Foundation Names Gutierrez as 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree
For more than a decade, Ma Elena Gutierrez has been a powerful force for justice and community in Central Minnesota—work that has earned her recognition as a 2026 Good Neighbor by the Initiative Foundation.
The Good Neighbor Honor celebrates individuals whose quiet, steadfast service strengthens communities across Central Minnesota. Honorees are recognized for consistently showing up for their neighbors, organizations and communities—often without seeking recognition. She is one of four regional leaders who will be honored in 2026 as part of the Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Gutierrez is a community organizer and immigrant rights advocate who has spent more than a decade building leadership and advancing justice for immigrant and worker communities. She is the founder and executive director of Fe y Justicia MN (Faith & Justice), a grassroots organization that provides leadership development, connects families with legal and health resources and advances worker and immigrant rights.
In addition to her community organizing, Gutierrez was appointed in 2025 to the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs and named a Bush Foundation Fellow, recognizing her as a visionary leader advancing equity and systemic change.
“Ma Elena embodies an unwavering commitment to justice, equal rights and dignity,” said Brian Voerding, Initiative Foundation president. “Her leadership has improved health and created opportunities for individuals and families, and her work continues to create lasting, meaningful change.”
Gutierrez will be formally recognized on May 13 at Foley’s Northern Hollow Winery during the first of four Initiative Foundation 40th anniversary celebrations. The event will include a tribute video sharing her story and impact. Thanks to generous support from Granite Partners, Gutierrez will direct a $5,000 grant to a nonprofit organization of her choice, further extending her impact in the community.
Event details and RSVP information available here: ifound.org/about/40th-year.
“I will accept the award on behalf of the community that motivates me every day, and whose power, strength and compassion shows up even in the most difficult times,” Gutierrez said.