As communities across the country prepare to celebrate National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026)—an annual tradition established in 1974 to recognize the power of volunteer service—United Way of 1000 Lakes is proud to spotlight four individuals whose extraordinary commitment is helping shape a stronger, more connected region.

Observed each year during the third week of April, National Volunteer Week is both a celebration and a call to action. Throughout the month, nonprofits and community organizations honor volunteers by sharing stories, expressing gratitude, and highlighting the measurable impact of service. More than a moment of recognition, it is an opportunity to inspire continued engagement—inviting individuals to step forward and play a role in strengthening their communities.

The Volunteer of the Year Award is one way United Way lifts up that spirit of service. More than a recognition, it reflects a broader commitment to building a culture of volunteerism across the region—one where individuals are not only thanked, but connected, supported, and empowered to make a difference.

Through Volunteer Itasca, United Way’s volunteer engagement initiative, individuals are connected to local opportunities through an online portal while nonprofits are supported through the Volunteer Coordinators Network (VCN)—a collaborative that builds capacity, fosters peer learning, and strengthens volunteer programs across the region. Together, these efforts help ensure that every person has a pathway to get involved and that organizations are equipped to effectively engage those who step forward to serve.

“Volunteers are at the heart of a thriving community,” said Kim Brink Smith, United Way executive director. “Their leadership, compassion, and commitment ensure that critical programs and services continue to meet the needs of our region. This week is an opportunity to celebrate not only these four individuals, but the thousands of volunteers who show up every day to care for their neighbors and strengthen our community.”

Each spring, community members are invited to nominate individuals who go above and beyond in service to others. From a strong and inspiring pool of nominees, four finalists have been selected to advance in the award process: Isaac Meyer, Jane Ness, Jennifer Raushel, and Adrianne Reiners.

Isaac Meyer: Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids and Greenway

Isaac Meyer’s leadership has helped strengthen afterschool opportunities for youth and families through the Boys & Girls Club of Grand Rapids and Greenway—one of seven locations within Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland. As part of the founding group, he helped bring the Club to our community, where it has grown into a trusted staple—serving more than 170 enrolled members and reaching 400 youth through community outreach events last year.

From homework help and healthy snacks to positive play experiences, the Club is in session when school is out. Staff provides daily access to programs that support academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. Under Isaac’s leadership, these opportunities have only grown—through his service on the Community Advisory Board and as a multi-year board president, he has strengthened partnerships with schools and expanded access, ensuring more youth benefit from a safe, supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and build confidence. His impact extends beyond the local Club through his role on the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland Board of Directors, where he helps guide strategy and impact across northern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Isaac’s commitment to community extends well beyond the Club. He has volunteered with First  Call for Help for 12 years, including six years on the Finance Committee, served five years on the Itasca Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) Board, and supported the site development of the Free Range Food Co-op for four years—demonstrating a deep and sustained investment in strengthening the region.

Jane Ness: Grace House of Itasca County

Jane Ness brings dignity, compassion, and connection to her volunteer service at Grace House, Itasca County’s only homeless shelter serving more than 200 individuals and children each year. Guests are provided safe, stable shelter, daily meals, transportation support, and connections to resources that help them overcome barriers to housing stability.
As a dedicated volunteer, Jane prepares fresh breakfasts weekly, creating a warm and welcoming start to the day. Her consistency keeps the kitchen running smoothly, but it is her presence—grounded in kindness and respect—that leaves the greatest impact.

Jane’s commitment to service is strengthened by her employer, U.S. Bank, where community engagement is supported. While the company provides paid time for employees to volunteer, Jane has far exceeded those hours—contributing more than 70 hours at Grace House and extending her impact through additional support of local nonprofits.

Guided by the belief that “I can’t do everything, but I can do something,” Jane has come to know the individuals she serves—many navigating complex challenges, yet demonstrating resilience, courage, and generosity even in the face of adversity. She goes beyond preparing meals—building relationships, listening deeply, and helping create a space where people feel seen, valued, and respected.

Jane’s generosity reminds us that meaningful change often begins with showing up—and choosing, each day, to do something.

Jennifer Raushel: Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation

Jennifer Raushel lives out a deep and unwavering commitment to community—often without recognition, but always with intention.

In addition to her professional role at Members Cooperative Credit Union, Jennifer serves on the Board of Directors for the Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation (GRALF), the Hill City Area Community Fund, and Itasca Community Television (ICTV). Her commitment extends beyond the boardroom as an Ambassador for the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and through her involvement with UNBOUND – Collaboration Over Competition, United Way, and countless local events across Grand Rapids, Hill City, and Jacobson.
Whether serving meals at fundraisers, donating blood, or quietly assisting neighbors in need, Jennifer gives her time and energy with compassion and care. She is especially known for preparing home-cooked meals for individuals and families facing hardship—offering support in personal and meaningful ways.

Her impact is both heartfelt and consistent. For a recent milestone birthday, Jennifer requested donations to the Library Fund in lieu of gifts, helping restore funding for children’s programs impacted by budget cuts—an example of her selflessness and dedication to community.

Jennifer’s actions remind us that service can take many forms—and that even the quietest efforts can leave a lasting impact.

Adrianne Reiners: Free Range Food Co-op

Adrianne Reiners brings people together to support connection and community-driven change.

With more than seven years of volunteer service, Adrianne’s impact spans both formal organizations and grassroots efforts. She volunteers with Free Range Food Co-op—a community-owned grocery store initiative expanding access to locally sourced food and strengthening the region’s economy. She also serves on the Board of Directors for KAXE and actively supports United Way initiatives and events, including Day of Action.

Motivated by the question that keeps her up at night—“how do we create more resilient and self-sustaining communities?”—Adrianne is known for stepping forward to meet needs, often before they are fully defined.
Whether behind the scenes or out front rallying others, she brings energy, empathy, and action to everything she does. She helps bring people together and move ideas forward, including through her role in co-founding UNBOUND—Collaboration Over Competition, an initiative that brings women together to support one another and strengthen their communities.

The Free Range Food Co-op effort—fiscally sponsored by the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation—reflects this same commitment, creating local opportunity and building a shared space rooted in community.

Adrianne’s unwavering commitment makes her an invaluable asset to the community and a trusted leader among her peers.

The Volunteer of the Year will be selected through a live audience vote at United Way’s Community Celebration on May 21, 2026, from 4–7 p.m. at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids. Community members are invited to attend and join in honoring these finalists and the many volunteers who make this region stronger every day.

Admission is free, with a suggested donation that helps keep this celebration welcoming, inclusive, and rooted in meaningful action. To reserve seats, visit uwlakes.org/campaign-celebration or call 218-999-7570.

In recognition of National Volunteer Week, United Way encourages individuals to explore opportunities to get involved by visiting volunteer.uwlakes.org. From supporting youth and families to addressing hunger, housing, and health, there are countless ways to make a meaningful impact.

When people give their time and talent, entire communities thrive.