Special to the Patriot-Bridge
Each year the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities. Senator Sal DiDomenico nominated Charlestown native Crystal Galvin, who is the current Director of Community Services at the John F. Kennedy Family Service Center in Charlestown and has worked tirelessly in this role since 2014.
As the Charlestown representative for the Boston Family Engagement Network, Crystal has developed a tremendous team of parent partners who offer toddler skill-building playgroups, “Raising a Reader” workshops, and a New Mom support group. Crystal oversees a range of programs to promote social connections and physical/mental health among older adults. Throughout her work, Crystal has kept food at the heart of community programs led by the Kennedy Center whether that means grocery delivery to seniors, bringing fresh produce to the Farmers’ Market and the food pantry, or stocking bags of kid-friendly food to send home with children for school vacation weeks. Through early education, eldercare, and community services, Crystal helps uplift and support women across the Commonwealth.
Elected officials are encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service, who are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news. This year, the Class of 2024 Commonwealth Heroines comprises more than 124 women from across the state, leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more.
“It was an honor and privilege to nominate Crystal Galvin as a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine,” said Senator Sal DiDomenico. “Crystal has been a key member of the Kennedy Center team and Charlestown community for a decade. Her invaluable work and passion has helped countless families in need access early education and child care, elder care, nutritious foods, and essential antipoverty community services. We are lucky to have such a passionate and caring person working for people in our Charlestown community and I am proud to help give Crystal the recognition she does not ask for but fully deserves.”
“The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make all the difference in their communities,” said MCSW Chairwoman Dr. Sarah Glenn-Smith. “Thousands of women in every community across the Commonwealth perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators – they are the glue that keeps a community together.”