Originally founded in 1882 by a small group of Boston philanthropists (including Lina and Jacob Hecht), the YMHA was an avenue for young Jewish men to connect with others and form professional alliances. After moving to several locations in the South End, the YMHA followed the growing Jewish population and moved to Roxbury. In 1970, the Hecht House was sold to the Lena Park Housing Development Corporation, sponsored, and supported by Mayor Kevin White and then mayoral aide, Barney Frank. The Hecht House had developed into a community center with programs for both adults and children. As one of Boston’s leading women philanthropists of her day, Lina Frank Hecht (1848-1920) founded some of the earliest settlement houses in Boston. She was a catalyst, bringing together people in the community and encouraging many in their careers.
