Meet the finalists: 2024 ELEVATE United Way Champion of the Year
The United Way Champion of the Year award will be given to a person who lends crucial support by encouraging their networks to get involved with United Way of Central Indiana. This honoree spearheads giving and volunteering initiatives and is the United Way ambassador for their organization.
This year’s finalists are dedicated advocates who educate and inspire.
We hope you will join us this month to celebrate Shannon, Alisha, Lamica and Sarah:
Shannon Britt, senior analyst at Eli Lilly and Company:
Shannon serves as a Connecting Hearts at Home ambassador and actively contributes to the United Way engagement committee. Her commitment extends further as an ambassador during the Lilly campaign. Shannon is fueled by a personal understanding, coming from a lower socioeconomic background and witnessing the cycle of poverty. Her dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty resonates through her actions, inspiring others to join in creating a more equitable and supportive Central Indiana. As an ambassador for positive change, she embodies the spirit of community, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those she touches. Shannon envisions a community where every individual has their basic needs met, free from the worries of survival.
Vote Shannon for People’s Choice.
Alisha Dick, senior engineer at Eli Lilly and Company:
Alisha is spearheading a remarkable surge in community engagement and giving. She took on the challenge of being the Eli Lilly United Way ambassador for the Indianapolis Parenteral Manufacturing site, rallying 1,300 people. Fueled by a passion for philanthropy and community service, Alisha not only tripled the results of the previous year's campaign but ignited a spirit of positive change at her site. Her journey, driven by purpose, showcases a lifelong commitment to serving others. Alisha envisions Central Indiana as a thriving, supportive community, and her impact resonates far beyond Eli Lilly.
Vote Alisha for People’s Choice.
Lamica Simmons, human resources director at Goelzer Inc:
Lamica is a dedicated advocate for positive change and the United Way champion at Goelzer Investment Management. Since 2016, Lamica's journey began at IndyVolved, where she passionately connected with United Way partner organizations, unraveling the intricate challenges faced by our community. Taking the spirit of service to her workplace, Lamica orchestrated successful giving campaigns, steering the collective efforts toward the impactful causes championed by United Way of Central Indiana. As a mentor to youth, Lamica's commitment goes beyond the office walls. Her role as a “big” with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana and as a Goelzer career mentor for Providence Cristo Rey High School's Corporate Work Study Program reflects her dedication to shaping the future. Lamica envisions a Central Indiana that remains rooted in Hoosier Hospitality, building upon the legacy of elders, fostering care among colleagues and nurturing the dreams of our children.
Vote Lamica for People’s Choice.
Sarah Thurman, learning and development senior manager at Pepper Construction:
Sarah is a beacon of philanthropy and community engagement in Central Indiana. With over 12 years devoted to the cause, Sarah has been the driving force as the United Way engagement coordinator, leading a dynamic committee to raise funds, engage the leadership team and foster community among employees. Beyond the workplace, she actively volunteers with organizations like Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, Little Red Door Cancer Agency, Rebuilding Together Indianapolis and her local church. Sarah's journey began as a participant in her company's annual campaign, where her passion for United Way's work ignited. Stepping into a leadership role, she embraced the challenge, orchestrating campaigns that not only raise funds but also educate and inspire. Her dedication extends beyond service work. It's about learning, understanding communities and identifying ways to be a lasting partner in fulfilling future needs.