Meet the finalists: 2024 ELEVATE Nonprofit Employee of the Year, presented by Delta Faucet Company
The Nonprofit Employee of the Year award, presented by Delta Faucet Company, will be given to a young professional nonprofit employee who makes exceptional contributions in the workplace and displays leadership qualities that go above and beyond their job responsibilities.
This year’s finalists make a valuable impact on Central Indiana nonprofits, and we’re excited for you to do brunch with them this month.
Now, let’s meet our five finalists. Hop on in the ELEVATE limo and get to know Central Indiana’s very own prom court of philanthropy:
Amanda Boyd, manager of Achieving Inclusion and Meaning at New Hope of Indiana:
Amanda is working to create a more inclusive Central Indiana community through her work with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As the director of Achieving Inclusion and Meaning, a community-based day program, she finds opportunities for those she supports to volunteer, experience educational and cultural events, utilize public resources such as libraries and public transportation, and explore the Indianapolis area. She’s passionate about helping people see and meet their potential, and her innovative nature has led to the creation of many new programs that support individuals with disabilities in living their best lives.
Vote Amanda for People’s Choice.
Richard Dixon, program director at National Alliance on Mental Illness Indiana:
Richard is passionate about breaking the stigma around mental illness and is an advocate for equitable mental health resources for all. In his role at National Alliance on Mental Illness Indiana, he oversees many programs that provide resources and education on mental health. He also leads the annual NAMIWalks fundraiser, which has grown significantly over the last three years. In his free time, Richard enjoys volunteering his time distributing food, clothing, Thanksgiving meals, school supplies and toys to community members in need. He also serves on the CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) International Conference Planning Committee and the Indiana Suicide Prevention Network Advisory Council.
Vote Richard for People’s Choice.
Brenda Ewigleben, chief advancement officer at Little Red Door Cancer Agency:
From a young age, Brenda had a passion for giving back to others. She combined this passion with her gift of storytelling and working with numbers and now is responsible for raising needed funds for medically underserved cancer patients at Little Red Door Cancer Agency. In her free time, Brenda participates in the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She also volunteers her time at IndyHub helping young professionals get more involved in our community.
Vote Brenda for People’s Choice.
Delaina Lipsey, assistant vice president of programs at Noble, Inc.:
Delania is passionate about using tools and resources from the opportunities she has had to give back to those in our community who need it most. Through her role at Noble, she manages programs that expand opportunities and enhance quality of life for people with disabilities and their families. Delania previously mentored at-risk youth in juvenile detention and volunteered at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Muncie. She currently provides financial, employment and educational resources to those in need in her home community. Her vision for Central Indiana is for it to be a community where everyone is included and heard.
Vote Delania for People’s Choice.
Ephraim Sy Palmero III, assistant program officer at LISC Indianapolis:
Ephraim began his journey in public service and community development as an AmeriCorps VISTA member for the Indianapolis Office of Public Health and Safety. His experiences as a VISTA member reinforced his passion of serving his community. This passion drew him to his current position at LISC Indianapolis, which helps build resilient communities and provides financial support to underserved populations. He is a board member at the Center for Interfaith Cooperation and also volunteers his time at the Philippines Cultural Community Center. Additionally, he was a part of the IndyHub 1828 Leadership Project Class XII, where he was able to connect with many other young professionals and leaders across the city.