LYNN — Last Thursday, Raymond Bastarache, past president of the Lynn Rotary Club and former Lynn deputy superintendent, was honored as the Community Unsung Hero at the Robert Wood Hero Memorial Ceremony at the Danversport Yacht Club.

“Several other Rotarians were also recognized at the ceremony attended by approximately 300,” according to a press release. 

The ceremony, organized by Rotary District 7930 and held annually for the past 10 years, recognizes Rotary members who go above and beyond the Rotary Motto of “Service Above Self.”

Bastarache has continued to go the extra mile for the club and the community. 

“He is a leader in contributing hours in volunteering at organizations such as: The Salvation Army, Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS), and My Brothers Table,” according to the press release. 

Bastarache is a major contributor to GLSS’s Brown Bag project. GLSS’s Chief Executive Officer Kathryn Burns said, “Without Ray’s volunteer leadership, our monthly Brown Bag food distribution efforts—that serve over 400 families—would not succeed.” 

Burns and GLSS are extremely grateful for his service and the service of other Rotary members. 

Kevin Johnson, the past Salvation Army commander, said, “Ray contributes countless hours in assisting the Army in providing food weekly and putting smiles on children’s faces during the annual Christmas party.” 

Bill Reilly, another past president of the Lynn Rotary Club, believes that Bastarache is someone who helps get others engaged in the community and involved with all of these service projects. He views Bastarache as a true leader with the events he helps run. 

“For 10 years, Ray has been going up to the Essex County House of Corrections on Monday nights and has led a prayer group with the inmates. He gives them some encouragement that better days are coming,” Reilly said. 

Bastarache remains a pillar of the Lynn Rotary Club and the community as he continues to provide assistance to all those in need.