LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The finalists for the newly formed Lee Volunteer Awards have been announced, honoring local adults and youth who make a significant impact through volunteering in the Lima region.
The awards aim to continue the spirit of the Jefferson Awards, shining a spotlight on individuals who quietly make a difference in their communities. This year’s finalists include five adults and four youth.
Adult finalists are Rachel Barber of Wapakoneta, Haley Hemker of Lima, Kathleen Hilty of Kenton, Chad Hughes of Harrod, and Andrea Kin of Lima. Youth finalists are Ava Smallcombe of Bluffton, Braxton Suever of Delphos Jefferson, and Olivia Venturella and Addison Fay, both from Lima Central Catholic.
Chris Jackson, a representative of the Lee Volunteer Awards, encouraged the public to attend and recognize the work of volunteers.
“It’s important that the public comes out, because we want people to see the kind of people that are in our community, Allen County and surrounding communities that do a lot of volunteering. A lot of it goes unnoticed, because most of these people, when you talk to them, are just pretty quiet behind the scenes, but they’re powerful in doing things in their community,” Jackson said.
The top adult and youth volunteers will be announced at a community dinner on Wednesday, April 22, 6:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Civic Center. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through the United Way of Greater Lima.
