For the project “Tourism Gives,” the Hamilton County Tourism staff identified nine organizations doing big things for the community. Hamilton County Tourism asked for nominations of particularly stellar volunteers – those who regularly go “above and beyond” what is asked of them. Next, Hamilton County Tourism staff put together special “staycation” packages with hotel, restaurant and attraction certificates from local tourism partners as a “thank you” for the giving these volunteers do every day. The catch? None of the volunteers had any prior knowledge of the covert giving operation.
Russ Mulholland and Nancy Thomas
Hamilton County Humane Society
Noblesville
Russ and Nancy dedicate hours each week to taking Hamilton County Humane Society dogs on walks, regardless of the weather. Despite having some physical limitations, Russ and Nancy have walked dogs in rain, sleet and snow, because the dogs need exercise regardless of the forecast. Together, Russ and Nancy have logged 412 hours walking dogs over the last four years.
Kim Dodson
Agape Therapeutic Riding Center
Cicero
Kim has been volunteering with Agape for more than a year, and volunteers multiple times each week. She helps with special events and pursues donations for the center. She has two children, one of whom has special needs. Both of Kim’s children ride at Agape. Kim is also involved with Special Olympics of Hamilton County and 4-H.
Julie Schrader
Prevail of Hamilton County
Noblesville
Julie has been giving her time to Prevail as a facilitator for adult sexual assault support groups for about a year. Julie believes in helping to empower those who’ve had power and control taken from them and giving these victims a voice. When she’s not volunteering, Julie is the HR manager for Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Another Broken Egg Café.
Chuck Layton
Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County
Noblesville
During his captivity as a prisoner of the Korean War, Chuck pledged to himself that when he returned home, he would seek out opportunities to serve others daily. He continues to help anyone in need more than 60 years later. Chuck assists Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County with transporting meals from the kitchen to the driver’s vehicles for delivery. He drives and delivers meals on an “as needed” basis and also trains new drivers.
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This year, Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. has launched its Hamilton Co. Tourism Give Back campaign where it hopes to recognize volunteers across Hamilton Co. For the campaign, Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. is asking Current readers to help spread the word about the Hamilton County Tourism Gives videos that share the stories of these amazing volunteers. They are asking readers to share photos, videos and posts about the campaign on social network pages. For more, visit VisitHamiltonCounty.com.
