Cathy Cortazzo, founder and former president of the Cranberry CUP, Community Uniting People, was honored Thursday by the Cranberry Township supervisors.

CRANBERRY TWP — Cranberry CUP founder and former president Cathy Cortazzo was honored at the township supervisors meeting Thursday night.

Cortazzo recently stepped down as chairman of the Cranberry CUP to focus on her family.

The founder of one of Cranberry's most celebrated nonprofits is stepping down, but not without some fanfare.

Cortazzo was honored by the Cranberry supervisors for 17 years of commitment to the community in front of a packed audience.

“She's given so much of her heart and time to the community,” said Cranberry CUP vice president Robin Shaffer. “She's a great example of what somebody with a vision can do.”

The supervisors passed a resolution recognizing Cortazzo for her leadership and service to the community as founder and chairman of the Cranberry CUP, Community Uniting People. A bench and plaque with her name will be placed in the new orchard and garden planned for Graham Park.

An emotional Cortazzo thanked the board and her supporters and reflected on nearly 18 years of service to the community.

“I have learned so much over the years from these wonderful, inspirational people and how strong and brave they are,” Cortazzo said. “I can't thank the community, the township, the wonderful people in this room and my family enough for supporting me.”

The Cranberry CUP began in 2000 as a friendly softball tournament dreamed up by Cortazzo at her neighborhood's homeowners' association meeting. The first year seven neighborhood teams competed in the tournament and golf outing, raising money for charity.

Since then the CUP has raised more than $1.7 million for local residents experiencing severe financial stress due to medical or other hardships, and added a 5K run/walk and kickoff party to its annual August weekend of events.