A Promise to Mom: Reflections of an Annual Conference Session Member
Jeany Gewin has served as an Annual Conference lay member for over 20 years. She explains why she is following in her mother's footsteps and advocating for t…
Posted: July 15 2025 at 02:05 PM
The UVC board with the some of the 2024 Award winners.
United Voices for Children (UVC) is inviting nominations for its three annual awards.
These UVC Awards honor extraordinary volunteer service or advocacy efforts on behalf of children, youth and/or families throughout the Northern Illinois Conference. All United Methodists are encouraged to recognize who is doing this good work in your church or community, then nominate a deserving individual or a group.
These awards are:
- Bishop Jesse R. DeWitt Child Advocate Award
Bishop Jesse R. DeWitt (1980-1988) led by example as he participated, represented, and spoke out for children, youth, and families who did not have a voice. One of his greatest passions was speaking out to educate and inform local churches about legislation and issues impacting the lives of children. - Katherine B. Greene Child Worker Award
Katherine B. Greene was a past president and founding representative of United Voices for Children who put forth tremendous efforts in promoting child advocacy, working faithfully against child abuse advancing and supporting children with unmet needs across the Northern Illinois Conference. She reminded and challenged us to step up, step forth and speak out for children. - Rev. Margaret Ann Williams Service Award
Rev. Margaret Ann Williams, former Associate Executive of Church Relations at Marcy Newberry, served on the United Voices for Children Board of Directors for 33 years, including a term as president. Rev. Williams’ dedicated service has influenced the lives of children, the church, and the community for nearly 50 years. Award recipients model her “Joy of Serving” within the Northern Illinois Conference Community.
Any United Methodist member, congregation, or friend of UVC in Northern Illinois and the Chicagoland area can submit a nomination to receive one of these awards. Nominations are accepted from June to August.
The chosen awardees will be honored during the 2025 Raising Our Voices event on September 18 at Community UMC in Naperville. Learn more about the event here.
Information on past award winners is available here.
Please reach out to Nik Rana, UV Communication Coordinator with questions.