Congratulations to Amanda Willmert, Do Good Volunteer of January 2026!
"I am honored to nominate Amanda Willmert for her outstanding leadership and dedication in creating and growing the Keweenaw Youth Basketball League. Launched in 2024, Amanda developed this program to provide a local, accessible and engaging basketball experience for students from junior kindergarten through 6th grade. Her vision brought to life a six-week league that begins at the start of the school year and runs through October, hosted at Calumet-Laurium-Keweenaw Schools.
The Keweenaw Youth Basketball League has quickly become a vibrant part of the community, offering an exciting opportunity for students across the region to participate in organized basketball close to home. Families from as far as Chassell and Baraga are now registering their children for this local program, reducing the need for long-distance travel to access similar opportunities. The league not only fosters physical activity and skill development, but also builds community spirit and teamwork among local youth.
Amanda’s commitment to this program extends far beyond its creation. She tirelessly recruits volunteers and coaches, plans weekly programming, manages all administrative tasks and ensures that the league remains affordable for all families. Her dedication, passion and hard work have allowed the program to successfully enter its second year, inspiring kids to stay active, build confidence and develop a lifelong love for sports.
Amanda Willmert’s efforts exemplify the power of community leadership and the impact of one person’s vision. She has created an inclusive, sustainable program that will benefit Keweenaw families for years to come, making her an outstanding nominee for this recognition."