Meet the finalists: 2025 ELEVATE Nonprofit Employee of the Year
Presented by Delta Faucet Company
The Nonprofit Employee of the Year Award, sponsored by Delta Faucet Company, recognizes a young professional in the nonprofit sector who demonstrates outstanding contributions in their role and exhibits leadership that goes above and beyond their job description.
This year’s finalists are making a significant impact on Central Indiana nonprofits, and we’re thrilled for you to join us in acknowledging and celebrating their efforts at United Way’s 7th annual ELEVATE on Feb. 22.
Now, let’s meet our five incredible finalists:
Alyssa Brelage, manager of the Longest Day at Alzheimer's Association of Greater Indiana:
Alyssa is a dedicated nonprofit leader making a profound impact on her community. As manager of The Longest Day for the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana, she draws inspiration from her grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer’s and her mother’s caregiving journey. Her efforts have propelled her chapter to become the No. 4 fundraiser nationwide and build one of the largest volunteer committees in the country. Alyssa also mentors high school students, empowering them to integrate philanthropy into their academic and extracurricular pursuits. A former Teach for America elementary school teacher, she demonstrated resilience during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to tutor students, fostering a love for learning. Alyssa’s passion, leadership and personal connection to her work make her a driving force for good in Central Indiana.
Vote Alyssa for People’s Choice.
David Carpenter, director of quality at Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana:
David exemplifies transformational leadership and a deep commitment to serving marginalized communities. As director of quality at Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana, David has advanced innovative programs, earned three promotions in four years, mentored six professionals and built university partnerships to foster education and growth. Drawing from their own recovery journey since 2015, David launched the NO Limits to Recovery pilot, funded by a $137,353 grant, to provide meals and support for people navigating the critical first 90 days of sobriety. Beyond work, David advocates for diversity, equity, inclusion and peer recovery, co-founding UIndy's Healing Hounds support group and leading community workshops. A certified peer recovery coach and master’s student in organizational development, David’s work inspires hope and creates pathways for recovery and growth.
Vote David for People’s Choice.
Sarah Daniel, founder and CEO at Unconditional:
Sarah has devoted her life to empowering women in the adult entertainment and sex industries through Unconditional, the nonprofit she founded in 2012. As CEO, she has transformed lives in Indianapolis by providing resources like financial aid, therapy, housing support, career development and a faith-driven, judgment-free community. Her efforts have helped 80% of clients transition to new employment and achieve lasting stability. Through innovative programs like The Bridge and securing over $1.5 million in funding, Sarah has expanded Unconditional's reach to serve over 250 women monthly with a $700,000 budget. Her work challenges societal stigmas, offering dignity, safety and opportunity to marginalized women.
Vote Sarah for People’s Choice.
McKenna Houston, development officer at STARTedUP Foundation:
McKenna Houston serves as the development officer at the STARTedUP Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering innovation and entrepreneurship in education. An alumna of the prestigious Orr Fellowship, which develops the next generation of business leaders, McKenna is deeply passionate about inspiring creativity and entrepreneurship in young minds. She has published a children’s book to spark curiosity about careers, led entrepreneurship initiatives for schools, developed her own app and mentored students to foster innovation and prepare them for a bright future.
Vote McKenna for People’s Choice.
Michelle Turchan, major gift officer and manager, individual giving at Riley Children’s Foundation:
Michelle Turchan is a dedicated nonprofit leader with nine years of experience at Riley Children’s Foundation, where she drives major gift fundraising and builds impactful programs like the Riley Philanthropy Council, engaging 60 volunteers statewide. Inspired by her personal connection to Riley, Michelle has transformed regional councils, shifted focus to individual giving and cultivated strong donor relationships. A recipient of the Ashley Louise Crouse Award for her work with IU Dance Marathon, she also volunteers as vice president of fundraising for HeavenEarth Spaces. Michelle is passionate about relationship-driven philanthropy and strategic innovation, aiming to inspire others to make a lasting community impact.