CWU To Honor Those Who Strive For Dignity

For All People

The Newtown Unit and members of the former Danbury Unit of Church Women United (CWU) will honor five individuals from the community who have shown extraordinary efforts on behalf of human rights on Sunday, March 6, at 3 pm, in the Cyrenius H. Booth Library Community Room.

The public is invited. There will be a short worship service with music, followed by the presentation of the national CWU awards.

The five individuals selected from community nominations are Richard Collins, an advocate for those with autism and an active member of Friends of Autistic People; Jim Maurer, executive director of Almost Home Adult Daycare LLC in Danbury; Annie Orr, one of the founders of Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Danbury (and who currently serves as its kitchen coordinator), as well as a founder of the overflow shelter at First Congregational Church of Danbury; Ann Puccini, director, Newtown Social Services; and Dr Z. Michael Taweh, founder, president and medical director of Kevin’s Community Center.

Each will receive a certificate and a pin.

The CWU Human Rights Celebration is an annual event to honor individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to the cause of human rights regardless of gender, faith affiliation, race, national origin, economic status, or mental abilities.

This is also the 70th anniversary of CWU, an international movement that began as a peace movement and has expanded to work for the rights of women and children worldwide. “Living Our Legacy…Driving the Movement” is the international theme for the 2011 celebration with emphasis on the history of CWU.

For additional information, contact Newtown Unit President Darlene Jackson at 203-426-5192 or rascaroo@gmail.com.