2026 Heart of the Work Live
Heart of the Work is an annual awards event held in Ferndale, presented this year as a drag show celebrating community. Eight outstanding community members and collectives are honored for contributing to a safer, more affirming Michigan LGBTQ+ environment.
In 2026, the Heart of the Work event was reimagined as a drag show hosted by Betty J Madison at the Affirmations Gallery in Ferndale. It creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere celebrating community achievements.
The event recognized eight distinguished individuals and groups: Kim Hale received the Volunteer of the Year Award, Rev. Dr. Roland Stringfellow earned the Community Leadership and Impact Award, Ryanne Riegling was honored with the Michigan LGBTQ+ Philanthropy Award, Rachel Crandall Crocker received the Community Hero Award, and John Sauvé was presented the Outstanding Collective Spirit Award. Additional honors included John Stanaszek with the Legacy and Impact Award, Forest Bakery as Local Queer-Friendly Business, and Stonewall Sports Detroit for Community Cares.
The event acknowledges significant contributions to the support and advancement of the Michigan LGBTQ+ community.
The event recognized eight distinguished individuals and groups: Kim Hale received the Volunteer of the Year Award, Rev. Dr. Roland Stringfellow earned the Community Leadership and Impact Award, Ryanne Riegling was honored with the Michigan LGBTQ+ Philanthropy Award, Rachel Crandall Crocker received the Community Hero Award, and John Sauvé was presented the Outstanding Collective Spirit Award. Additional honors included John Stanaszek with the Legacy and Impact Award, Forest Bakery as Local Queer-Friendly Business, and Stonewall Sports Detroit for Community Cares.
The event acknowledges significant contributions to the support and advancement of the Michigan LGBTQ+ community.
This description was prepared from source information with AI assistance. Check the organizer’s latest details before heading out.
Source: Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center ↗
Last successful source check: Sep 25, 2026, 11:45 AM