Homes For Heroes gives 2020 Hero Award to Elkhart teacher

ELKHART, Ind. – Homes for Heroes presented Anthony Venable with a surprise Hero Award Friday morning for his dedication to students, especially during COVID-19 shutdowns.

Venable is an 8th grade English teacher at Pierre Moran Middle School.

When his students transitioned to learn from home, he went the extra mile to make sure they knew how much they meant to him.

“I value relationships - and I value connecting with my students. I believe when they are on your side they will do anything for you and in turn I would do anything for me,” said Venable.

Venable dressed up in a gorilla costume and visited the home of each of his advisory class students to drop off a small gift, balloons, and a special thank you message.

When the fall semester started up, Venable maintained his energy levels to help students overcome the challenges of COVID.

“I am really thankful that we are still in school because seeing the kids faces - that’s what keeps me going- A lot of great kids,” said Venable.

When asked why he chose the gorilla costume, he said that it was the only one with a fan inside.