Awards

These esteemed awards recognizes individuals and companies that have made remarkable contributions to philanthropy within the Paynesville area. Whether through personal generosity, volunteerism, or professional expertise in guiding others toward philanthropic initiatives, these awardees embody a spirit of dedication and positive impact on our community.


Nominations for the 2025 Award in Philanthropy are now open and will be accepted until May 8, 2025. We encourage community members to nominate deserving individuals, couples or businesses whose philanthropic efforts have made a significant difference in the Paynesville area.

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Current Award Recipients

Emerging Leader Award

Grant Fuchs

Community Impact Award

Bill Virant

Innovation in Community Development Award

Crow River Trail Guards

Innovation in Community Development Award

Paynesville Farmers Market (Tiffany Farrier & Dick Geers)

Past Recipients

2024 – Paynesville Press – Community Impact Award, Joe Voss – Lifetime Achievement Award, Wally Thyen – Community Impact Award
2023 – Allison Janssen – Impact Award
2022 – Leo & Luella Louis – Philanthropy Award of Excellence
2016 – Dick Dillon – Award in Philanthropy