The Community Foundation of Boone County is proud to announce Baili Hart of Whitestown as the recipient of the 2025 Aaron Stookey Spirit of Philanthropy Award. This annual honor recognizes an individual who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to service, generosity, and the betterment of Boone County—values that defined the late Aaron Stookey.
A lifelong Boone County resident, Baili is known for her selfless leadership and unwavering dedication to her community. She has been a member of the Lebanon Kiwanis Club for 13 years and currently serves as President. She serves as an advisor for the Lebanon Middle School Builder’s Club, helping to inspire the next generation of community leaders. Baili also plays key roles in the club’s signature events, acting as co-chair for both the annual Fishing Derby and the Salvation Army Bell Ringing Day, and serving as the Sponsorship Chair for the club’s annual Pancake Supper.
Beyond Kiwanis, Baili gives her time and talents to several other local organizations. She serves as Secretary on the Boone County Senior Services, Inc. Foundation Board, Secretary of Psi Iota Xi – Omega Chapter, and volunteers on the Witham Health Services Foundation Gala Committee.
As one nominator said, “Baili’s passion for Boone County is evident in all that she does. She is a humble leader who gives generously of her time, energy, and heart to causes that strengthen our community. Her selfless dedication to service truly embodies the legacy of Aaron Stookey and the spirit of philanthropy he championed. Her unwavering commitment to others is both admirable and inspiring, and her impact on Boone County is only beginning.”
In recognition of this award, Baili has directed the accompanying $500 grant to the Boone County Cancer Society, continuing her commitment to supporting local causes that matter deeply to the community.
BCCS serves cancer patients who are residents of Boone County. Through their Executive Director and Program Director, volunteers, and local fundraising, BCCS provides services, patient and family support, and educational programs within the community.
“Baili leads with compassion, purpose, and humility,” said Julie Reagan, CEO of the Community Foundation of Boone County. “Her service reflects the very spirit of Aaron Stookey—steadfast, community-focused, and rooted in a desire to lift others up. We are honored to recognize her contributions to Boone County.”
To learn more about Boone County Cancer Society, and how you can help support their mission, visit their website at https://www.boonecountycancersociety.org/.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF BOONE COUNTY
The Community Foundation of Boone County exists to unite people, organizations, and philanthropy to create a thriving community for all. Since 1991, its leaders have worked to empower and engage local communities to make a difference right here in Boone County, while also leading a vision to collaboratively address the root causes of challenges facing Boone County in diverse and equitable ways. The Community Foundation continues to invest in the people working to fill local needs and has granted more than $30 million to nonprofit organizations and programs working to solve critical challenges in Boone County. With nearly $35 million in net assets, the Community Foundation works with donors to create permanent funds for charitable giving, to strengthen Boone County for generations to come.