Michelle Cook and Hoosier Park Named Volunteer/Business of the Year

United Way has been presenting the Volunteer of the Year award since 1985.   In addition to Cook, other past recipients include: Norma Schlossberg (1985), Frances Snell (1986), George Satterwhite (1987), Russell Johnson (1988), Robert Austin (1989), Sandy Volk (1990), David Bucove (1991), Tom McMahan (1992), Joe Cook (1993), George Graves (1994), Howard Myers (1995), Joyce Gaskill (1996), Dick Vannatta (1997), Rich  DeHaven (1998), Jim & Marilyn Ault (1999), Duane Hoak (2000), Keith Pitcher (2001), John May (2002), Jeff Jenness (2003), Matilda Barber (2004), Tom &  Bobbette Snyder (2005), Bob Schuler (2006), Keith Trent (2007), Dick May (2008) and Don Apple (2009).

This is the second year that United Way has recognized a Business of the Year. President Nancy Vaughan said, “Hoosier Park Racing Casino stands out among Madison County businesses this year because they went above and beyond in their support of United Way and the community. They truly demonstrated what it means to LIVE UNITED. We are pleased to recognize Hoosier Park Racing Casino as our 2010 Business of the year.”

Lead by Jean Crowe, Assistant Director of Human Resources, and a committee of volunteers Hoosier Park employees generated $6000 toward the annual campaign through special events that included a Chili Challenge in which departments squared off in a cook-off competition, LIVE UNITED talent show, and an employee rummage sale. Over 500 employees participated in the special events with all proceeds benefitting the United Way.

In addition to the events, 36% of the 1000 Hoosier Park employees, made a campaign contribution, giving nearly double from the previous year’s total. 

Michelle Cook will be given special recognition at the 2010 United Ways and Funds State Leaders Conference on April 13 at the Hilton Indianapolis North Hotel.  Hoosier Park and United Way will recognize employees in April at Hoosier Park.

Other volunteer recognition activities during the meeting included acknowledgment of retiring board members Sally DeVoe, Mayor Kris Ockomon and JoDean Washington.