To everyone who attended our banquet, thank you for being part of the celebration. Your presence reminded us why we do this work, and how much we can accomplish when we come together.
Whether you have been involved with CUSH for many years or joined us for the first time, you are an important part of our community! Every person who shows up, speaks out, lends a hand, or supports our work helps move us closer to the world we want to build together.
Our banquet was more than an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments. It was a chance to reconnect with old friends, welcome new faces, and strengthen relationships, and remember why this work matters.
Celebrating Those Who Lead the Way
One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing four outstanding honorees whose dedication and service embody the spirit of CUSH.
Congratulations to Senator Robert W. Wirch, recipient of the 2026 Friends of CUSH Award!
For decades, Senator Wirch has been a steadfast champion of working families and Wisconsin communities. His commitment to justice, equity, and opportunity has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people.
The Friends of CUSH Award recognizes not only his years of public service, but also the friendship, support, and shared commitment to justice that have strengthened our work. We are proud to honor Senator Wirch and grateful for his enduring partnership.
Senator Robert Wirch receives Friends of CUSH Award
Congratulations to Marieta Huff, Janet Hogan, and Mary Zorn of Supporters of Shelter (SOS), recipients of the 2026 Advocacy Award!
Through their compassion, dedication, and hands-on service, Marieta, Janet, and Mary have demonstrated what it means to turn concern for our neighbors into meaningful action.
Their work with Supporters of Shelter helps connect people experiencing homelessness with essential resources and support. Working alongside community organizations, including Shalom Center, Kenosha Human Development Services, and CUSH’s Unhoused Neighbors Task Force, SOS helps address immediate needs while advocating for the dignity, safety, and stability every person deserves.
Their commitment reminds us that advocacy takes many forms. It can mean speaking up for those whose voices are too often overlooked, organizing neighbors, providing practical support, or simply showing up when someone needs help.
We are honored to recognize their work and celebrate the difference they continue to make in our community.
Marieta Huff, Janet Hogan, and Mary Zorn of Supporters of Shelter (SOS), recipients of the 2026 Advocacy Award
Inspired by Our Guest Speaker
We were also honored to welcome Dr. Robert Kraig, Executive Director of Citizen Action of Wisconsin, as our guest speaker.
Dr. Kraig shared his insights into the challenges and opportunities facing our communities and the importance of organizing, advocacy, and collective action. His leadership and experience offered an inspiring reminder that meaningful change is possible when people work together with determination and purpose.
Thank you, Dr. Kraig, for sharing your time, wisdom, and passion with us. Your words encouraged us to continue building the relationships and collective power necessary to create lasting change.
Dr. Robert Kraig, Executive Director of Citizen Action of Wisconsin
Capturing the Memories
A heartfelt thank-you to Veronica for capturing the spirit of the evening through her wonderful photography. These memories will help us celebrate this special night for years to come.
We invite everyone who attended to take a moment to look through the banquet photos, find your favorite memories, and share them with your friends and family. When you share your photos on social media, please tag CUSH and use #CelebratingTheWork so we can celebrate together and help spread the word about the incredible people and community that make our work possible.
The Work Continues
While our banquet was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate what we have accomplished, it also reminded us that there is still much work to be done.
CUSH brings people together across differences to address the challenges facing our neighbors and communities. Through our task forces and advocacy efforts, we work to advance economic justice, protect democracy, address climate change, support our LGBTQIA neighbors, and uphold the dignity of every person.
But this work cannot be accomplished by any one organization or individual alone.
It takes people who are willing to get involved, build relationships, share their experiences, and work alongside others toward a common purpose. It takes people who believe that a more just and compassionate community is possible—and who are willing to help make it happen.
You have a place in this work.
If you were inspired by our banquet, we invite you to take the next step and become involved with CUSH. Join one of our task forces, attend a meeting, volunteer your time, or learn more about the issues we are working to address.
Whether you are ready to take on a leadership role or simply want to learn more, we invite you to contact us at admin@cushkenosha.com
