STATEHOUSE (Nov. 25, 2025) – State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) recently presented Heart of 31 Awards to three Marion residents whose dedication and service continue to strengthen the community. Pam Leslie and Kelley Hochstetler were recognized Wednesday morning at Marion Health, while Brittney Shrout received her award Thursday at the Marion Animal Care and Control shelter.
Goss-Reaves said Leslie has been a longtime leader at Marion Health and a tireless advocate for community wellness. More than 20 years ago, she helped inspire the creation of Bridges to Health, a free clinic that has provided thousands of residents with essential care and medications. She continues to serve as the clinic's board secretary. Colleagues credit her vision and passion for helping shape the organization into a trusted resource for those in need.
Hochstetler has also served at Marion Health for many years and is deeply involved in supporting the local recovery community. As one of the early leaders behind Bridges to Health, she now serves as board chair and plays a key role in guiding the clinic’s mission. Goss-Reaves said Hochstetler's commitment to helping individuals overcome challenges and access quality care has made a lasting impact across Grant County.
Shrout, the manager of Marion Animal Care and Control, was honored for her extraordinary commitment to the well-being of local animals. She oversees the care of 100 to 200 animals at any given time and is known for responding at all hours to ensure pets are safe. A mother of two, she routinely brings her children along when emergencies arise, even on holidays. Shrout works alongside volunteers and family members who pitch in to support the shelter, and she continues to foster animals, run a pet food pantry, and lead community programs like “Loaning Love,” which pairs college students with shelter pets for a day.
"These women have made measurable contributions to the health, safety, and well-being of our community," Goss-Reaves said. "Their commitment reflects exactly why I created the Heart of 31 Award, and I’m glad this recognition highlights the work they do every day for House District 31."
This round of Heart of 31 honorees came from community nominations. Pam Leslie and Kelley Hochstetler were nominated by Greg Maynard, and Brittney Shrout was nominated by Wanda Williams Overman.
Goss-Reaves encourages residents of House District 31 to nominate deserving individuals who make a positive difference in our community. Nominations for the Heart of 31 Award can be submitted at in.gov/h31 under the "Heart of 31 Award" tab. Nominees must reside in House District 31. To confirm eligibility, visit iga.in.gov and use the "Find Your Legislator" tool.
Award recipients will receive a special certificate and be recognized in Goss-Reaves' official media channels.
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State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) represents House District 31,
which includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION 1: State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) (center) presents her Heart of 31 Award to Kelley Hochstetler (left) and Pam Leslie (right) during a ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, at Marion Health.
PHOTO CAPTION 2: State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) (left) presents her Heart of 31 Award to Brittney Shrout (right), manager of Marion Animal Care and Control, during a visit to the shelter on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025.
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