Meet the finalists: 2025 ELEVATE Volunteer of the Year
Presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis
The ELEVATE Volunteer of the Year award recognizes an exceptional young professional whose selfless dedication and service have left a lasting impact on Central Indiana. This person demonstrates outstanding leadership, commitment and contributions to a nonprofit organization.
This year, the finalists have gone above and beyond, dedicating their time and talents to support causes including neighborhood revitalization, hunger relief, education equity, cultural engagement and support for unhoused individuals, showcasing leadership and dedication across diverse causes.
Join us in February as we celebrate the incredible achievements of these five inspiring finalists:
Stephanie Marshall, president at Brendon Park Civic Association:
Stephanie has led impactful initiatives to improve her northeast Indianapolis neighborhood. She spearheaded efforts like monthly clean-ups, advocated for speed bumps on Moonlight Drive and secured grants for neighborhood entryway restorations. Under her leadership, the civic association hosted its first music festival, raising funds for scholarships and community projects. Additionally, she created the Devington Plaza Taskforce to revitalize a local plaza and involve residents in shaping its future. Stephanie's work has earned recognition, including the 2022 INRC Collaborative Spirit Award, and she is passionate about fostering a thriving, hopeful community where everyone can grow and succeed.
Vote Stephanie for People’s Choice.
Logan Metzger, biomedical engineer at ASG:
Logan has been a dedicated volunteer with Second Helpings since 2013, logging 810 hours to help address hunger and build self-sufficiency in Central Indiana. He co-founded the First Course young professionals group in 2016 to introduce others to philanthropy and hunger relief, and he served on the Advisory Council and Board of Directors, including chairing the Development Committee. Logan volunteers regularly at events like Corks & Forks and Tonic Ball, and he contributes to special projects and committees, always going the extra mile. His passion for community service and his infectious enthusiasm help strengthen Second Helpings' mission to support those in need. Logan’s vision for Central Indiana is a thriving, supportive community working together for a better future.
Vote Logan for People’s Choice.
Josie Pipkin, executive recruiting specialist at Indiana University:
Josie, a board member of the Starfish Initiative, has been dedicated to positively impacting the next generation of scholars since her time as a Starfish scholar in 2013. After graduating from Indiana University in 2021, she rejoined Starfish, leading efforts like securing their participation in the Orr Fellowship's Non-Profit Consulting project and encouraging other Orr fellows to volunteer. In 2022, Josie was invited to the board, where she has chaired the governance committee and brought structure and energy to the organization. Recently, she became a Starfish mentor, working one-on-one with a high school student to develop career readiness and college preparation. A certified Society for Human Resource Management professional and former Orr fellow, Josie is passionate about educational equity and creating opportunities for youth in Central Indiana. Her vision is to ensure continued access to quality education and meaningful career opportunities for young people.
Vote Josie for People’s Choice.
Matt Waweru, public relations specialist at Dittoe PR:
Matt has made a profound impact on the Indianapolis community through his consistent volunteer work and leadership roles. As co-chair of the IndyHub IndyVolved Planning Committee, he played a pivotal role in connecting over 100 nonprofits with thousands of young professionals eager to engage and give back to the city. His strategic planning and execution helped foster meaningful connections, empowering individuals to take on leadership roles and deepen their involvement. Matt's leadership also extended to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail Young Professionals Board, where he coordinated events, led meetings and strengthened the organization’s presence in the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Beyond these efforts, Matt is involved with the Indiana Sports Corp., volunteering at events like the WWE Royal Rumble and contributing to initiatives such as HeadCount and BC2M, which focus on voter registration and mental health for high school students. Matt is a graduate of the IndyHub 1828 Leadership Project. His commitment to improving the city and inspiring others to contribute exemplifies his belief in leaving the community better than he found it.
Vote Matt for People’s Choice.
Katie Wefler, payroll manager at Cunningham Restaurant Group:
Katie has dedicated over a decade to volunteering with Brightlane Learning (formerly School on Wheels), where she tutors unhoused students, providing academic, emotional and behavioral support. Starting in 2012, she worked with children at the Julian Center before shifting her focus to high school students at Lawrence North to address their specific needs, including credit recovery. Katie is a passionate advocate for education and homelessness awareness, using her social media and networks to raise awareness and funds for Brightlane, where she has been one of their top fundraisers. Her advocacy extends beyond tutoring, as she engages her employer, Cunningham Restaurant Group, to support Brightlane through in-kind donations and fundraising initiatives. In addition to her work with Brightlane, Katie volunteers with Meals on Wheels and at Wheeler Mission. Katie's professional career as a human resources leader, currently as payroll manager at Cunningham Restaurant Group, was recently recognized with a GEM Award for her excellence in performance. Her dedication to both her career and community reflects her belief in the power of consistency, advocacy, and support to create lasting change.