UC  HYPE hosted the first ever Union County EPIC awards night on Friday, Sept. 2. The theme of the evening was "Extraordinary people inspiring community."

It was a formal event held at Simply Salem Barn in Liberty celebrating individuals and organizations who make an extraordinary impact on the community. 

Evening highlights included:
Formal attire;
Red carpet;
Social hour;
Dinner catered by Radfords;
Award ceremony.

Stamm Koechlein Family Foundation president Monica Koechlein delivered a powerful speech about community, touching everyone in the room.
After the event UC HYPE shared, "The room was packed with people who represent the best of humanity. The hearts, service and dedication were on full display!

Life gets hard and things get gloomy, yet there is so much goodwill, humility, and 'love thy neighbor' in our community!"

Award winners were: Organizing Committee of the Year - Live in Liberty, Small Business Social Responsibility Award - Kehila Coffee, Corporate Business Social Responsibility Award - Bath State Bank, Innovation Award - Union County Public Library, Biggest Heart Volunteer - Phyllis Hofer, Biggest Heart Organization - West College Corner Volunteer Fire Department, Board Member of the Year - Richard Worcester, Angel Award (Posthumous) - Britt Hensley , Elected Official of the Year - Tim Williams, Youth Volunteer - Chris Crews, Volunteer of the Year - Julie Jolliff.

"Our bodies may be tired but our hearts and cups are full," UC HYPE shared. "We love where we live! We love our communities."