STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The North Shore Rotary Club celebrated some of Staten Island’s most selfless community members during its annual Service Above Self Awards Night on Oct. 16 at LiGreci’s Staaten.
The event honored individuals whose quiet dedication and compassion have made a lasting difference in the borough.
This year’s honorees included Patricia Gentile, Ryan Melis, Anthony Navarino, and Diane Kramer and Helen Timari of The Foundation of Dignity.
“Since 2013, our mission with this award has been to shine a light on those who work quietly and humbly for the good of others,” said Bernie Moretti, chair of the Unsung Hero Awards Committee.
“This year’s recipients continue that tradition of extraordinary service, reminding us all of what it means to give without expectation,” Moretti added.
Gentile was recognized for continuing the charitable legacy of her late partner, Steven Barajas, through the Santa Cause initiative.
Each year, she organizes a Christmas celebration for children at P.S. 20, bringing joy and hope to local families with the support of friends, relatives and community partners.
L-r: Dennis Surmanek, Bernie Moretti, Anthony Navarino, Paul Giarlettta, Edwina, Paul ScamardellaCourtesy Frank Wilkinson
Melis, principal of New Ventures Charter School, was honored for his transformative leadership, which has helped the school become New York City’s top-performing transfer high school — giving students a second chance at success.
Navarino, a lifelong Staten Islander, was recognized for decades of community service and leadership, including work with Tunnel to Towers, the YMCA, Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, and youth sports programs. His tireless volunteerism has touched countless lives across the borough.
Founders Diane Kramer and Helen Timari of The Foundation of Dignity were commended for their compassionate work ensuring that indigent Staten Islanders — including stillborn infants — receive a proper burial.
Through their collaboration with the Richmond County Public Administrator’s Office, Staten Island remains the only borough in New York City to offer this unique and humane service.
“These honorees embody the very spirit of Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self,’” said Dennis Surmanek, president of the North Shore Rotary Club. “They don’t seek recognition, but their impact is undeniable. Staten Island is a better, kinder and stronger place because of them.”
L-r: Bernie Moretti, Helen Timari, Edwina Martin, Diane Kramer, and Dennis Surmanek.Courtesy Frank Wilkinson
Since its inception in 2013, the Unsung Heroes recognition has honored dozens of community members and organizations for their lasting contributions to Staten Island.
Past honorees include John J. Amodio, Carol Bullock, Aiman Youssef, Beatrice Victor, and the Diva for a Day Foundation.
Founded in 1957, the North Shore Rotary Club is part of Rotary International’s global network of 1.4 million volunteers.
The club supports youth programs, veterans, families in crisis, and local educational and cultural initiatives, as well as global causes such as clean water and disease prevention.
For more information, visit sinorthshorerotary.org or contact Frank Wilkinson at frankjwilkinson@gmail.com or (347) 322-9426.
L-r: Alex Ziselman, Bernie Morettu, Unsung Heroes Awards Chair, Edwina, Ryan Melis, Dennis Surmanek, North Shore Rotary Club President(Courtesy Frank Wilkinson)
Patricia Gentile, center, is flanked by her family and Bernie Moretti, and Dennis Surmanek, North Shore Rotary Club President.Courtesy Frank Wilkinson
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