By Joann McKinney and Scott Swingley—
MUNCIE, IN— – On April 15, 2025, the Interurban Room at the Horizon Convention Center was filled with gratitude and admiration as the community came together to celebrate the exemplary individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference in Delaware County. The annual V!VA (Very Important Volunteer Award) luncheon, a cherished tradition since its inception in 1993 by the Muncie Noon Rotary Club, in partnership with the Muncie Sunrise Rotary Club, once again shone a spotlight on the selfless efforts of volunteers who embody the spirit of service.
The V!VA Awards serve as a beacon of appreciation for those who generously give their time, talent, and resources to uplift others and enrich the fabric of our community.
Brian Beale, Kim Miller, Ian Robertson, and Dr. Joe Songer, were each honored with individual V!VA Awards, celebrating their tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to various causes, from community attractions and events, to animal welfare and healthcare and beyond. Their passion and selflessness serve as an inspiration to us all, reflecting the true essence of volunteerism.
The 2025 V!VA Organizational Award was presented to Hearts and Hands United of Delaware County and its Tools for School program which gave away nearly 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to Delaware County students in need last year alone. Hearts and Hands has been collecting and distributing school supplies since 2008 and with hundreds of volunteers exemplifies the collaborative spirit and compassionate initiatives present in our community.
Additionally, the prestigious Edmund F. Ball Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Linda Needham, honoring her lifelong dedication to service in our community and her influence on the betterment of our community. Her enduring legacy serves as a testament to continuous service and the transformative power of individual commitment.
The V!VA Awards luncheon was a poignant reminder of the extraordinary generosity and compassion that define Delaware County’s proud volunteer heritage. As we celebrate these remarkable individuals and organizations, we are reminded that it is through collective action and shared values that we truly make a difference in the lives of others.
About Rotary International
Rotary International was founded in 1905 in Chicago by Paul Harris and three business associates to “do good” in Chicago. Today, Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who come together to make positive, lasting change in communities at home and abroad. The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise. Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 35,000 clubs work together to: promote peace; fight disease; eradicate polio; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education; and grow local economies. The Rotary motto is “Service Above Self” based on the foundation of our values of service, fellowship, diversity, integrity, and leadership.
Muncie Rotary Club meets on Tuesdays at Noon at Minnetrista, 1200 North Minnetrista Parkway in Muncie, Indiana. Muncie Sunrise Rotary Club meets on Fridays at 7:00 A.M. at the Knights of Columbus, 3600 W. Purdue Avenue in Muncie, Indiana.
Joann McKinney is President Elect, Rotary Club of Muncie. Scott Swingley is President Elect, Muncie Sunrise Rotary Club.
