Cambridge Condo Leader Surprised for Years of Kindness

Janet Lavai has been the heartbeat of her Cambridge condo building for years, and she just got the surprise of a lifetime.

The quiet community champion organizes monthly dinners for up to 40 neighbors, hosts card and bingo nights, and coordinates the annual Christmas Drop-In. She does it all with humor and warmth, making sure everyone feels included.

But Janet doesn't stop at social events. She's led multiple donation campaigns for the local food bank, shelters, and the Humane Society, rallying her entire building to help those in need.

"I get quite overwhelmed when I'm there because you really see the people in need and I want to help those as much as I can," Janet said about delivering donations.

One grateful neighbor nominated her for CambridgeToday's Random Act of Kindness program. The team showed up at Janet's door with restaurant gift cards, flowers, and entertainment passes.

"I loved it! It was overwhelming," Janet said, clearly moved by the gesture.

Sunny's Take

What makes Janet special isn't just what she does. It's how she sees herself in the work.

"It's not that I do it alone," she said. "It's to get the whole condo involved in donating. They are so generous, the people here."

She credits her community for their caring hearts. She gets emotional seeing people in need and wants to help as much as possible.

"I'm grateful for what I have," Janet shared. "I always believe in promoting other people, others that do good for others."

Local businesses stepped up to make the surprise happen. Gaslight District, Arcady Ensemble, Drayton Entertainment, and JoRo Flowers donated to honor someone who gives so much.

Janet's dedication has created countless moments of connection and joy in her building, proving that one person's kindness can transform an entire community.