On Tuesday, Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman presented Golden Hoosier Awards to 26 senior citizens at the Indiana State Fair. The award was established by Lt. Gov. Skillman in collaboration with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration to acknowledge and recognize outstanding seniors who work hard to improve their communities, help others and serve as mentors and caregivers.
The Golden Hoosier Award is the highest honor bestowed on a senior in Indiana. Golden Hoosier Award recipients must be at least 65 years old and have contributed a minimum of three years of volunteer experience.
Greenwood resident Richard Small, 87, received a Golden Hoosier Award for his service to the community. Small was nominated by Debbie Young, Director of Volunteer Services at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Small has contributed over 5,000 volunteer hours throughout his 28 years of service at the museum.
“It is hard to measure the impact someone like Richard can make over the course of a lifetime,” said Young. “He sets an outstanding example to anyone, young or old, about what you can so with your life, even at 87 years of age.”
Richard currently volunteers in the museum’s “All Aboard” Exhibit where he portrays the conductor and teaches children about the Reuben Wells Steam Engine. In addition to The Children’s Museum, Small has volunteered at President Benjamin Harrison’s Home, The Indianapolis Zoo and the Indianapolis Senior Citizens Center.
“He has made a positive impact throughout the community, touching the lives of thousands,” said Young.
Small retired from Eli Lily as a toxicologist in 1983 and began volunteering in 1984. He and his wife, Marian, also enjoy traveling.
“I am appreciative of the countless years of service Richard has given to Indiana,” said State Rep. Woody Burton. “His commitment to volunteerism in our community is worthy of such a distinct recognition.”
