NOVA announced that Julie Dugery, the organization’s coordinator of volunteers and community outreach, and NOVA Upstander Keira Ruch were recently honored at the YWCA Bucks County’s 31st annual Salute to Women Who Make a Difference Gala.
The annual event honors women in Bucks County who are active in the following areas: Advocacy & Civic Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility, Media & Journalism, Women’s Empowerment, Racial & Social Justice, and Community Engagement, as well as two young women for the organization’s #GirlPower award.
Dugery was honored in the Advocacy & Civic Engagement category. She has been with NOVA since 2005 and, during that time, has recruited and trained dozens of volunteers who provide support and advocacy to victims of sexual assault and other crimes on NOVA’s 24-hour Helpline, in local emergency rooms, and during police interviews and court proceedings. In addition, Dugery is the co-chair of NOVA’s Public Policy Committee, working together with board members, staff and community partners to advocate for the needs and rights of victims at the local, state and federal levels. She has also worked to increase NOVA’s visibility in Bucks County by representing the organization at many community events.
“Julie has worked tirelessly to educate about and advocate for the rights of crime victims in Bucks County,” said Angela M. McGettigan, director, operations and community engagement, NOVA. “The staff, board and volunteers at NOVA are so incredibly proud that Julie was honored by the YWCA Bucks County for her hard work and dedication to promoting positive change in her community by being selected as one of their annual Salute to Women Who Make a Difference honorees.”
Ruch, a Pennridge High School student and participant in NOVA’s Upstanders program, was selected as one of the YWCA Bucks County’s #GirlPower honorees. Ruch has participated in NOVA’s Upstander anti-bullying program since her sophomore year in high school. Participants in the program design and stage presentations for both elementary and middle school students about the importance of not engaging in bullying behavior and being an Upstander in the community. She also helped NOVA with its Upstander Day event by offering ideas and gaining support for the program from her classmates.
“Keira has been an instrumental part of our Encourage Upstanders program within her school district, and we are lucky to have her as a part of the team,” said Katie Sanford, high school primary prevention coordinator, NOVA. “Keira shows true dedication to making a difference in the world, and it is a great pleasure to see her honored and recognized for her hard work in her school and in the community.”
Those interested in learning more about NOVA’s volunteer opportunities can visit novabucks.org or contact Dugery at julied@novabucks.org or 215-343-6543.
