WARSAW — In honor of the late Charlie Smith, a lifelong advocate for children in Kosciusko County and a longtime benefactor of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, the agency is proud to introduce the Charlie Smith Award – recognizing individuals who go above and beyond the call of excellence and exhibit an exceptional commitment to enriching the lives of other and improving the community.

With this award, Big Brothers Big Sisters hopes to not only commemorate the life and legacy of Charlie Smith, but also ensure that his extraordinary service will continue to benefit the children and the larger Kosciusko community for years to come.

A resident of Warsaw and an avid supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters and children in his community, Smith’s support of the agency contributed to a 100 percent increase in children served in Kosciusko County. His altruistic gifts and his strong leadership skills provided the agency with invaluable resources to make Big Brothers Big Sisters one of the top mentoring organizations in the Midwest. Most of all, his genuine, down-to-earth nature and his contagious smile brought new light to the countless organizations and individuals he helped, and his presence will be truly missed.

Smith’s wife, Ann, and his survived family will receive the award on his behalf at the Second Annual BIG Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at the Champagne Jam in Warsaw. Beginning at 5:30 pm, the evening will also feature dinner, a silent auction, a grand prize giveaway and an inspirational address of trials and triumph from former Ohio State University NCAA Champion and motivational speaker Maurice Clarett.

There is no fee to attend, but Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana hope individuals are inspired to make a difference in the lives of children in Kosciusko County through a gift of a monetary donation of $75 or more.

Reservations are due Wednesday, Nov. 4. To make reservations contact Trina Hoy at [email protected] or (574) 551-6386.