The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs was well represented among award winners at a recent industry conference event highlighting the best of the state’s older adults services caregivers.

Sponsored by LeadingAge Minnesota, an organization that advocates for aging services to ensure older adults in every community live with dignity, meaning and purpose, the annual “Stars Among Us” awards honor the best professionals, volunteers, leaders, caregivers and Residents/Clients.

The Caregiver of the Year award recognizes individuals who go beyond expectations to greatly enhance the quality of life for seniors and their communities. This year’s regional Caregiver of the Year award recipient was Kayla Hoffman, Certified Nursing Assistant at Minnesota Veterans Homes - Silver Bay.

Kayla is recognized for compassionate, Resident-centered care and her ability to build trust and comfort through attentiveness, empathy and reliability. Kayla works tirelessly to ensure that each Resident’s needs are met, consistently going above and beyond to provide personal, compassionate care for everyone in the community.

Kathyrn Rosha, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing at the Silver Bay Veterans Home, shares that Kayla consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, resourcefulness and professionalism in her work. “Her commitment to delivering outstanding Resident care is evident in everything she does. Kayla builds meaningful and trusting relationships with the Residents, treating them with the utmost respect and dignity.”

The Rising Star award recognizes the commitment, contributions and impact of a person in their first three years at their organization/community. This year, Luke Haugerud, Food Service Worker at Minnesota Veterans Homes - Preston, was recognized as LeadingAge Minnesota’s 2026 Rising Star.

In less than one year, Luke Haugerud has made an extraordinary and deeply personal impact at the Preston Veterans Home. While his role is in food service, Luke’s influence extends far beyond the kitchen — he has become a trusted presence, a connector and a source of joy for Veteran Residents.

Luke builds genuine relationships through music, conversation and thoughtful engagement, meeting each Veteran where they are and honoring their stories. Whether organizing meaningful moments, encouraging participation or simply showing up with consistency and heart, Luke demonstrates maturity, compassion and purpose well beyond his tenure. His work ethic, creativity and alignment with mission make him a powerful example of the next generation of leaders in aging services.

Korby Koch, Recreation Therapy Coordinator at the Preston Veterans Homes, notes that as a Food Service Worker, Luke consistently demonstrates professionalism, compassion and a strong work ethic—always going above and beyond to ensure Veteran Residents feel respected, cared for and nourished. “Beyond his daily responsibilities, Luke is a gifted musician whose performances bring comfort, joy and connection to our community. Whether serving meals or sharing music, he uplifts those around him with his positive energy and genuine care.”

The Volunteer of the Year award recognizes an individual whose commitment and dedication enhance the quality of life for seniors and their communities. This year’s regional award was presented to Milo Scott who volunteers at the Minnesota Veterans Homes - Fergus Falls.

Milo is honored for nearly daily volunteer service marked by resilience, generosity and heartfelt connection with Veterans and fellow volunteers. Milo generously gives his time at the Veterans Home, fostering relationships with Residents and staff that help make it a place people love to call home.

Eryn Smith, Recreation Therapy Coordinator at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home, nominated Milo, stating that “there are people who give their time, and then there are people who give their heart. Milo Scott is the latter, and that is what makes him the most deserving person I have ever known for this award. When Milo walks into our Veterans Home, the atmosphere changes. His presence is calming, his smile disarming, and his sincerity undeniable.”

The Change Makers Photo Contest awarded third place to David Peters, a Vietnam War Air Force Veteran who attends the Veterans Home Adult Day Program on the Minneapolis Home campus. The winning photograph featured David and his wood-carved model train.

According to Adult Day Center Director Ann Rostratter, “David believes staying busy and engaged in your passion is what makes you happy and fulfilled. His passion is woodworking, and he has created the most intricate and beautiful pieces of art over the years. It took two years to complete his latest creation: a scale size train which he entered at the Minnesota State Fair (in 2025), winning first place in his age division.”

Congratulations to Kayla, Luke, Milo and David on these well-deserved awards!