NORI hosts first-ever ‘Youth Awards’ to celebrate 30th anniversary

Nellie’s Outreach Resource Initiative, Inc. (NORI), celebrated its 30th Anniversary with the 2025 NORI Youth Awards, held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at the Four Points by Sheraton, 8900 N. Kildeer Ct. This event marked the 89th birthday of Nellie Weddle, founder and executive director, and spotlighted exceptional young people, youth organizations, and businesses making a difference in their communities. This gala was NORI’s largest annual fundraising event.

This year’s theme was “Celebrating 30 Years of Legacy, Impact and Service,” highlighting the achievements of NORI throughout the years. There were more than 250 people who gathered to honor NORI’s founder and this year’s 11 honorees, who were presented with items including laptop, scholarships and other items. The program master of ceremonies was TMJ4 reporter Gideon Verdin; the Keynote Speaker was Steven Weddle, former Managing Director for JP Morgan Asset Management; entertainment was provided by the Esquirers II, and featured a musical performance by Lois Cowser.

Honorees included Zora Penager Davidson, Ellament Tatum, Maranda Montgomery, Taylor Lipscomb, Eiziah Rashada, Dallas Johnson, Nyeir Bradley, Solomon Coggs-Butler, Tara Martin, Dennis Gaynor, Jr. and Patrice McCoy (named Promising Young Women)

This year’s corporate and community sponsors included Brewers Community Foundation, Milwaukee Community Journal, Sulton Law, Queen of MKE, Childcare Unlimited, Marti Milton Creations, and Media Partner TMJ4.