More than 100 health care professionals gathered at the Minneapolis Public Service Building on April 8 for the 2025 Local Health Heroes Awards, in honor of individuals and organizations making significant contributions to public health. Launched in 2011, the awards spotlight a wide range of public health initiatives — from addressing substance use to strengthening communities through equitable food access.
Hosted by the Minneapolis Health Department, Mayor Jacob Frey opened the event by applauding the honorees’ dedication to health equity across the city.
“The work that you are doing keeps people happier, keeps communities healthier, and ensures that — regardless of the ZIP code you grew up in, your race, your ethnicity, or your background — you have the opportunity to see success,” Frey said.
Among this year’s awardees was Marcus Kar, director of North Minneapolis programs at Youth Farm, recognized for his use of food as a vehicle for community development and youth empowerment.
“I grew up in Minneapolis, and I want to see a healthier, stronger Minneapolis community,” Kar said.
Patty Bowler, director of policy and community programs at the Health Department, called Kar’s work “a catalyst for social change, community engagement, and leadership development.”
Matt Toburen, executive director at the Aliveness Project, was honored for his work supporting people living with HIV and AIDS. Minneapolis City Councilmember Andrea Jenkins praised the organization’s role in addressing the HIV epidemic in Minneapolis.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, white Minnesotans make up the largest number of HIV cases statewide — 4,121, or 41%. However, African-born residents have the highest infection rate at 1,180 cases per 100,000 people, despite comprising just 17% of cases. U.S.-born Black Minnesotans follow with 733 cases per 100,000.
“Our goal is to end the HIV epidemic, and we need all of your support,” said Jamie McMurray, a representative of the Aliveness Project.
Sue Abderholden, executive director of NAMI Minnesota, was recognized for her advocacy in mental health and her role in developing the state’s School-Linked Mental Health Program. The initiative has grown from a small pilot into a nearly $20 million statewide program.
“We’ve eliminated all the barriers to accessing care,” Abderholden said, emphasizing the impact on students and families.
BrightSide Produce received recognition for improving food access through its corner store distribution program, which delivers fresh produce to more than 30 stores across Minneapolis food deserts.
“We believe that access to convenient, healthy and affordable food should be a basic right,” said BrightSide’s Justa Heinen-Kay.
The Avivo Street Outreach Team was honored for its work supporting unsheltered individuals with housing, mental health services, and substance use treatment.
“It’s time we close the ranks, dig in, and continue to serve the unsheltered,” said Cassandra Davis, the team’s program manager.
Nazir Khan, executive director of the Minnesota Environmental Justice Table, was recognized for his environmental advocacy, including efforts to shut down the Hennepin County Energy Recovery Center.
“Environmental justice is about protecting our communities and ensuring a healthy future for all,” Khan said, noting his personal commitment following the loss of his father due to radiation exposure.
The organization Colectiva Bilingüe was celebrated for creating bilingual environmental education programs at local elementary schools. “My grandson, Elija, has severe asthma that gets worse due to dust and the poor condition of our very old school building,” said Gloria Velasquez, a parent and school advocate.
“That’s what motivated me to start monitoring air quality at our school. Now, all five of our partner schools will have indoor and outdoor monitors.” Councilmember Katie Cashman praised Colectiva’s efforts, which include lessons on air quality, recycling, and green transportation.
The Health Heroes Awards serve as a reminder of the vital work being done to build a more equitable and healthy Minneapolis. “Thank you for making Minneapolis a better place for everyone,” Frey said.
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