Recognizing Remarkable Service Across North Dakota at Non-Profit Awards Night

The spirit of generosity and community pride will be on full display in Williston as the 1st Annual Non-Profit Awards Night brings together nominees from across western North Dakota to celebrate service, compassion, and impact.

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Honoring Outstanding Nominees from Across Western North Dakota

This year’s nominees represent several counties throughout the region, including Williams County, McKenzie County, and Mountrail County—highlighting just how far-reaching these efforts are. From everyday acts of kindness to large-scale community initiatives, each nominee has played a role in making their communities stronger.

Individual nominees include:

• Marilyn McGinley
• Jean Lindvig
• Brandon Delvo
• Deborah Slais
• Lindsey Johnson
• Jocci Rice
• Jessie Veeder-Scofield
• Shyra Van Voorhis
• Jan Dodge
• Kiersten Gunnels
• Tarren Rehak
• Kevin Duttenhefner
• Keith Rossmiller

Honoring the Heart of North Dakota: Individuals and Organizations Making a Lasting Impact

These individuals have dedicated countless hours to volunteering, organizing, and leading efforts that benefit others across the region.

A number of organizations are also nominated for their contributions:

• Acts of Kindness (AOK)
• Coyote Clay Target League
• Van Hook Association
• Stone Foundation
• The Crazy Cat Crew
• Williams County 4-H
• Family Crisis Shelter
• St. Luke's Medical Center
• Opportunity Foundation
• Edgar M. Boyd Post 37 American Legion
• Dakota Family Solutions
• Watford City High School Student Council Annual Cultural Fair.

Together, these groups represent a wide range of services—from youth development and education to healthcare, crisis support, and veteran services.

Read More: Exciting News For Williston Students With New Degree Partnerships

Celebrating Excellence: Awards Recognizing Service, Leadership, and Community Impact

Throughout the evening, a variety of awards will be presented to honor excellence in different areas of service, including:

• NWNDCF’s Choice Award
• WCB Choice Award
• Go-Getter Award
• Rural Impact Award
• Unsung Hero Award
• Nonprofit Project Initiative of the Year
• Lifetime Service Award
• Trailblazer Award
• Nonprofit of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year

Each award highlights a unique aspect of community involvement and recognizes those who go above and beyond to make a difference.

The event will be held April 1st, 2026, at the Grand Williston Hotel and Event Center in Williston. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m., and the awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m. Nominees are encouraged to attend along with their friends and family for what promises to be a memorable and inspiring night.

Tickets are priced at $25 per person or $250 per table to encourage strong community participation. However, seating is limited and nearly sold out, so those interested in attending are encouraged to secure tickets soon. Please note that tickets are required for entry, and the event is open to guests 21 and older.

More than just an awards ceremony, this inaugural event is a celebration of the people and organizations who make western North Dakota a better place to live. Their dedication, often carried out quietly behind the scenes, deserves to be recognized—and this night ensures their efforts won’t go unnoticed.