The MRCI Belonging Everywhere Awards
The MRCI Belonging Everywhere Awards Luncheon is an annual celebration recognizing individuals, staff, and community partners who make belonging possible at home, in community, and at work, for people with disabilities across Minnesota.
Presented By:
Awards for Individuals Served by MRCI
Living with Purpose Award
The Living with Purpose Award honors a person supported by MRCI who demonstrates choice, independence, and self‑direction in their life, at home and in community.
2026 Honoree
Joseph Dee
Community Connector Award
The Community Connector Award Recognizes an individual who builds relationships, contributes to their community, and fosters belonging beyond formal services.
2026 Honoree
Andrew Rader
Achievement at Work Award
The Achievement at Work Award celebrates a meaningful employment achievement, growth milestone, or commitment to work as part of a balanced, fulfilling life.
2026 Honoree
Haley Knudtson
Resilience Award
The Resilience Award Recognizes an individual supported by MRCI who demonstrates determination, adaptability, and readiness to move forward on their employment and life goals.
Seanna Harris
Awards for Partners in serving MRCI's mission
Partner in Belonging Award
The Partner in Belonging Award recognizes an employer, or community partner who champions inclusion and opportunity across home, community, or work.
2026 Honoree
South Central Workforce Council
Heart of MRCI Award
The Heart of MRCI Award recognizes a staff member whose compassion, dedication, and consistency embody MRCI’s mission.
2026 Honoree
Leigh Hollenbeck
Innovation in Support Award
The Innovation in Support Award honors a staff member or team who developed creative, person‑centered solutions—through technology, transportation, or service design to support inclusion.
2026 Honoree
Tom Gengler
SouthPoint Financial Credit Union
The MRCI Belonging Everywhere Awards Luncheon Recap
Want to Learn More or Relive the Fun? Interested in getting to know this year’s recipients or want to revisit the highlights from a wonderful celebration? Stay tuned!
A full recap of the event—including stories, photos, and special moments—will be available right here in early October.
Nominate
Nominations for employers, staff, individuals & case managers are now closed, but will open again in March.
Thank you to everyone who nominated.
Sponsor
Sponsors make the difference in this event, consider your involvement today!