United Way names this year’s top young philanthropists

INDIANAPOLIS – United Way of Central Indiana has named the seven winners of the ELEVATE awards, an annual event that recognizes the region’s top young philanthropists.

Winners were selected by a panel of eight judges and announced Saturday at the fourth annual awards, held at The Crane Bay Event Center in Indianapolis. ELEVATE also serves as a fundraiser for United Way’s Basic Needs Fund, which ensures Hoosiers in Central Indiana have access to food, housing, transportation and health services.

ELEVATE recognizes advocates, mentors and volunteers in our community between the ages of 21 and 40. This year’s finalists were chosen from more than 80 nominations.

All 18 ELEVATE finalists also were eligible to win the People’s Choice award, and members of the public voted for that winner.

The winners are:

Community Ambassador, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield: Jennifer Borchelt, Barnes & Thornburg

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate: Tiffany Hanson, LUNA Language Services

Employee Resource Group: Indiana Legal Services (Wellness Team)

Nonprofit Employee of the Year, presented by Katz, Sapper & Miller: Kelsey Kennedy, Trinity Haven

Volunteer of the Year, presented by Roche: Devina Jani, Indiana University School of Social Work, on behalf of DJ Center for Youth

Volunteer Leader of the Year, presented by BMO Harris Bank: Rufus Cochran, Roche, on behalf of Indiana Sciences/March for Science Indianapolis

People’s Choice: Michael Winborn, Children’s Bureau + Families First