The Muslim women’s group RAHAMA and Assistant U. S. Attorney Richard Maigret have been selected to receive The Buffalo News Founders and Susan Still awards, presented by the Family Justice Center of Erie County.

Maigret and the seven members of RAHAMA — Resources and Help Against Marital Abuse—will receive the awards at the organization’s annual art show and auction “A New stArt”, at 5:30 p. m. Thursday in Asbury Hall at The Church, 342 Delaware Ave.

Carrie Irish, president of the Family Justice Center’s board of directors, said RAHAMA, which is also an Arabic word for “mercy,” is being recognized for giving Muslim women “a place to turn for hope and guidance when they need it most.”

RAHAMA, active since July 2006, spreads awareness about the problems of domestic violence and provides education on the rights of Muslim women. It works with social service and law enforcement agencies that deal with domestic violence to ensure that culturally appropriate support — emotionally and spiritually — is provided to Muslim domestic abuse victims.

Irish said Maigret is being honored because he “has dedicated his life to improving the safety and security of domestic abuse victims in our community by holding offenders accountable.”

She said that in 23 years with the U. S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, Maigret has prosecuted several firearm cases involving domestic violence and his conviction rate has resulted in many guns being removed from the streets. He also has lectured at training sessions for law enforcement and social service agencies on federal firearm statutes and orders of protection.

The Buffalo News Founder’s Award is given annually to an individual or organization in Erie County demonstrating innovation in the delivery of services for victims of domestic violence, or conducting education or outreach programs on the issue.

The Still Award goes to someone who has served or advocated for victims of domestic abuse. Still, an internationally known domestic violence survivor, has dedicated her life to being a spirited voice for all victims.

The Family Justice Center is a collaborative effort of the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Neighborhood Legal Services, Crisis Services, Haven House, Hispanics United of Buffalo, International Institute of Buffalo, Child Advocacy Center, Erie County Probation Department and University at Buffalo Department of Family Medicine.

Its offices and services are located at 237 Main St.