In the mid-1800s, Josiah Huntoon and William Van Rensalier, white and black together, were not only abolitionists helping escaping slaves, they broke racial barriers by living in the same neighborhood and being close friends all their lives. To honor his devoted friend, Huntoon gave Van Rensalier a house for a wedding gift in 1864- two short blocks near him.

They both showed us all how to live our entire lives with unswayable devotion to friendship beyond race. Huntoon and Van Rensalier personified the words “The Soul Has No Color”. Each generation of people across our nation are inspired to morally live these powerful words.

In keeping with abolitionists Huntoon and Van Rensalier’s indomitable beliefs, the HV UGRR Foundation honors both black and white men and women who consistently demonstrate this generation’s legacy through their steadfast deeds and accomplishments. Each year THE UGRR AWARDS FUNDRAISER DINNER will honor those who carry forward the exemplified dignity of the Huntoon and Van Rensalier legacy.