This last week, I was fortunate and grateful to be a part of a luncheon put on by the Brown County United Way. At the last minute, I was asked by Lisa Reitz, a fellow prophiteer and amazing woman who contributes to and volunteers for this great organization, to join her for this great event. The luncheon honored the extraordinary persons who have served United Way and our community throughout the past year.

As I’m watching the Oscars while writing this, I can’t help but relate to some of the acceptance speeches given. I was truly honored to be in the presence of such amazing people, people who volunteer countless hours to serve those who need it the most. And they do so without expecting anything in return; they do so because they want to better the lives of the individuals in their community and beyond.

As the nominees and winners for each category were read and received, I was truly inspired by the others in the room. But the moment that had me most moved was when Lisa was called for the Shining Star award. Out of the hundreds present at the luncheon, Lisa and a handful of others were recognized for their outstanding work and passion for the United Way over the past year. Not only is Lisa a Shining Star, she was also nominated and elected to the board position of Secretary after only three years involvement with the organization—truly amazing! Thank you to Lisa and the others who motivate so many people, myself included, to become better individuals and servant leaders.