2026 Heart of the Work Live

Join us for Heart of the Work — Sunday, September 27th! Can’t make it in person? There are still SO many ways to get involved!
This year, Heart of the Work is reimagined as a drag show celebration hosted by Betty J Madison, bringing the warmth of a community reunion to our annual awards event. We’re honoring eight outstanding community members & collectives who are building a safer, more affirming Michigan for LGBTQ+ people — from the volunteers who show up here every week to the leaders whose impact reaches across the state and beyond.
The AFF Five:

Kim Hale – Volunteer of the Year Award
Rev. Dr. Roland Stringfellow – Community Leadership & Impact Award
Ryanne Reigling – Michigan LGBTQ+ Philanthropy Award
Rachel Crandall Crocker – Community Hero Award
John Sauvé – Outstanding Collective Spirit Award

Also honoring this year:

John Stanaszek – Legacy & Impact Award
Forest Bakery – Local Queer-Friendly Business Award
Stonewall Sports Detroit – Community Cares Award