Former Grand Knight Frank DeNatale is celebrating one of the highest honors a local Knights of Columbus organization can achieve after leading the James V. Kavanaugh Council No. 5293 in Mastic to the prestigious Star Council Award.
Presented by the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council in Connecticut, the Star Award recognizes councils that excel in charitable service, community outreach, membership and patriotism. To earn the distinction, a council must meet rigorous performance standards in four core areas: charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.
“The award represents everything the Knights of Columbus stands for,” DeNatale said. “It’s really a reflection of the hard work of all our Brother Knights and our commitment to helping the community.”
During his tenure as Grand Knight, DeNatale oversaw a wide range of charitable programs benefiting residents throughout the Tri-Hamlet communities of Mastic, Mastic Beach and Shirley.
The council provides financial assistance to families facing hardships, helps residents pay essential expenses such as utility bills and transportation costs, supports local fire departments and ambulance districts, conducts food drives and contributes to organizations including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.
Among the council’s signature accomplishments was its annual free community barbecue, which was held for three consecutive years. The fully catered event served more than 200 residents at no cost, bringing neighbors together while reinforcing the council’s mission of community service.
“Probably what I’m most proud of is the charitable work,” DeNatale said. “Helping individuals who need assistance is what we’re all about.”
Founded in 1960, the James V. Kavanaugh Council was named in honor of one of its founding members, who was widely known for his charitable work throughout the area. The council continues to operate from its longtime headquarters in Mastic, where it hosts meetings and makes its hall available for community organizations and private events.
Although his term as Grand Knight has ended, DeNatale was recently elected to serve as a three-year trustee for the council. He said the organization’s mission remains unchanged.
“We’re here to help people,” he said. “That’s what Father McGivney envisioned when he founded the Knights of Columbus, and that’s what we continue to do today.”
For more information about the Kavanaugh Council, call (631) 281-4473 or visit them at 176 Madison Street in Mastic. The council welcomes new members and also rents its hall for private events and community functions.