Legacy Volunteers of the Year: Judy Secord (Brooklyn Park, MN) and Ray Mortensen (St. Cloud, MN)

The Salvation Army Northern Division is proud to celebrate our dedicated volunteers in Minnesota and North Dakota during National Volunteer Week 2026.

Nearly 22,000 Salvation Army volunteers give their time to help others throughout our region. They cook and serve hot meals, ring bells at Christmastime, help disaster survivors, push paperwork, mentor at-risk kids, and so much more.

Of these volunteers, several have stood out for their uncommon grit, grace and dedication. They are our 2026 Volunteers of the Year: Janice Danzl, Bill Lakin, Jim Papacek, Kent and Dawn Pearson, Joanna Sindt, and the Chase Family, along with Legacy Award winners Ray Mortensen and Judy Secord.

Today, we shine a spotlight on Ray Mortensen and Judy Secord, winners of our Legacy Volunteer of the Year category. 

“Congratulations to our 2026 Volunteers of the Year,” said Lt. Col. Randall Polsley, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “Their dedication inspires our commitment to delivering food, shelter and care to people and families in need throughout Minnesota and North Dakota.”

Judy Secord     
Brooklyn Park, MN

Staff and volunteers at The Salvation Army in Brooklyn Park, Minn., remember Judy Secord as a devoted servant of the Lord and for the beautiful legacy she left behind. 

Judy gave decades of volunteer service and was a cornerstone of the youth programs offered at the Brooklyn Park Salvation Army. She helped lead youth programs for children of all ages, guiding them in their faith and modeling a life rooted in service and devotion to Christ.   

A gifted seamstress, Judy generously mentored countless individuals in sewing, tailoring, and dry cleaning—always taking time to teach, encourage, and uplift. She opened her home and heart by hosting family dinners with her mentees, creating a place of belonging and encouragement.

Known lovingly as everyone’s “adoptive grandma,” Judy reflected the light of Jesus through her unwavering care for others. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, and she is deeply missed for her generosity, humility, and love.

Ray Mortensen      
St. Cloud, MN

Staff and volunteers at The Salvation Army in St. Cloud, Minn., remember Ray Mortensen as a joyful and irreplaceable presence during his seven wonderful years of service. 

Ray volunteered three days a week in the food shelf and kitchen, always ready to help wherever he was needed. He didn’t just complete tasks—he lifted spirits. He made people feel welcome and at home.

Even when Ray could no longer drive, his commitment never wavered. His devoted wife brought him to the St. Cloud Salvation Army week after week so he could continue serving the people he cared about. He kept coming for as long as his health allowed, a rare dedication that spoke deeply to his character and heart.

Ray loved participating in Bible study and saw it as a calling. Any opportunity to talk about the Lord filled him with joy. He shared his faith with warmth, humility, and sincerity—encouraging others without judgment and offering hope freely.

Ray’s legacy remains woven into the St. Cloud Salvation Army through the lives he touched, the faith he shared, and the example he set.