Region’s top young philanthropists recognized at United Way’s ELEVATE awards

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

A panel of five judges selected the winners, who were announced Saturday at ELEVATE, held at Mavris Arts & Event Center in Indianapolis.  

Now in its sixth year, the event recognizes advocates, leaders, nonprofit employees and volunteers between the ages of 21 and 40. ELEVATE also serves as a fundraiser for United Way’s basic needs initiatives, which help provide Hoosiers with food, housing, transportation and access to health care services. 

This year’s event raised over $60,000 and was presented by Old National Bank.  

The 2024 winners are: 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year, presented by Eli Lilly and Company: Ellise Smith 

Emerging Leader of the Year: Svitlana Ramer 

Nonprofit Employee of the Year, presented by Delta Faucet Company: Richard Dixon 

Volunteer of the Year: Ariel A. Relf 

United Way Champion of the Year: Lamica Simmons 

People’s Choice, presented by Katz, Sapper & Miller: Moussa Ibrahim