40th Anniversary

Ma Elena Gutierrez was recognized at our May 13 event at Northern Hollow Winery in Foley. She is a community organizer and immigrant rights advocate who has spent more than a decade building leadership and advancing justice across Central Minnesota. As the founder of Fe y Justicia (Faith and Justice), she empowers families, strengthens communities and creates pathways to dignity, equity and opportunity. Learn more about Ma Elena.

The Tusen Tack Programs volunteers were recognized at the Braham Event Center on June 10. For nearly 40 years, this dedicated group has built and sustained a vibrant community hub in Braham, creating spaces where people can connect, find support and feel a sense of belonging. Through their volunteer-driven efforts—from a thrift store and food shelf to community meals and the Braham Event Center—they meet essential needs while strengthening relationships across East Central Minnesota. Learn more about the Tusen Tack programs volunteers.

Heather Kliewer will be recognized on September 22 at Lupulin Brewing Company in Big Lake. As executive director of Community Aid of Elk River (CAER) Food Shelf, she provides steady, compassionate leadership, helping ensure neighbors can access food in a welcoming setting that preserves dignity and choice. A former volunteer for CAER, Heather brings firsthand understanding of the challenges families face and works closely with staff, volunteers and partners to strengthen support for the Elk River area. Learn more about Heather Kliewer.

Verna Toenyan will be recognized on Oct. 1 at Nature Link Resort in Nisswa. A former director of the Todd County Council on Aging, she is known for bringing people together to support seniors and neighbors in need. Her leadership helped spark Hilltop Regional Kitchen, now a regional effort delivering meals across Minnesota and strengthening care for older adults.