Needham 13-year-old Maxwell Surprenantsounded proud — and busy — Friday as he watched guests arrive at The Blue Bunny Books & Toys in Dedham.

That’s where he hosted an event on behalf of his organization, Catching Joy, which promotes volunteerism among kids and teens. The 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. celebration had young people and their families decorating hearts for Refugees International, and collecting socks for Boston Health Care for the Homeless.

“I’m so excited,’’ Surprenantsaid, adding, “It’s free and fun for all.’’

Friday’s event at the bookstore had some high-profile support from Lady Gaga, who was in town to perform at Fenway Park over the weekend. Gaga’s organization, the Born This Way Foundation, named Surprenant the Boston-area winner of the Channel Kindness Award for his community service. He received a $500 prize and money to support Friday’s activity.

Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, founded in 2012, has a number of local connections. She launched it at Harvard, and the organization’s Kindness awards are given out in partnership with the Boston-based nonprofit Peace First.

Surprenant, who was also given tickets to Friday’s Gaga show, was happy to say he’s a fan of the pop star. He mentioned her work in communities, and also said he likes her music.

“She’s very talented,’’ he said, adding of her support for the event, “I’m so grateful.’’

Cynthia Germanotta, cofounder and president of Born This Way Foundation (and Gaga’s mom), couldn’t make it to town in time for the Dedham event but said — by phone, on an Amtrak train to Boston — that she hoped to meet Surprenant that night. She also said he’s one of the youngest winners of the prize.