CANTON – The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton is seeking nominations for individuals who make a difference in the community through grassroots efforts in pursuit of social justice, change, and a better community. The award was established in 1990 in memory of Rachel Somers Grant to honor those who work, as Rachel did, to make our community more humane and progressive. 

Rachel was a teacher and activist who lived in Canton from 1977 until her death in 1990. Each year since her passing the Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton has recognized an individual who is making a difference in the North Country. Recent past year recipients of the award include John Tenbusch for his commitment to improving low-cost housing in the North Country; Kathleen Stein for her nonpartisan work organizing the St. Lawrence League of Women Voters; Ginger Story-Welch for her environmental commitments and fostering democratic participation; and Eileen Raymond for her work with the Church of Larger Fellowship, and her educational leadership in South Africa, and political work on the local and national levels.

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. 

Nominations for the 2025 RSG Social Action Award should explain how the nominee exemplifies some of the following criteria: 

• Promotes local grassroots efforts as a means of achieving social change
• Advocates on behalf of social justice, especially for those who are marginalized in some way
• Is actively involved in a variety of local groups working for a better community
• Provides leadership in promoting social justice and change
• Organizes and supports community members in pursuit of social justice

Since 1990, over 30 people have been recognized for the award. For additional details visit: http://www.uucantonny.org/social-justice/rachel-somers-grant-social-action-award/.
All community members are invited to submit their nominations to The Social Action Team. The nominations should explain how the individual contributes to the work of social justice based on the award criteria. For additional details visit: http://www.uucantonny.org/social-justice/rachel-somers-grant-social-action-award/.

Nominations are due no later than Friday, April 4, 2025, and may be sent by email to: socialaction@uucantonny.org, or by mail to: Social Action Team, Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton 3 ½ East Main St., Canton NY 13617