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United Way honors more than 180 in Greater Lafayette

More than 180 people are receiving recognition for their volunteer efforts in the Great Lafayette community.

The United Way honored them during its 16th annual volunteer luncheon.

Purdue student Ryan Earl won the Marcile  Eddy Shining Light Award for his two years of service with the Lafayette Crisis Center.

He says a personal experience inspired him to get involved.

Four people shared the organization’s Golden Gift of Time award.  They are Jerry Weedon of Habitat for Humanity, Judy Johnson of the Lyn Treece Boys and Girls Club, and Jackie and Kenneth Paar of St. John’s Episcopal Church.

United Way CEO James Taylor says this year’s award winners were special because of their diversity and age ranges.

He says the 16th Volunteer Recognition Luncheon is not only to award those who are already helping but a chance for the organization to emphasize the importance of volunteering.

Sarah King of Project Sweet Peas won the Community Impact Award, Joanna Patterson won the Lafayette Youth Volunteer Citizenship Award, and Natasha Vintila was awarded the Tippecanoe Commissioner's Youth Community Service Award.