DORCHESTER — St. Mary’s Women and Children’s Center presented the first-ever John M. Corcoran Award for Excellence to Don Rodman, leading philanthropist and president of Rodman Ford. Rodman was honored for his commitment to local charities and dedication to the greater good of the Boston community.

The award was presented at the annual Diamonds of Dorchester fundraising gala on March 30, 2005 at the Seaport Hotel. Those in attendance included Archbishop Seán O’Malley and Boston mayor Thomas M. Menino. The Diamonds of Dorchester gala raises funds to support St. Mary’s Women and Children’s Center, a human-service organization that provides support to homeless, low-income, and at-risk families and children.

The award was established in the memory of John M. Corcoran, an accomplished real estate developer and ardent supporter of St. Mary’s. As a trustee and benefactor of the organization, Corcoran was a hands-on supporter who willingly shared his leadership and vision with the center.

A member of the Caritas Christi Health Care System, St. Mary’s Women and Children’s Center is a community-based, multi-service agency that provides residential, education, job training, and support services to women, pregnant and parenting teens, infants, and children.

“John Corcoran was an amazing individual, who inspired all of us with his vision and commitment to St. Mary’s,” said Judy Beckler, president of St. Mary’s. “While we dearly miss his presence, the Corcoran Award will pay tribute to his legacy of dedication to people most in need.”

Community leaders from across Greater Boston were invited to submit nominations for the first Corcoran Award. The nominations were then evaluated by a select group of individuals including members of the Corcoran family, professional colleagues, and friends of John Corcoran. Don Rodman was selected for his dedication, innovation, determination, and compassion in his commitment to a greater good or charitable cause.

As President of Rodman Ford, Lincoln-Mercury and president of the Rodman Health and Fitness Center, Rodman shown great support for charitable organizations in Greater Boston. He has served as chairman of the Col. Daniel Marr Boys and Girl’s Club of Dorchester and of Catholic Charities of Boston. He has also served as Vice President for the Red Auerbach Foundation and Director of Project Bread. In 1991, Rodman founded the Rodman Ride for Kids, a fundraising bike ride that has raised more than $17 million for organizations serving at-risk kids.