Across Indiana, young people are already serving, inspiring, and making real change in their hometowns, strengthening the communities we call home and carrying forward the cooperative spirit that unites us all.
For more than 15 years, the Youth Power and Hope Awards — led by Indiana Connection magazine — have honored outstanding fifth through eighth-grade students who demonstrate compassion, initiative, and commitment to community. This year’s winners continue that legacy of service, proving that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact.
Logan Conklin
Logan Conklin and his family are members of Clark County REMC and reside in Sellersburg. The son of Ken and Kelly Conklin, he is an eighth-grade student who demonstrates a remarkable heart for service and community.
Through Boy Scout Troop 10, Conklin has volunteered on a wide range of projects, including building pedestrian bridges, community gardens, and playgrounds, as well as collecting food for local pantries and assisting with public events. He also serves at St. John Paul II Catholic Church as an altar server and helps at church events throughout the year. Each Christmas, Conklin volunteers with the Salvation Army, giving his time to help families
in need.
Even when faced with challenges in school, Conklin remains dedicated to making a difference — proving that no obstacle can stand in the way of doing good. As he pursues a new diploma track designed for students with special needs, he looks forward to learning a skilled trade and continuing to make a difference in his community.
Diane Patton
Diane Patton and her family are members of Tipmont and live in Waynetown. The daughter of Lilly and Ryan Patton, she is a seventh-grade student who shares her love of animals with her community in inspiring ways.
Through 4-H and her family farm, Patton teaches others about goats, poultry, and other animals, focusing on proper care and safety. She presents at local events, schools, the Indiana School for the Blind, and community programs, giving hands-on experiences that educate and inspire students. Patton also mentors younger 4-H members through a dairy goat workshop she started with her sister and helps raise funds for her club through projects like Kiss
the Goat.
Regarding her community service, Patton said, “Helping others is the right thing to do, and even young people can make a difference.”
Alexandria Short
Alexandria Short is the daughter of Joy and Spencer Short of Convoy, Ohio, and her family are members of Paulding Putnam.
A seventh-grade student, Short has helped bring holiday cheer to thousands through the Van Wert 4-H Exchange Club’s Holiday Light Show. Since she was five years old, she has helped set up, operate, and maintain the displays, and now serves as the club reporter, sharing stories about the club’s activities.
Through her involvement, Short has gained leadership, teamwork, and technical skills while helping ensure the light show remains a cherished community tradition. Proceeds from the event support 4-H exchanges, local food pantries, hurricane relief efforts, and camp scholarships.
Regarding her community service, Short stated, “Giving back helps young people feel connected to the world we live in.”
Delaney Small
Delaney Small is the daughter of Whitney and Jason Small of Greenwood and is a member of JCREMC.
A sixth grader, Small, has turned a personal health challenge into a mission of kindness through her project, Laney’s Love.
After receiving a blood transfusion at age 10, Small felt called to give back. She began hosting community blood drives to raise awareness about the importance of donation in Indiana. Along with each drive, she collects funds to purchase toys for patients at Riley Children’s Hospital, a gesture inspired by the comfort she once received there. She also makes handmade bracelets with encouraging messages for blood donors.
Regarding her service, Small shared, “Helping others makes people feel part of a lasting impact. Even when you’re young, you can change someone’s life.”
Grace Westfall
Grace Westfall is the daughter of Krista and John Westfall of Zionsville and is a member of Boone Power. A sixth grader, Westfall leads with compassion and initiative in her school and community. She serves as student council president and participates in the Best Buddies Program, where she partners with a student with special needs and attends events to foster friendships and promote inclusion.
Westfall also founded Kids Helping Kids, a school club that supports the Isaiah 117 House of Boone County, which provides comfort to children entering foster care. She has helped meet the home’s needs and raise awareness through lemonade stands, donation drives, and community outreach. Alongside her family, Westfall volunteers regularly at Wheeler Mission, the Zionsville Food Pantry, and the Indiana Diaper Bank, all to ensure others feel supported and cared for.
Regarding her service, Westfall said, “It’s important for young people to help others because it teaches skills, builds empathy, and makes a difference.”
