Cope Environmental Center is honoring four individuals, businesses and organizations at its Saturday, Aug. 22, gala.
Cope leaders say the winners’ passion, leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Centerville nonprofit’s mission.
The awards celebrate those who inspire others through environmental stewardship, volunteerism and community partnership.
Jim & Helen Cope Sustainability Award
Cope leaders said Penny Ausmus’ work inspiring decades of dedication and vision reflects the values of the center’s founders.
From leading the Centerville Green Club and launching workplace recycling programs to opening the East Central Indiana Recycling & Reuse Hub, Ausmus’ passion for sustainability has created a lasting impact.
Her connection to Cope runs deep, from helping fund solar panels to organizing the bottle cap collection that became part of Cope’s Living Building.
Volunteer of the Year
Since joining Cope’s board in 2022, Marcia Stiens has become a familiar face at countless events, workdays and volunteer projects including the gala, Family Maple Syrup Day, Fall Foliage 5K/10K, Cope Crew projects and representing Cope throughout the community.
Business Sustainability Award
Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Richmond has made sustainability a cornerstone of its mission by investing in energy and water efficiency, reducing waste and expanding the use of recyclable packaging across its operations.
Beyond its environmental efforts, Hill’s supports communities around the world through disaster relief, volunteer service and initiatives that improve the lives of both pets and people.
Excellence in Partnership Award
Collaboration with Indiana Audubon has strengthened Cope’s mission through conservation, education and community engagement.
Together they’ve expanded programs such as Birdathon and the Hummingbird Migration Celebration while providing educational resources, volunteer opportunities and conservation initiatives.
Reservations were requested by Aug. 1 for the event, called “The Great Outdoors: A Night in the Wild Where Jazz, Nature and Mystery Meet.” For more information, call 765-855-3188 or access visitcope.org.
A version of this article appeared in the August 5 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.