership, the partnership between Austin Prep in Reading and The Movement Family continues to provide meaningful support while shaping students like Brady McLaren through hands-on service and community engagement.
