BLOOMINGTON—This year marks the debut of the Valor Awards, a distinguished ceremony presented by the Exchange Club of Northside Bloomington in partnership with the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce.
The ceremony is dedicated to honoring the bravery and selflessness of our first responders—firefighters, law enforcement, dispatch, and correctional center officers. It is set to spotlight these everyday heroes.
The Valor Awards will recognize one individual from each sector for exemplary service. The event, proudly presented by Old National Bank and Weddle Brothers, will take place at the Monroe Convention Center on Wednesday, May 8th, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Nominations were solicited from Monroe County entities in four categories: law enforcement, fire, dispatch, and correctional center, with an outside selection committee tasked with reviewing submissions. The winners of each category will be announced during the awards presentation. The following individuals have been nominated in recognition of their outstanding service:
Law Enforcement
Fire Department
Dispatch
Correctional Center
The Exchange Club has a longstanding tradition of honoring law enforcement and firefighters. This year, in collaboration with the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, donations from the event will support Back the Line Monroe County. This 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization supports Monroe County’s first responders and their families when tragedy strikes.
“Our local first responders give their all to support our community,” says Robert Skelton, Vice President of Back the Line Monroe County. “It is our mission to make sure they receive all the support they need. It is an honor to be partnering with the Exchange Club of Northside Bloomington and the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce’s Valor Awards.”
Back the Line offers immediate monetary and emotional support to the surviving families of fallen or disabled Monroe County first responders. It also actively supports first responders’ mental health and morale throughout the year by providing access to peer support, chaplain services, social workers, grief counseling, and incident debriefings.
Eric Spoonmore, President & CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The Chamber is thrilled to join forces with the Exchange Club for this inaugural event. Recognizing the valor of our first responders not only celebrates their indispensable contributions to our community but also reaffirms the Chamber’s dedication to fostering a safe, supportive environment for all residents. We anticipate that the Valor Awards will become a hallmark of community pride and gratitude.”
Rollie Mason, President of the Exchange Club of Northside Bloomington, shared, “The Valor Awards signify a new chapter in our mission to honor those who serve with unyielding courage and commitment. By shining a light on their heroic deeds, we pay tribute to their sacrifices and inspire others to acknowledge the pivotal role first responders play in our daily lives. It’s a privilege to highlight their stories of bravery and perseverance.”
The Exchange Club’s tradition of honoring law enforcement and firefighters is a cornerstone of its mission. It celebrates the unwavering commitment and courage of those who ensure public safety and well-being. The annual recognition acts as a profound acknowledgment of these individuals’ bravery, sacrifice, and service. It underscores the community’s appreciation and respect for their roles, strengthening the bond between first responders and their communities.
The Valor Awards celebration will include time to network among attendees before the awards presentation. The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. and conclude at 1:00 p.m.
For more information about the Valor Awards or to purchase tickets to the event, contact The Chamber at 812-336‐3681 or visit the Chamber’s website at ChamberBloomington.org.
