With the end of the year rapidly approaching, it seems like a good time to express appreciation for the many people who make the ACLU-PA’s work possible.  Today we want to recognize our volunteer chapters. There are nine chapters around the state who serve as our eyes and ears on the ground across the state.

Our chapters host events, support legislative efforts, table at community events, and alert staff to civil liberties problems in their area.  To recognize these hard working volunteers, the ACLU of Pennsylvania presented the second annual chapter awards to recognize those chapters and individuals who went above and beyond in 2012. Awards were presented to the winners at the December 8 state board meeting.

The Torchbearer Award is given to the chapter member who goes above and beyond for the mission of the ACLU.  This year we had two recipients – Carl Peridier (l) of the Philadelphia Chapter and Joe Welsh of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter (pictured with ACLU-PA Executive Director Reggie Shuford).

The Public Education Event Award went to the Central Chapter (State College area), for hosting Legislative Director Andy Hoover to speak on free speech issues at a brown bag lunch program (the first in a series).  Pictured: Central Chapter members Diane Mills and Betty Brendal with Reggie Shuford.

The Public Education Activity Award went to the Northwest Chapter (Erie area) its coalition building, events and organizing on voter ID.  Pictured: Northwest Chapter members Tammie Johnson and Jeanine McCreary with Reggie Shuford.

The best published letter to the editor on a civil liberties-related issue went to Lauri Lebo from the South Central Chapter for her two letters about voter ID.

The Development Award was given to the Central Susquehanna Chapter for its dedicated work to fundraising and development.

The Outstanding Leadership Award is given to a chapter member that dedicates their time and effort to support the goals of the ACLU. This year’s winner was David Young, Vice President of the Central Susquehanna Chapter, who was unable to attend the meeting in person.

Congrats to the winners, and thanks to all of our volunteers - we couldn't do it without you!