Malden community leader Karen Lynch named 2024 Commonwealth Heroine by MCSW

Special to The Advocate

Representative Steven Ultrino (D-Malden) and his office celebrated Karen Lynch, who was named to the Commonwealth Heroine Class of 2024 of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW). Every year MCSW honors women who strive to make a difference and improve the lives of others within their community. This year the Class of 2024 Commonwealth Heroines comprises more than 125 women from across the Commonwealth who are leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy and more. These Commonwealth Heroines dedicate their time and efforts to protect and better the lives of those in need through extraordinary acts of service. While not always newsworthy, these women are leaders, mentors, volunteers and innovators whose work always make a difference in each of their own communities and often beyond.

Karen Lynch is a longtime activist fighting for social, environmental, health and housing justice and equity in Malden and across the state. She worked as an LPN and spent part of her career working with children with different abilities at their homes and schools. Karen also served as a foster parent for numerous children for over 30 years – both on a short-term emergency basis and as a permanent mentor and foster mother.

Now retired, Karen remains steadfast in her advocacy for economic security and healthcare equity for seniors across the Commonwealth through her work as a member of the Massachusetts Senior Action Council, where she also serves as the First Vice President for the State Executive Committee and served as the Metro North Chapter President for seven years. Today, Karen continues to volunteer actively for several local community organizations, including Bread of Life, Urban Media Arts and Friends of the Malden River, and she even serves on Malden’s Council on Aging. Her compassion, kindness and commitment to charity are qualities that inspire many in the Malden community and reflect the values of a true Commonwealth Heroine.

“I’m honored to nominate Karen Lynch as a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine,” said Representative Steve Ultrino (D-Malden). “Karen’s work for the Malden community over the years have not only been impactful but lifechanging for so many. Her dedication and grace have touched the lives of so many in Malden and beyond. I would like to congratulate her again on this well-deserved recognition and we are very fortunate to have Malden residents like her to who committed to making this city a better place for all.”

“I am deeply honored and excited to receive this recognition,” said Lynch. “I want to thank Representative Ultrino as well because if this award ceremony shows anything, it is that while our legislators are busy meeting the needs of their constituents, districts, and our Commonwealth, they always see how people in the community are helping others. It warms my heart to see all the women who are recognized alongside me, knowing that our work does not go unnoticed and we are all making an impact in our communities.”

“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.”

The MCSW celebrated the 21st Annual Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2024 on June 14 at the Massachusetts State House in the Gardner Auditorium. For additional information regarding this event, please contact MCSW at 617-626-6520 or email mcsw@mass.gov.