For years, Heather Kliewer has quietly helped ensure that families facing hunger in the Elk River area are met with dignity and support. That steady commitment has earned her recognition as a 2026 Good Neighbor Honoree by the Initiative Foundation.
The Good Neighbor Honor celebrates individuals whose quiet, steadfast service strengthens communities across central Minnesota. Honorees are recognized for consistently showing up for their neighbors, organizations and communities, often without seeking recognition. Kliewer is one of four honorees being recognized during the Initiative Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
“Heather embodies what it means to be a good neighbor,” said Brian Voerding, Initiative Foundation president. “Her dedication to serving others with dignity, compassion and consistency has made a lasting difference for families throughout the Elk River area. Through her leadership at CAER, she has brought people together, strengthened community connections and ensured that neighbors facing challenges know they are not alone.”
As executive director of the CAER Food Shelf, Kliewer leads an organization that serves hundreds of families each month across Elk River and surrounding communities. She works alongside staff, volunteers, donors and community partners to ensure neighbors have dignified access to nutritious food and supportive resources in a welcoming environment.
Kliewer’s connection to CAER began long before she joined the staff. As a youth, she participated in food drives to support the organization. Years later, she volunteered at the food shelf during summer breaks and eventually joined the staff full time in 2017. Following the retirement of longtime executive director Carmen Pouliot, Kliewer was selected to lead the organization in 2019.
Under her leadership, CAER became a certified SuperShelf, expanded engagement to more than 150 active volunteers and launched innovative programs to improve access to healthy food. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped create a free outdoor farmers market that connected local growers with families facing increased food insecurity. She also introduced supported shopping opportunities for individuals with mobility and sensory challenges, helping ensure all community members can access services with dignity.
Kliewer credits much of her leadership approach to her parents, who modeled a lifetime of volunteer service. She also credits the many volunteers, staff members and family members who support CAER’s mission. Three generations of her family have been involved in the organization’s work.
“Being a good neighbor means showing up consistently, even when no one is watching,” Kliewer said. “It means seeing a need and responding — not because you’ll be thanked, but because it’s the right thing to do.”
As part of the recognition, Kliewer is directing a $5,000 grant to CAER Food Shelf, extending the organization’s ability to provide support and relieve hunger throughout the Elk River area.
Kliewer will be recognized during the Initiative Foundation’s “Your Good Ideas — A 40th Anniversary Gathering” on Sept. 22 at Lupulin Brewing Company in Big Lake.
About Initiative Foundation
The Initiative Foundation invests in the people and places of central Minnesota to build thriving economies, vibrant communities and a shared culture of generosity. Since 1986, the foundation and its family of partner funds have invested millions through business loans, nonprofit grants, leadership training and donor services, helping communities imagine bold solutions and shape a future where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, can prosper, participate and belong.
