CT NOW believes it is important to recognize the work of individuals and community activists across Connecticut who are leaders for women’s rights. Each month, starting February 2010, CT NOW will highlight a local CT resident who has displayed extraordinary dedication to advancing women's rights.

Each winner will receive a certificate of appreciation and formal letter from the CT NOW Board of Directors. They will be featured on the CT NOW website and may even be highlighted in their local paper.

If you know someone who would be a great candidate for the

CT NOW Activist of the Month Award send your nomination to:

co-presidents@now-ct.org

Check back to this page each month to learn about our winners!

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For her dedication to the empowerment of women and children in CT. First off, Anessa was the first woman EVER to run for the office of Mayor in Putnam, CT. Additionally, she inspires us by her ability to bring good into the world. Anessa lost her husband, Edward John Haney, to a malignant brain tumor in April 2007 and decided to help others who also are struggling with a sick family member. She decided to raise bunnies and provide them at no cost to children who are dealing with the stress of a sick parent so that they will have something positive and comforting in their lives to help them cope. We are so inspired by Anessa and hope you are too. To read a great article about her click here.

Photo Credit: Rachel Christie of Sugarshots Photography

For her dedication and commitment to humanitarian causes. Julie, a 16 year old young woman from Glastonbury, was recently featured in a news story in the Hartford Courant. She has inspired many of us with her leadership in raising funds to support Haiti. She continues to organize a "Hope for Haiti" can drive and is using her musical talent to organize an upcoming benefit concert that will also support Haiti. We believe that one person can make a difference and Julie is a terrific example of how one individual can have a big impact not only on her local community but the world as well. Thank you for all you've done and continue to do! You are an inspiration to women (especially young women!) everywhere.

Photo credit: (BETTINA HANSEN / HARTFORD COURANT / May 11, 2010)

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For her leadership around protecting victims of sexual assault. During her time at CONNSACS, Laura was instrumental is passing Connecticut's EC in the ER bill and in the establishment of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner's program (just to name a few of her accomplishments). She also served as a vocal and active member of the Commission on the Standardization of the Collection of Evidence in Sexual Assault Investigations. Laura has continued advocating for women in the state since leaving CONNSACS and now lobbies at the capitol on a variety of important progressive issues.

Congrats Laura!

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In recognition of her leadership, dedication and passion for protecting and ensuring women’s access to vital reproductive health services.

Gretchen is the Community Organizer for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. She is a leader in the pro-choice community both in Connecticut and nationally. Above she is pictured with Connecticut Congressman Joe Courtney.