Each year, we recognize a member of the community who makes a difference in our community with the Rachel Somers Grant Social Action Award.
achel was a member of our church, a teacher, and activist who lived in Canton from 1977 until her death in 1990. She was involved in a variety of community groups, including the La Leche League, Friends of Choice, the Preschool Playgroup, our Social Action Committee, Work on Waste (an anti-incinerator, pro-recycling group), and a support group for women with cancer.
Rachel believed grassroots movements were an effective means of achieving change. She challenged the lack of responsiveness of elected officials on issues important to her community, and she was a strong advocate for causes affecting the welfare of women, families, and the environment. She had a gift for organizing diverse groups and a talent for gaining the respect of supporters and opponents alike.
The Rachel Somers Grant Social Action Award honors those who:
- promote local grassroots efforts as a means of achieving social change
- advocate on behalf of social justice, especially for those who are marginalized in some way
- are actively involved in a variety of local groups working for a better community
- provide leadership in promoting social justice and change
- organize and support community members in pursuit of social justice
Nominations
Each year we solicit nominations of individuals in our community who exemplify the characteristics Rachel showed in her life. Nominators should explain how the nominee exemplifies these characteristics and be sent to: Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton, 3 ½ East Main Street, Canton NY 13617.
Past Recipients
- Rick Tomlinson
- Luke Daley
- Sue Cypert
- Robin McClellan
- Max Coots
- Clover Forsythe
- Anne Monck
- Diane Exoo
- Lisa Bero & Kathy Medina
- Ellen Connett
- Natalie Smith
- Ann Heidenreich
- Phil Harnden
- Bryan Thompson
- Carlton Doane
- Paul Saint-Armand
- Ruth Beebe
- Carol Neubert
- Anne Marsh and Wade Wheelock
- Peter Van de Water
- Margaret Weitzman
- Chelle Lindahl and Melinda Ely
- Kelley Glasgow
- Heather Sullivan-Catlin
- Janet Green and Helen Hutchinson
- Carol Pynchon and Sara Schaff
- Ginger Story-Welch
- Holly Chambers and Alex Calk (youth recipient)
- Eileen Raymond
- Kathleen Stein
- Donna Seymour
- John Tenbusch
- Rose Rivezzi