Each year, Natick Center Associates, Inc. presents a "Heart of the Community" Award to an individual that has made an outstanding contribution to Natick. This year, Police Chief Nicholas Mabardy will receive the honor. Mabardy, who will retire from his post in late March, joined the force in 1968, according to a message from the associates. 

He will be honored at the Heart of the Community Award Dinner and fundraiser on March 27 at the Dolphin Seafood Restaurant. Mabardy has served as the executive officer, juvenile officer and was in charge of the community services division of the Natick Police Department. 

To purchase tickets for the dinner, call Margaret Sleeper at 508-650-8848 or e-mail info@natickcenter.org.