Bloomington, Indiana – A grassroots organization that stepped up during the harshest winter nights of 2024 has received one of the community’s highest honors. The Bloomington/Monroe County Human Rights Commission presented its 2025 Human Rights Award to the Bloomington Severe Winter Emergency Shelter (B-SWERS) at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, recognizing the group’s life-saving work and deep commitment to serving vulnerable residents.
Founded just last year, B-SWERS quickly became a critical safety net during extreme cold weather. By partnering with local churches and mobilizing a network of volunteers, the group opened emergency shelters when temperatures became dangerously low — providing warmth, safety, and compassion to those in need.
The annual award, established in 1997, honors individuals or organizations that make significant contributions to civil rights, human relations, or community civility in Bloomington and Monroe County. B-SWERS stood out among nominees for its swift and collaborative response during a particularly brutal winter season.
“This award is a testament to what people can do when they come together for a common good,” said Human Rights Commission Chair Ryne Shadday, who presented the honor during the August 6, 2025, council meeting. Representatives from B-SWERS were in attendance to accept the award.
The nomination for B-SWERS praised the group’s ability to coordinate volunteers, secure locations, and act quickly in the face of dangerous weather. Shelter space was made available at First United Methodist Church and First Christian Church, two downtown congregations that opened their doors to help the effort succeed.
Key individuals were also acknowledged, including Allie Jewell, Caleb Hoagland, the B-SWERS board of directors, and Reverends John Nyota and Sarah Lynne Gershon, along with many other volunteers who gave their time and energy throughout the winter.
City council members took turns offering personal thanks during the meeting, noting that the work done by B-SWERS filled a crucial gap in local services and quite literally saved lives.
As the community looks ahead to future winters, many are hopeful that the example set by B-SWERS will lead to even more coordinated support for residents facing housing insecurity. For now, though, the award serves as both recognition and gratitude.
The Human Rights Commission’s decision to honor B-SWERS highlights the growing importance of grassroots action and the role of ordinary citizens and faith communities in protecting human dignity.
“It’s not about recognition,” one B-SWERS volunteer shared after the ceremony. “It’s about making sure no one is left out in the cold.”
