Hometown Hero

Every year, the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation (TAEF) honors an individual whose service makes a difference in the Thornapple Kellogg community.


The Hometown Hero award recognizes people who show excellence, integrity, and a lasting commitment to others. Know someone who deserves recognition? Tell us their story.

“Hometown Hero” text on a soft beige background with green leaves on the right

What Is the TAEF Hometown Hero Award?

The TAEF Hometown Hero award is an annual recognition for outstanding service to the Thornapple Kellogg community. Community members can submit nominations, and the TAEF Board of Directors selects an honoree to celebrate at a special dinner.

Nominate a Hometown Hero

A Hometown Hero may be someone whose steady work has helped neighbors, strengthened a local organization, or made the community a better place. Your nomination should explain what the person has done and why their service matters.


You can submit a nomination using the online form. The current program information also allows nominations by email or mail.

What to Include in Your Nomination
  • The nominee’s name
  • The nominee’s address
  • The nominee’s phone number
  • A brief explanation, about 250 words, of why the nominee should be considered
  • Your contact information as the nominator

Honoree Dinner

TAEF hosts an annual Honoree Dinner to celebrate people who have provided outstanding service to the Thornapple Kellogg community. The TAEF Board of Directors selects an honoree who is recognized at a special dinner in September.

Past Hometown Hero Honorees

Each honoree’s contribution is part of the Thornapple Kellogg community’s story. Keep the existing photo gallery here, with one card per honoree and a visible name and year.

Smiling woman in white jacket standing outdoors near a brick building and trees
Two people smiling outdoors by a lake, with trees and a blue sky in the background.
Man standing outdoors by a railing in a white shirt, with green trees in the background
Smiling couple seated indoors, the man in a dark jacket and blue shirt, the woman in a blue-and-white floral top.
Group of people posing indoors beneath white balloons, holding a large ceremonial key and smiling.
Man speaking at a microphone, wearing a dark blazer and black cap with text.
Two smiling adults seated outdoors at a gathering, with trees and parked cars in the background
Smiling person with glasses and curly hair in a dark setting, wearing earrings and layered necklaces
Studio portrait of a man in a tan suit and patterned tie against a dark background
Man seated outdoors in a wheelchair on a porch, wearing a white polo shirt and colorful cap.
Gray generic profile silhouette icon on a white background
Gray generic profile silhouette icon on a white background
Gray generic profile silhouette icon on a white background
Two people sitting outdoors on green chairs, holding hands, with a house wall and flowers behind them
Two men in suits hold a framed award while a woman stands beside them at an indoor event
View more

Hometown Hero Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who can I nominate for the Hometown Hero award?

    TAEF seeks nominations for outstanding people who show excellence, integrity, and commitment through service to the Thornapple Kellogg community. Describe the nominee’s specific contributions in your submission.

  • How do I nominate someone?

    Use the online nomination form. The current program information also says nominations may be emailed or mailed.

  • What information does a nomination need?

    Include the nominee’s name, address, and phone number; about 250 words explaining why they should be considered; and your own contact information.

  • Who chooses the Hometown Hero?

    The TAEF Board of Directors selects the honoree.

  • When is the honoree recognized?

    TAEF recognizes the selected honoree at a special dinner in September. Check the current event information for the confirmed date and location.

  • When are nominations due?

    A deadline is not listed on the current Hometown Hero page. Contact Barry Community Foundation to confirm the deadline before submitting a nomination.

Questions About the Award

Contact Barry Community Foundation at (269) 945-0526 to ask about nominations or the Honoree Dinner.