Nominations open for annual United Way ELEVATE awards

United Way of Central Indiana’s ELEVATE awards, an annual fundraising event, will return in person next year. As such, nominations are now being accepted to recognize the region’s top young philanthropists.

Now in its fourth year, the event honors seven groups or individuals who are found to exemplify the leadership, philanthropy and ingenuity needed to move the community forward on social causes.

The event, this time with a Mardi Gras theme, will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26 at the Crane Bay Event Center, 551 W. Merrill St., Indianapolis.

Proceeds from ELEVATE will benefit United Way of Central Indiana’s Basic Needs Fund, which is aimed at ensuring those most in need have access to food, housing, transportation and health services.

Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased at www.uwci.org/elevate.

The categories are as follows:

Community Ambassador: Young professional with a passion for Central Indiana who is committed to raising awareness of local issues and opportunities that help their peers become more connected to the community and invested in its growth.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate: Small group or young professional who, either through their employment or as a volunteer, has committed to raising awareness and pushing forward a more diverse, equitable and inclusive Central Indiana.

Employee Resource Group: A corporate-supported employee/business resource group that developed and executed an impactful event, virtual experience, initiative or project that addresses a social issue important to others in their company and/or Central Indiana.

Nonprofit Employee presented by Katz, Sapper & Miller: Young professional nonprofit employee who makes exceptional contributions in the workplace and displays leadership qualities that go above and beyond their job responsibilities.

Volunteer: Young professional volunteer whose unselfish and dedicated service has made a meaningful and lasting impact in Central Indiana.

Volunteer Leadership: Young professional who served on a board of directors or committee for a community organization or foundation and has demonstrated outstanding service, leadership and commitment to its objectives.

People’s Choice: All ELEVATE finalists have the opportunity to be named the People’s Choice by the public voting for the person who most inspires them.

To nominate someone between the ages of 21 and 40 for the awards, persons can also visit uwci.org/elevate. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 18.