Verna Toenyan Named 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree
For decades, Verna Toenyan has helped turn community needs into practical solutions—bringing people together, finding resources and keeping projects moving to improve life for older adults and rural communities.
That commitment has earned Toenyan recognition as a 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree. She will receive the honor on Oct. 1 as part of the Initiative Foundation’s yearlong 40th anniversary celebration at Nature Link Resort in Nisswa.
The Good Neighbor Honor celebrates individuals whose quiet, steadfast service strengthens communities across Central Minnesota.
“Verna has an incredible ability to see what a community needs and then bring people together to make change happen,” said Brian Voerding, Initiative Foundation president. “Her passion comes from a deep love for people and place, and it shines through in all that she’s accomplished.”
Toenyan spent much of her career as director of the Todd County Council on Aging, advocating for older adults and helping communities address challenges ranging from food access and transportation to housing and social connection.
One of the most visible examples of her leadership is Hilltop Regional Kitchen in Eagle Bend. Toenyan helped turn the kitchen from an idea into reality, writing grants, rallying community support and bringing partners together.
Toenyan continues to work on community projects, including a long-running effort to transform additional space in the former Eagle Bend school into 23 units of affordable senior housing. She also is helping explore possibilities for the school’s former auditorium as a community gathering space.
Toenyan is one of four Good Neighbor Honorees recognized by the Initiative Foundation in 2026. Others include Ma Elena Gutierrez, whose Fe y Justicia nonprofit advocates for stronger, more inclusive communities across Central Minnesota; Tusen Tack volunteers, whose service sustains vital community resources in Braham; and Heather Kliewer, whose leadership at Community Aid of Elk River has strengthened food access and support for local families.
As part of their recognition, each honoree directs a $5,000 grant to a regional nonprofit of their choice.