STATEHOUSE (Dec. 16, 2022) – State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) recently presented Kevin Deary, retiring CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Elkhart County, with a Heart of a Hoosier Award honoring his longstanding commitment to local youth.
King said as CEO, Deary played an integral role in developing and transforming opportunities for youth involved with the Boys & Girls Club. For over 65 years, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County provided onsite programs for academic success, career development, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles to youth.
"Kevin had a tremendous impact on the lives of young Hoosiers in our area," King said. "It's great to look back on all the success of the Boys and Girls Club of Elkhart County. He has made such a positive impact and he truly embodies a heart of a Hoosier. We all wish him well in his retirement and look forward to him continuing his positive influence at the Community Foundation of Elkhart County."
More than 1,500 youth visit the Clubhouses each day. According to King, much of this success can be attributed to Deary who she says for 28 years now has grown the local club's presence, made it more feasible for youth to get involved, and empowered many children by helping them achieve their goals in and out of school.
Deary joins fellow Heart of a Hoosier Award recipients Brent Kattau and Joel Lederman of Elevation Park Model Company, Hawkins Water Tech, Bob Schrock with DJ Construction, retired Orchard View Elementary School resource officer Doug Edlund, retired educator Tim Luken from Middlebury Community Schools, and Elkhart's longest-serving councilmember Mary Olson, who was awarded posthumously. In 2022, King established the award to recognize and celebrate outstanding businesses and individuals that exemplify kindness, courage, thoughtfulness, and transformative involvement in northern Indiana. To nominate someone for a Heart of a Hoosier Award, visit King's website at in.gov/h49 and click on the "Nominate" tab.
-30-
State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
