Ruth Wilson, a Massapequa resident, was honored by The United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Inc. with the Shining Star Award at the 12th annual Dignitary Awards Luncheon held at the Carltun in East Meadow. This award recognizes caring individuals who are truly special friends of UCPN.
Bob McGuire, UCPN executive director, thanked Wilson and expressed his appreciation and gratitude for her dedicated service on behalf of all at the foundation.
executive director Bob McGuire.
In 1962, Wilson’s son Teddy was born and suffered an injury at birth. He received therapy at the United Cerebral Palsy Association and when he was five he was enrolled in the school program. In 1966, the UCPN Council of Auxiliaries started an auxiliary in Uniondale, of which Wilson was a charter member. The group held many fund raising events such as fashion shows, Chinese auctions and bowling dinners.
Wilson was elected to her permanent position as Treasurer, except for two years, 1977 and 1978, when she was president of the auxiliary. In 2006, the remaining Uniondale auxiliary members joined the Plainedge Auxiliary, an active group that to this day, works very hard to raise funds for UCPN. Wilson has been a member of the Council of Auxiliaries Executive Board since 1988 and is currently the treasurer. She has been involved in all of Council’s fundraising events.
In addition to her all of her hard work and dedication to UCPN, Wilson has been a member of the Uniondale/Merrick Senior Center for more than 20 years and just completed a three year term as president. Wilson is also a member of the Uniondale Homemakers who support UCPN by decorating trees for the annual Festival of Trees, attending fundraising events and volunteering when needed.
The UCPN has been assisting individuals with disabilities since 1948. Today, close to 2,000 children and adults participate in the various programs and services that this non-profit agency offers. For more information go to www.ucpn.org.
Officials at the Cerebral Palsy Foundation thank Ruth Wilson for continuing the ongoing effort to help people with the condition to challenge perception and achieve a greater good. The foundation believes all communities need a leader such as this Massapequan.
