The Highground Hosts Annual Friends of The Highground Recognition Dinner

Friday, May 1st, 2026 -- 12:01 PM

The Highground hosted its annual Friends of The Highground Recognition Dinner on April 11, 2026.

This special evening is dedicated to honoring the generous businesses, organizations and individuals who contributed $1,000 or more in 2025 through financial gifts or in‑kind services.

This year’s “Friends” community included more than 200 dedicated supporters, each playing a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission of healing and connection for veterans and their families.

The Highground Board of Directors and staff welcomed more than 120 guests for an evening of appreciation, celebration and camaraderie. Attendees were treated to a standout comedy performance by “The Two Norwegian Brothers North of Northfield” which was complemented by an exceptional menu provided by Castle Hill Supper Club.

The program featured the 2025 State of The Highground Address delivered by Executive Director Chris Pettis, who shared the success of last year’s events, ongoing projects and the organization’s vision heading into 2026.

A central focus of the address was the Campfire for Courage project an ambitious 2025–2026 fundraising initiative led by Wisconsin State VFW Commander Ty Letto and VFW Auxiliary President Kim McWilliam.

Their teams selected The Highground’s Veterans Retreat Program as their special project. Campfire for Courage aims to make it possible for up to 200 veterans to attend retreats in the coming years while also supporting the development of a retreat specifically for spouses, partners and loved ones.

“It’s going well,” noted Commander Letto, hinting at exciting details yet to be announced. The evening concluded with the presentation of more than 60 Friends of The Highground Awards, followed by the announcement of the 2025 Spirit of The Highground Award recipients.

This year, The Highground staff recognized 11 volunteer ice fishing guides whose dedication has made the annual veterans’ ice fishing day on Lake Arbutus a cherished tradition.

For three years, these volunteers have coordinated and facilitated a full Saturday of camaraderie, connection and outdoor enjoyment for veterans. In addition to the named honorees, the tenth recipient chose to remain anonymous.

This individual was described as a veteran who has quietly volunteered three days every week for the past year, consistently stepping in to help with any task the staff needed, an example of humility and service that embodies the spirit of The Highground.

The 2025 Spirit of The Highground Award Recipients included Eric Kramer, Joe Schwartz, Eugene Bertrang, Matthew Borsheim, Donald Dunham, Tim Helgerson, Al Kjos, Eric Sagen, Paul & Melissa Borsheim and an anonymous veteran volunteer.

As the evening came to a close, Executive Director Chris Pettis reflected on the heart of the organization’s mission. “It is with the steadfast commitment and generosity of our supporters, whether through donations, volunteer hours, or simply showing up and sharing the journey, that the mission to honor, educate and heal remains possible, and we thank you,” he stated.

(Photo courtesy of The Highground via press release)

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