Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota has recognized 88 honorees with the 2024 Spirit Award at a celebration on Aug. 15.

The honorees from Austin are:

Cierra Brown, Positive Support Specialist

LaRena Cooley, Positive Support Specialist

Katie Nagle, Specialized Community Supports

Melissa Albert, Positive Support Specialist

The award honors employees who demonstrate outstanding commitment and dedication to the vision and mission of the statewide organization. Honorees are nominated by their supervisors.

“Our Spirit Award honorees are inspiring. They bring passion to their work and a joy that lifts others around them,” said Patrick Thueson, president of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. “It’s a great privilege to recognize their remarkable service to others.”

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota began in 1865 when a Lutheran pastor and his congregation opened an orphanage for children near Red Wing in southeastern Minnesota. Today, with 2,500 employees and 10,000 volunteers, Lutheran Social Service supports one in 63 Minnesotans through services that inspire hope, change lives and build community.