Mary Novotny, President & Chairperson

Hello, my name is Mary Novotny. In my younger years as a child, it consisted of roaming the property with our family dog from dusk until dawn. My adventurous childhood of exploring nature made me realize that I am so grateful and blessed to have what I have until this day, and those years were the best years!  My father taught me to survive off the land, and I was also taught and reminded my father (almost a daily reminder) that I have a strong bond with people and my power to shine is now in this world and many years ahead. My purpose of this organization is from what I have been taught by my father and mother. I was taught at a very young age that giving to people that have less than us is key to life and placing an impact on others. Giving an impact on another either big or small is a deed that is needed. My life at this very moment is being a caretaker for my elderly mother, being a cool and fun mom to my darling 6-year-old son “Henry” and managing 2 households. I come across as a person to many as a compassionate, caring, humble, kind, and a strong individual.

Katelyn Mueller, Vice Chair

My name is Katelyn Mueller, and I am one of the founders of Henry’s Humble heart. I graduated from South Dakota State University in May of 2024 with a bachelor’s in arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. I majored in psychology and have two minors in Human Resources (HR) and Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS). I enjoy being active by playing softball, helping with chores around the house, and a caretaker for a family friend. I also enjoy spending time on the lake whether that is fishing, tubing, swimming, etc. I am also a HUGE family person and love spending time with my family creating memories as much as I can. Overall, I am always trying to help those who need help whether it is a stranger, friend or family, or an acquaintance. I always put others’ struggles before mine because I feel there are people out there who have it worse than I do.  I want to make sure I thank you for joining our journey and getting to know our board! I hope to meet you all in person one day at any of our events!

Victoria Stoffel, Secretary

My name is Victoria Stoffel, I am a mother, wife, child, and grandmother. I received my MBA from Concordia University and continue to use everything I learned growing up in the intercity to support and give back to my community especially in a time of need and imbalance. In my current role as the Vice President of an organization my personal ambition is “have a vision that is inclusive with humility and compassion where everyone matters.”  When I was asked to join Henry’s Humble Heart from its inception, I was all in!  The concept of focusing on community, a sense of belonging, and helping those in need in the Chisago Lakes is immeasurable.

Benjamin Zillmer, Financial & Legal Support