Central Minnesota ‘Changemakers’ Recognized for Community Impact

I’ve always believed that every single person has the power to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether you choose to do something about it is up to you. However, it doesn’t matter who you are or what you do — if you share your time, your talent, or simply your heart, you’re leaving a positive mark on the world. So start sharing.

Maybe you’re someone who uses your gift for music or art to help others through hard times. Or maybe you open your home to young athletes from all over the country who come to Central Minnesota for sporting leagues. Perhaps you quietly show up at the animal shelter, scooping litter boxes and walking dogs so they get the love and care they need.

Whatever it is that you do — know this: WHAT YOU DO..MAKES A DIFFERENCE. There’s one local business that wants to make sure that message is loud and clear.

RECOGNIZING THOSE WHO CHOOSE TO GIVE

St. Cloud Financial Credit Union has launched something truly special: The ChangeMakers Awards. According to their website, President and CEO Jed Meyer first saw the need to celebrate local heroes 10 years ago — people who weren’t seeking attention, but who were quietly and consistently creating change in their communities. From that spark, The ChangeMakers Awards were born.

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CHANGEMAKER NOMINATIONS

Each year, people in Central Minnesota can nominate someone they know who’s making a real impact. The program shines a light on the good that often goes unnoticed, and that’s something our world could use a little more of right now.

MEET THE NOMINEES FOR 2025

JEFF BOIKE
If you know Jeff, you already know what kind of man he is — a devoted father, a coach, a business owner, and someone who puts his heart into everything he does. Jeff experienced an unimaginable tragedy in 2022 when he lost his son, Charlie, in a devastating car accident.

Amid his grief, Jeff and his wife channeled their pain into purpose. They created Skate Free Charlie, a movement to honor their son’s love of sports and community. Today, their vision is becoming a reality with Charlie’s Corner Sports Court, now under construction at the Omni Training Facility in Waite Park. The court will include an adaptive pickleball space, a wall ball area, and a hockey target shooting zone — all designed to be inclusive and accessible to everyone. It's more than a tribute; it's a gift to the community, built on love.

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ADRIAN WASHINGTON

Adrian is known for making people laugh — his stand-up comedy shows at the Red Carpet and beyond have brought joy to many. But off the stage, Adrian is doing work that’s changing lives.

He founded Suits for Seniors, a program that provides 10 graduating seniors with custom-tailored suits — a gesture that goes far beyond fabric. It’s about confidence, pride, and believing in their future.

Adrian also created Avengers for Autism, inspired by his own son, who is on the autism spectrum. Through this program, he rents out a movie theater and invites 50 kids to enjoy a sensory-friendly film experience. It’s a day where they can simply be themselves — and feel seen, safe, and celebrated.

JULIE LEIKVOLL

Julie’s story is one of quiet, consistent compassion. She’s the founder of Labor of Love MN, a program that has helped thousands of people get the essentials they need — from clothing to furniture and even artwork — at low or no cost.

Located at 113 4th Street NE in Little Falls, Labor of Love MN is more than a store; it’s a lifeline for people who need a little extra help. Julie’s work reminds us that dignity and kindness go hand in hand — and that no act of generosity is ever too small.

WHAT'S NEXT

According to an online article, these three finalists will be honored in August during a special ceremony. The first-place ChangeMaker will receive $3,000, and the other finalists will each receive $1,000 in recognition of their incredible work.

GET MORE DETAILS

Stay tuned for more details — and take a moment to think about the ChangeMakers in your life. Because when we lift each other up, we all rise together.