Newtown Man Among Those Honored For Leadership On Children’s Issues

Six Connecticut residents, including a Newtown man, and one Connecticut organization were recognized for their public leadership and effective advocacy on behalf of Connecticut’s children, youth and families at the 5th Annual First for Kids Awards ceremony December 15, hosted by Connecticut Voices for Children.

Connecticut Voices for Children, through this event, honors individuals in Connecticut whose work and commitment to the state’s young people serves as a model for all. The honorees are:

Public Service Award, George Coleman of Newtown resident, associate commissioner, Connecticut Department Of Education; Albert J. Solnit Leadership Award, US Senator Christopher Dodd of East Haddam; Legislative Leadership Award, State Representative Toni Walker of New Haven; Transformational Philanthropy Award, William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund of Hamden; Citizen Advocacy Award, Courtney and Jane Bourns of West Hartford; Connecticut Voices For Children Founders Award, Judith Solomon of West Hartford, senior policy fellow, Connecticut Voices for Children

Each recipient will be celebrated for making a difference in the quality of life of children in Connecticut and enriching the state. Previous honorees include Lt Governor M. Jodi Rell, Senate President Kevin Sullivan, Senator Toni Harp, and Representative Jack Thompson.

Connecticut Voices for Children is a research-based policy and advocacy organization committed to promoting leadership, policy change, and investment on behalf of all of Connecticut’s children and youth. For more information, call 203-498-4240 or visit www.ctkidslink.org.