(ST. CLOUD, Minn.) - March 21, 2025 - Recently, the American Red Cross serving Northern and Central Minnesota celebrated the outstanding achievements of its volunteers at two separate events in Central Minnesota. The first celebration took place in Waite Park, MN, honoring volunteers from the broader Central Minnesota area, while a second event was held in Osakis. These recognition ceremonies highlighted the crucial role volunteers play in supporting various Red Cross initiatives, including disaster response, blood collection, and community preparedness programs.

"The smiles on the faces of our volunteers as they received their awards were truly heartwarming. These individuals represent the best of our community, selflessly giving their time and energy to make a difference in the lives of others," said Dan Williams, Executive Director for the American Red Cross serving Northern and Central Minnesota.

The events honored 255 combined years of service, with milestones ranging from one to forty years. Notably, volunteers Steve Hartman (Elk River, MN) and Deb Keiser (St. Cloud, MN, not pictured) were recognized for their extraordinary 35 and 40 years of service, respectively. Additionally, the celebrations acknowledged volunteers who collectively contributed an impressive 75,000 hours to to the mission of the Red Cross.

Also recognized were members of the Alexandria chapter of the Red Cross Gray Ladies, now known simply as "Gray Ladies"-a dedicated group of female volunteers who have served the American Red Cross for over 60 years, primarily supporting bloodmobile events. Plus, the Red Cross celebrated two Hometown Heroes: Sauk Rapids resident Curtis Ghylin for providing incredible support to local military members, veterans and their families through Red Cross Service to Armed Forces programs and Terry Sluss of St. Cloud for his decades of humanitarian service.

Kandiyohi County Emergency Management took home the award for Community Partner of the Year.

Nate Russell: Regional Communications Volunteer of the Year (Becker, MN) Nate Russell has been recognized for his critical role in Disaster Public Affairs. His expertise in media relations, story development, and deployment to national disasters including Iowa Floods and Hurricane Helene has made him a strong resource for the organization. Nate's ability to leverage his extensive disaster response experience has transformed him into an effective communicator, spokesperson, and storyteller for the Red Cross.

Ruth Steidl: Biomedical Volunteer of the Year (Alexandria, MN)
Ruth Steidl, the Blood Program Leader for Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria, has been honored for her exceptional organization of monthly blood drives. Her efficiency in coordinating volunteers and arranging logistics has significantly contributed to the success of blood collection efforts in the area.

Heather Mayer: Community Ambassador Award Volunteer of the Year (St. Cloud, MN)
Heather Mayer's dedication to working behind the scenes on events while excelling in her disaster roles has earned her this recognition. Her recent appointment to the Chapter Mission Committee showcases her versatility and commitment to the Red Cross mission.

Kathy Johnson: Disaster Cycle Services Volunteer of the Year (Osakis, MN)
Kathy Johnson's extensive experience and role model qualities have made her an invaluable asset to the organization. Her quick response to various community needs, from smoke detector installations to fire calls and multiple deployments, demonstrates her unwavering commitment to serving others.

Michael Hofmann: Exceptional Leadership Volunteer of the Year (Cold Spring, MN) 
Mike Hofmann's extraordinary contributions include stepping into the role of Community Disaster Program Manager during a critical period. His leadership in implementing region-wide Disaster Action Team (DAT) training models and involvement in numerous disaster responses have significantly strengthened the chapter's ability to deliver the Red Cross mission.

Joyce Beck: New Volunteer of the Year (Glenwood, MN) Joyce Beck has quickly become an essential part of the Red Cross team, participating in numerous home fire responses and the Smoke Alarm Program. Her deployment to the New Mexico Fires and her dedication to running crucial reports for the Deployment Team showcase her enthusiasm and quick learning ability.

The Red Cross encourages everyone interested in helping their neighbors in need to learn more about volunteer opportunities, by visiting RedCross.org/GiveTime.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to disaster victims; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Minnesota and Dakotas Region, comprising seven community chapters and five Blood Donation Centers, serves over 7.3 million people, including Indigenous nations and communities. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit  RedCross.org /mndaks.