Special to the Times-Free Press
The Home for Little Wanderers, New England’s oldest child and family service agency, has appointed Rick Musiol as its new Chief External Affairs Officer. This newly created position underscores The Home’s commitment to innovation and its focus on strengthening its impact in the city by working closely with community partners, nonprofits, businesses, and policymakers. Musiol officially joined the agency on May 5, and will oversee government relations, external partnerships, and community engagement efforts.
“This role reflects our belief that meaningful, lasting change is rooted in community,” said Lesli Suggs, President and CEO of The Home. “Every day, our team brings compassion, dedication, and unwavering care to children and families—and that has transformed thousands of lives. As we look to the future, we know our impact grows even stronger when we join forces with others who share our vision. Rick’s leadership in advocacy, government relations, and community building will help us deepen our connections and expand what’s possible for the children and families we serve.”
Musiol brings a wealth of leadership experience in external affairs and civic engagement. He most recently served as Director of External Affairs and Community Engagement at Vineyard Offshore, a leading U.S. offshore wind developer. Previously, he held the role of Vice President of External Relations at the New England Aquarium, where his efforts earned the organization the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network. His background also includes serving as Senior Vice President and Regional Director of Public Affairs at Citizens Bank in New England and New York, as well as Chief of Staff to the President of the Massachusetts Senate.
“The Home for Little Wanderers has an incredible legacy of meeting children and families with compassion, dignity, and unwavering support. I’m honored to join an organization so deeply committed to strengthening communities and expanding opportunity for every child,” Musiol said. “I look forward to building meaningful partnerships that will amplify The Home’s impact and ensure every family has the resources and respect they deserve. Together, we can build a brighter and more hopeful future.”
Musiol holds a Master’s in Public Affairs from the University of Massachusetts Boston and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Stonehill College. He is also a graduate of the Young American Leaders Program at Harvard Business School and was named a Ten Outstanding Young Leaders (TOYL) awardee by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. He resides in Boston.
For over 200 years, The Home for Little Wanderers has helped build stable lives and hopeful tomorrows for children and their families. Our 30+ community-based and residential programs serve thousands of youth from birth to age 26. Many of these children have experienced abuse, neglect, trauma or a disrupted family life. As the oldest child welfare agency in America, we provide them with safe surroundings, permanent loving relationships and a secure path toward a better, brighter future. For more information, visit thehome.org.