Local Baha'i honored at statewide SOLV Awards Dinner

SOLV Green & Clean 2009

On October 30, SOLV honored Julie Rubenstein and Angie Derouchie, two members of the Inter-Religious Action Network (IAN) Executive Committee at their annual Awards Dinner. Julie Rubenstein, Vice Chair of the IAN Council (2009-2010) and Secretary of Washington County North Baha’i Community, has represented IAN at several SOLV project sites, welcoming participants and presenting the various activities in which IAN is involved. Julie also represents the Baha’i Community, which has been a consistent presence in SOLV activities over the years.

Julie, along with three Baha’is and four youth, joined volunteers of various faith groups October 10 for a SOLV Clean and Green event. Volunteers met from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Beacon Hill Wetlands to plant native shrubs and trees as part of an ongoing effort to restore the wetlands in Washington County.

Decked in boots, sturdy shoes and gloves volunteers braved the drizzly weather and enjoyed fellowship while they planted 109 shrubs and 3 trees. In a conversation with one of the volunteers, the Baha’is discovered that her father was a long-time Baha’i. Julie encourages everyone to join the SOLV Group in their next adventure. “You never know what will happen,” Julie says, smilingly as she rushes off to  another event.