Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic Benefit Honors Local Supporters

Pulitzer Prize winning author and Scarsdale resident Sheryl WuDunn helped Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic (PPHP) raise more than $270,000 for the organization’s quality, affordable and non-judgmental health care and vital education programs in Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, and Suffolk counties.

WuDunn, who co-wrote the recently published book, A Path Appears, with her husband Nicholas Kristof, was the featured speaker at the October 23 Empower Luncheon at the Willow Ridge Country Club in Harrison, NY, co-chaired by PPHP Board Member Luz Shulgin of Patterson. WuDunn spoke to the more than 330 guests about the importance of family planning in breaking the cycle of poverty.

Judith and Roger Widmann of Larchmont were honored for their unwavering leadership and support for more than 25 years, including Ms. Widmann’s years as a PPHP volunteer and Board member.

PPHP also honored the Congregation of St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in White Plains as the community honoree. The Congregation was represented by Rev. Dr. Gawain de Leeuw and Board President Kathryn Wallace. For the past two years, the congregation chose PPHP as the beneficiary of its annual Mardi Gras fundraiser, and supported Rev. Dr. De Leeuw in his roles as a member of both the PPHP Board of Directors and the Planned Parenthood Federation of America Clergy Advocacy Board.

“We are grateful that PPHP enjoys the unwavering support of so many in our community,” PPHP President and CEO Reina Schiffrin said. “We are pleased to honor dedicated individuals like Judy and Roger Widmann and faith based organizations like St. Bart’s that are steadfast partners in our work.”

Co-chairing the event with Shulgin were Joan Rosen of Larchmont and Denise Lipson of Upper Grandview.

PPHP operates health centers in Brewster, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Spring Valley, White Plains, Yonkers, Huntington, Patchogue, Riverhead, Smithtown, and West Islip.

PHOTO: Empower Co-Chair Luz Shulgin/courtesy Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic