Union County Seeks Nominations For 2027 Unity Achievement Awards

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County is seeking nominations for the 2027 Unity Achievement Awards, an annual recognition program led by the Union County Human Relations Commission.

The awards honor individuals, organizations and businesses in Union County that have distinguished themselves in human relations, human rights and honoring human dignity.

Nominees must live, work and/or go to school in Union County.

The commission said the awards recognize local "unsung heroes and role models" who support neighbors and inspire positive change in communities.

Award recipients may come from a range of fields, but the commission said they share a commitment to helping others, improving lives, uplifting the human spirit and strengthening relationships across families, schools, businesses and neighborhoods.

"We invite you to nominate your friend, neighbor, or co-worker who selflessly serves others without seeking recognition," said UCHRC Co-Chair Flor Gonzalez, who also serves as the president of the Latin American Coalition in Plainfield. "Especially in these turbulent times, it is vital to honor those who foster understanding, respect, and human dignity."

Award categories include corporate and business enterprises, nonprofit organizations, community organizations, individuals, law enforcement, public service, healthcare, veterans and military, the media, clergy, faith-based organizations, students, educators and special recognition.

The 2027 ceremony will mark the 24th year of the awards.

"These awards celebrate those who unite people in harmony and purpose, and strengthen us," said UCHRC Co-Chair Chanell Johnson, an Assistant Prosecutor for the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, which created the UCHRC in 1991. "The award recipients represent the very best of us here in Union County."

Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniels said the annual stories tied to the awards show how much one person can do.

"Each award is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make. The stories shared each year are deeply moving and inspirational, and demonstrate how simple acts can transform lives, and our world," Daniels said.

Nominations are open now and must be received by Thursday, Dec. 17.

Awards will be presented in May 2027. Nominations can be submitted online at www.ucnj.org/uchrc, by email to UCPO@UCPO.org with the subject line “UCHRC Nomination,” or by mail to the UCHRC c/o Union County Prosecutor’s Office, 32 Rahway Avenue, Elizabeth, New Jersey 07202.

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