Our annual fundraiser.
April 24th, 2026, Northern Pacific Center Brainerd
Annual Heroes Banquet
Serving those who serve.
Every day, first responders in the Brainerd Lakes Area step into the unknown so our communities can feel safe. They answer the calls most people hope they never have to make — showing up with courage, professionalism, and heart.
The Lakes Area Heroes Banquet is more than an event. It’s a night dedicated to standing behind the men and women who serve our local communities through fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical services.
This year’s theme, Serving Those Who Serve, reflects our mission: to give back to the people who give everything.
Northern Pacific Center, Brainerd
ENGAGEMENT
Through nominations, sponsorship, and participation, the fleet engages a simple but powerful way to stand behind our first responders.
MOBILIZATION
This vehicle is gratitude in motion, showing up to bring encouragement, appreciation, and tangible acts of support directly to first responder departments.
RECOGNITION
As it travels throughout the lakes area, the fleet keeps the mission of Lakes Area Heroes front and center: reminding our community to thank, honor, and give back to our heroes.
CONNECTION
By appearing at local events, schools, and community spaces, the fleet strengthens relationships between residents, businesses, and the heroes who protect them — creating moments of unity and shared pride.
April 24th, 2026
Why it matters:
Lakes Area Heroes exists to support local first responders and their families when they need it most. Whether it’s financial assistance during hardship, support after critical incidents, or helping departments bridge gaps that budgets don’t cover — your support stays local and makes a direct impact right here in the Lakes Area.
When you purchase a ticket, sponsor a table, or make a donation, you’re helping us continue to:
✔ Provide relief during times of crisis
✔ Support the families behind the badge
✔ Strengthen relationships between first responders and the community
✔ Ensure those who serve never feel alone
This year’s banquet will be held at the Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd. We are so excited to be in a larger venue and we have a few things up our sleeves you wont want to miss!
What to expect
We are so excited to welcome everyone to Lakes Area Heroes' 3rd annual banquet. This year, the banquet is being held at the Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd!
The Lakes Area Heroes Banquet is designed to be an exciting, high-energy night that brings the community together while raising meaningful support for our local first responders.
Most importantly, come ready to enjoy great company, powerful stories, and a shared mission.
Bring your generosity, because every ticket purchased, raffle entered, and donation made helps us continue serving those who serve our communities every day.
AT THE EVENT:
WHY SUPPORT THE FLEET?
We are seeking sponsors to help put the Return the Favor Fleet on the road. Sponsorship support makes this initiative possible — turning community gratitude into visible action and strengthening
the work of Lakes Area Heroes.
Sponsorship Deadline: March 27, 2026
Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to participate in several fundraising experiences, including:
SAVE THE DATE: April 24, 2026
FOUNDING FLEET SPONSOR // $2,500
Limited to 5 Sponsors
Sponsorship Benefits:
+ Recognition as an exclusive “Founding Fleet Sponsor” in announcement & media materials
+ Premium logo placement on a custom wrapped retired emergency vehicle
+ Logo listed on the Lakes Area Heroes Website
+ Recognition and 4 reserved seats at the 2026 LAH Banquet in April
+ Social Media Recognition
+ Scheduled fleet appearance at your business
+ Official LAH Supporter window decal & digital badge
+ A portion of this sponsorship goes directly to supporting local heroes
FUEL THE FLEET SPONSOR // $1,200
Limited to 8 Sponsors
Sponsorship Benefits:
+ Business name listed inside the inaugural LAH Fleet vehicle
+ Recognition at the 2026 LAH Banquet
+ Logo listed on the Lakes Area Heroes Website
+ Social Media Recognition
+ Scheduled fleet appearance at your business
+ Official LAH Supporter window decal & digital badge
+ A portion of this sponsorship goes directly to supporting local heroes
JEWELRY GIVEAWAYS + FEATURED ITEMS
Fundraising opportunity
Beautiful pieces will be available to win, adding an extra level of excitement to the evening.
FRIENDS OF LAKES
AREA HEROES // $250
Unlimited Availability
Sponsorship Benefits:
+ Person/Business Name listed on the Lakes Area Heroes Website (unless request for anonymity)
+ A portion of this sponsorship goes directly to supporting local heroes
BUCKET RAFFLE GAMES + PRIZES
Fundraising opportunity
LAKES AREA HEROES SUPPORTER // $25 - $100
Unlimited Availability
Sponsorship Benefits:
+ A portion of this sponsorship goes directly to supporting local heroes
PREMIUM FIREARM RAFFLES
Fundraising opportunity
Featuring a selection of higher-end firearms and outdoor-focused prizes that reflect the spirit of our Lakes Area community.
With over $10,000+ in prizes, there will be something for everyone. From local favorites to unique experiences, these raffles are always a highlight of the night.