Henderson County Schools has recognized Millie Lotter of East Heights Elementary School as the 2025 FRYSC Volunteer of the Year and recipient of the FRYSC Bridges Over Barriers Best Individual Partner Award.
Lotter was presented with the award in Lexington this November at the statewide Family Resource and Youth Services Center Conference.
Family Resource Coordinator Melissa Walker, who nominated Millie for this award, shared, “Millie has helped design, shape, and launch the program that has blessed hundreds of students. For Millie, the work has never been about recognition. It has always been about loving children and serving others.”
Lotter began her teaching career in Indiana, where she taught for six years before dedicating 30 years to East Heights Elementary, including 19 years full-time and 11 years part-time, totaling 36 years in education.
In 2006, just three years after Henderson County Schools launched its weekend backpack program, Lotter stepped forward to support the program at East Heights and has had a lasting impact.
For the past 19 years, more than 800 weeks, she has faithfully organized volunteers, served as Advisory Chair, secured donations, shopped for groceries, packed bags, and ensured weekly distribution to students in need. Through her leadership and dedication, more than 600 students have received over 24,000 food bags, along with Christmas gifts and ongoing support.
Her husband, Dean, has faithfully served alongside her every step of the way. Together, with the support of approximately 25 families from Trinity Lutheran Church, they have shopped, packed, fundraised, and delivered food with unwavering commitment for nearly two decades. From grocery trips to Evansville to preparing their well-known potato soup fundraiser, their dedication has been a constant source of hope for East Heights families.
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