Remodeled Boston Home(11)

Lynn Dayton in her office.

Nourishing others has been a running theme throughout Lynn's career and life. As a chef and caterer, she created delicious food for others to savor. Now, this foodie is caretaker to a host of others through organizations in Massachusetts, where she resides with her husband, two sons, and a handful of shelter cats. "It is kind of like cooking," says Lynn of her charitable endeavors. "You know what you like and what works well together."

And just like a dinner menu that features filet mignon one night and lasagna another, Lynn's philanthropic schedule is varied. She devotes her time to a number of carefully chosen organizations. Her love for animals has led her to positions as board member for MSPCA-Angell (mspca.org), an organization that works to prevent animal cruelty, and Lovelane (lovelane.org), a riding program that offers horse therapy to children with special needs. She also serves on the board of trustees of WGBH, Boston's public radio and television stations.

"Philanthropy has always been a part of my life and family," says Lynn. "I often feel that I get back so much more than what I give."