At AIM, we believe in celebrating individuals, volunteers, community partners, and service professionals who champion inclusion and enrich the lives of people withing our community.
A connected community depends on access and leadership. Through the Ruth Mossberg Recreation Scholarship, AIM provides direct financial assistance so cost never stands in the way of someone participating in recreation, leisure, and social programs. Alongside this fund, our Annual AIM Awards celebrate the devoted volunteers, self-advocates, care professionals, and local business partners whose dedication keeps inclusion at the heart of Kandiyohi County
Explore the resources below to download the scholarship application, nominate an inspiring leader or partner, or view our past award honorees.
Awarded to someone who has advocated for inclusion and/or independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or demonstrated leadership within the People First self-advocacy group.
Started in 2019
Named in honor of Mary Rhude, former Arc Kandiyohi County Executive Director
2026: Arlen Christianson
2025: Amy Zitzmann
2024: Ron Noyes
2023: Paula Oslund
2022: Amber Silva
2021: Lois Brown
2019: Willmar National Honor Society & Lyle Hovland
Volunteers are the heart and soul behind AIM’s programs! Awarded to someone who goes above and beyond to donate their time and help make AIM events and programs a success.
Named in honor of Anne Miller, former board member and dedicated People First volunteer.
2026: Sue Enstad
2025: Brittany Norris
2024: Mark & Lynn Stier
2023: Paula Bredberg
2022: Bev Schafer
2021: Nate Schueller
2019: Paula Nelson
2016: Brenda Simning
2015: Deb Friedrichs
Awarded to a direct care staff member, employment specialist, job coach, county worker, or any professional who excels in person-centered disability services in the community.
Named in honor of Ruth Mossberg. She was a long-time volunteer for Arc Rec & Leisure Committe.
2026: Amber Tallman
2025: Michelle Prahl
2024: Lori Grahn
2023: Mel Thorpe
2022: Lori Hebrink
2021: Denise Kohls
2019: Loren Holter
2016: Paula Oslund
2015: Michelle Prahl
Community partnerships are vital in helping a small nonprofit like AIM thrive! This award goes to a business or agency that has demonstrated dedication to AIM’s success. This support can be shown in such ways as hosting events, sponsorships, or volunteering.
Named in honor of our Amazing Community
2026: Walt’s Soft Car Wash
2025: Pizza Ranch
2024: Vinje Lutheran Church
2023: Alley on Ash
2022: Uptown Willmar
2021: Hanson Communications
2019: Bremer Bank
2016: Green Lake Lutheran Ministries
2015: ReYou Program, Rice Memorial Hospital
Awarded to a member for being an outstanding role model to their peers and to the community. This member has actively helped in the community, volunteered, assisted with fundraising, and more.
Started in 2019
Voted on each year by the People First Officers.
2026: Paige & Eric Wankerl
2025: Caleb Bedner
2024: Riana Halvorson
2023: Robert Gilland
2022: Lindsey Harms
2021: Brenda Simning
2019: Kari Benson
