you're invited to join us for

a celebration
of shared impact‍

November 10th, 2026 | 6:30 - 9 p.m. | Great Lakes Aquarium
reserve your ticket
Tickets are $40/person. Space is limited.

Join Boreal Waters Community Foundation for the inaugural Making Waves, an evening to recognize the people and organizations working to improve quality of life across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

The celebration will bring together donors, nonprofit leaders, business leaders and community partners for connection, storytelling and community award recognition.

‍
‍
‍
‍
‍
‍

Nominate a change maker

Making Waves & Bridge Builder Awards

Nominate Change-Makers in our Communities!

August 20, 2026
Help us recognize the individuals and organizations making a lasting difference in our communities. Nominate an individual or organization whose program, initiative, or mission you see creating a meaningful impact.
August 20, 2026
Read
Discover More Community stories

the evening

What to Expect

Join us for an evening of connection, community recognition and celebration at the Great Lakes Aquarium. Guests are invited to explore the aquarium throughout the evening, with a brief program and community award presentations beginning at 7:15 p.m.

Arrival & Aquarium Exploration

At 6:30 p.m. guests can arrive, explore the aquarium, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and visit the cash bar.

Community Awards
Program

At 7:15 p.m. Boreal Waters CEO Shaun Floerke will share brief remarks, followed by community award presentations.

Dessert & Live Music

After the program, guests can enjoy dessert, live music from local singer/songwriter Blake Thomas
and time to connect!

Celebrate & Connect

Continue exploring the aquarium and celebrating the people and organizations working to improve quality of life across our region.
Be part of an evening that brings together the people investing in, leading and supporting work that strengthens our region.
reserve your ticket

Making waves supporters

Thank You To
Our Generous Sponsors

Making Waves is made possible by generous sponsors who believe in the
people and organizations working to improve quality of life across our region.

Visionary

Change Champion

Community Builder

Give Where You Live.
Create Change That Lasts.

When you give to the Community Opportunity Fund, you're not just donating—you’re investing in the people, places, and possibilities of this region we all call home.
DONATE