Be More Awards recognize volunteers

Ten local individuals and organizations received honors at the annual Be More Awards Tuesday night at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. The awards were given for local volunteerism and involvement.

IU graduate students Erikka Vaughn and Carl Darnell received the Be More Engaged Award for creating Free Homework Help Bethel at the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The organization provides weekly tutoring services in various subjects.
The award was presented by retired circuit-court judge Viola Taliaferro.

“I’m just thankful to the Lord to be a part of this volunteer opportunity,” Vaughn said. “I’m just always overwhelmed at how everyone comes together to make this work. I’m thankful for that.”

“Thank you so much,” Darnell said while accepting the award. “We want to give the glory and honor to God.”

After the event Vaughn said she felt humbled, inspired and grateful to attend the ceremony and receive an award.

IU Best Buddies received the Be More Involved award, given to a college student or organization. IU Dean of Students Harold “Pete” Goldsmith presented the award.

“This group provides amazing friendship and leadership opportunities for those with learning disabilities,” Goldsmith said. “Over the years, this group has impacted over 1,000 community members.”

The organization partners members with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More than 100 students are involved in Best Buddies.

Other winners included Susan Welsand from Volunteers in Tutoring Adult Learners, Patty Andrews of the First United Methodist Church Outreach Committee, Centerstone Recovery Engagement Center volunteers, Janice Clevenger with the Monroe County Civic Theater, Stone Belt meal delivery volunteers, Area 10 Agency on Aging, Yasmin Martinez of Key Club of Bloomington, Monroe County Circles Initiative Allies in the South Central Community Action Program and Helen Freeman with Meals on Wheels.

Awards were distributed by Mayor Mark Kruzan. Each of the award recipient’s volunteer organizations received $500.

The 77 nominees were nominated by other citizens or organizations through an application. A horse from the People and Animal Learning Services network was also nominated.

The event was sponsored by the City of Bloomington Volunteer Network, the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, the IU Credit Union, the United Way of Monroe County, the Bloomington Entertainment Arts District and WTIU Public Television.