Ziherl named 2024 Don Wolf award recipient

Big Brothers Big Sisters named Stan Ziherl as the recipient of the 2024 Don Wolf Award.

Ziherl’s dedication to philanthropy and community service has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Don Wolf Award. His journey from Ohio to his current role as president and CEO of Five Star Distributing in Columbia City, Indiana, is a testament to his commitment to making a difference. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Ziherl has been deeply involved in the Fort Wayne community since 2005, contributing to various local nonprofits and serving on boards such as Miss Virginia’s Food Pantry, the Community Harvest Food Bank, and CORE Vocational. His support for Big Brothers Big Sisters has been particularly impactful, creating hundreds of matches for children on the waiting list over the past decade.

One notable instance of his generosity was in 2009 when he provided an extraordinary experience for Bigs, Littles, and their families at the new TinCaps stadium, showcasing his belief that every child deserves the chance to experience joy and create cherished memories. Ziherl’s involvement in the Dunne Hall community at Notre Dame, alongside his college roommates, has left a legacy of camaraderie and support, inspiring future generations to value friendship and strive for excellence.

Despite his achievements, Ziherl remains humble, working quietly behind the scenes and embodying the core values of the Don Wolf Award, which honors individuals for their commitment to youth in the community. His enduring commitment to making a meaningful difference serves as an inspiration to all highlighting the profound impact one individual can have on their community and beyond.

The Don Wolf Award, established in 1999, honors individuals for their exceptional commitment and contributions to the youth in our community. It is named after Don Wolf, the former CEO of Do it Best Corporation, who was instrumental in bringing Big Brothers Big Sisters to Northeast Indiana in 1972. Over the years, the award has recognized a distinguished list of recipients, including Senator Dan Coats, Jim Kelley, and many others, for their dedication to mentorship and support of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

For more information, or to reserve a ticket, contact Michelle Schwab at michelle.schwab@bbbsnei.org or by calling (260) 456-1600.

ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTHEAST INDIANA

For 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that the ability to succeed and thrive in life is inherent in all children. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. If you or anyone you know would like to get involved, give us a call at (260) 456-1600 or visit our website at www.bbbsnei.org.