Six Honored for Achievements in 2007
By: Gary Hollander, PhD - Posted on: 5/5/2008

Karen Fujikawa was honored on Monday, April 28, 2008 for her ongoing support and encouragement for LGBT youth in Wisconsin. Named Adult Ally of the Year, Karen’s participation in past Wisconsin Youth Health Leadership Institutes was highlighted. She joined five other individuals or organizations at a dinner hosted by Diverse and Resilient. Tim Michael of GSA for Safe Schools was honored as Youth Development Specialist of the year for his work with youth and GSA advisors in Madison. Two organizations were also honored: The Midwest Trans Youth Conference and PFLAG Milwaukee, as Youth Program of the Year and Community Partner of the Year respectively. Jay Botsford of the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center accepted the award for the Midwest Trans Youth Conference. Two youth were honored with Youth Leadership Awards for 2007. Candyce Phillips of Milwaukee was selected from several excellent nominees in the 19-24 year old category. Cassie Williamson of Madison was selected from among a strong group of nominees in the 14-18 year category. In accepting their awards, both young women spoke of their commitment and energy in the face of daunting odds. Both are very active in many other educational and community interests. Award event organizer, Rachel Federlin, said of the nominees, “Our biggest challenge in this year’s awards was limiting the number of people who could attend. Each award winner has a posse of supporters who cheer them on. These people are really well connected.”

The event was held at the Friends’ Meeting house in Milwaukee. Seventy-four guests celebrated with the award winners. Dinner was catered by The Knick, which also contributed their services. Each January nominees are sought for these awards called the Rainbow Alliance for Youth (or RAY) Awards. Check on this website to learn more about making nominations for 2008 awards which are announced in Spring 2009.

Cassie Williamson accepting her RAY Youth Award (14-18).	Candyce Phillips accepting the RAY Youth Award (18-24).	Karen Fujikawa accepting the RAY Adult Ally Award.	Tim Michael accepting the RAY Youth Development Specialist Award.
Jay Botsford accepting the RAY Youth Program Award on behalf of the Midwest Trans Youth Conference.	Georgia Henry accepting the Community Partner Award on behalf of PFLAG Milwaukee.	RAY Youth Leadership Award winners along with D&R Adult Leadership Award winners.