WESTERVILLE, Ohio – The Otterbein University Athletic Department has been selected as an honorable mention winner of the 2013 NADIIIAA/Jostens Community Service Award, announced recently by the National Association of Division III Athletic Administrators.

The annual award recognizes schools across NCAA Division III that provide continuous support and partnership the local community through various projects and activities.

Led by the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Otterbein and its 550 student athletes have performed countless hours of volunteer work with various organizations, but have dedicated their main focus with the Westerville Area Resource Ministry (W.A.R.M.)

Otterbein student athletes have conducted a food drive and volunteered throughout the winter months to help organize and distribute nearly 8,000 bags of food in conjunction with W.A.R.M. This past year, SAAC teamed with a local business to ultimately donate over $2,000 that helped the organization reach its goal of feed 3,000 needy families during the holiday season.

To continue the ongoing relationship, the athletic department decided to take part in the 2013 W.A.R.M. Summer Lunch Program.

"As an athletics program, we are incredibly blessed to work with student athletes," Otterbein Director of Athletics Dawn Stewart said. "During our daily efforts, we realize that some kids do not have the same athletic opportunities as others, so volunteering time as a staff just made sense."

Otterbein coaches, staff and athletes helped local children enjoy their lunch and also spend time playing a variety of sports. The Cardinal staff adopted each Monday throughout the summer, spending a few hours each visit helping relieve the W.A.R.M counselors who dedicate their entire summer towards the program.

Otterbein and WA.R.M. plan to continue their partnership for years to come.