MANKATO — Jim Weart never asked for recognition. But after 15 years of quietly shaping young lives through the Mankato Family’s YMCA Brother/Sister Program, the community decided it was time to show its gratitude.
Weart received a big surprise earlier this summer — a free furnace, fully installed, courtesy of Schwickert’s Tecta America and Bryant Heating & Cooling System’s Community Heroes program.
Weart was nominated by YMCA’s director of social responsibility, Tom Schueneman, for the impact he’s made in the lives of local youth. He is the first winner of this newly revived program and received the award at a ceremony hosted by the YMCA on Wednesday.
“He’s a person who puts others before himself, before his own needs. He’s driven by a desire to help. His actions create a positive effect throughout Mankato,” Schueneman said. “He helps make good things happen by giving back to the community.”
Weart first arrived in Mankato in 1975 as a student and has been heavily involved ever since. He didn’t know he had been nominated, let alone chosen, as Community Hero until Schwickert’s call to deliver the news.
“Mankato has given me a lot,” Weart said during the ceremony. “I didn’t get here without a lot of people supporting me, so thank you all very much.”
After receiving the award, he exchanged it for a check with a written donation of $1,000 to the Brother/Sister Program.
In attendance was mentee Jon Luepke, who was matched with Weart from 2014-22. When asked what advice he might give to someone considering becoming a mentor, he said: “Following in Jim’s footsteps by maintaining a positive attitude, being willing to help without expecting anything in return, and striving to make a positive impact on a young boy’s life.”
Schwickert’s said they plan to continue the Community Heroes program annually, bringing recognition and support to more unsung community members.
“For Schwickert’s, supporting the communities we serve is a core value of ours. Bringing the Community Heroes program to Mankato was something we jumped at,” said Connor Tanhoff, marketing manager at Schwickert’s in a news release. “This whole Community Heroes program is about recognizing those who make Mankato a better place. Jim’s story stood out, and we’re proud to honor him for the impact he’s had.”
Tony Frost, residential HVAC department manager at Schwickert’s, said the install of an upgraded 97% efficient furnace was completed in a single day in June.
“This wasn’t just about a new furnace, it was about showing appreciation for someone who’s made a difference in our community for years,” Frost said.