Jenny Heller

ESCANABA — Escanaba Elks Lodge #354 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America has announced it has selected Jenny Heller as the Elk’s Citizen of the Year for the 2024-25 Fraternal Year.

A lifelong resident of the Escanaba area, Heller has been employed by EMP for the last 32 years and is currently the operations supervisor. Heller’s pride and joy is her son, Brett, who also lives in Escanaba.

A long-standing member of the Elks, Heller served as our secretary for several years and was awarded the Elks Officer of the Year in 2013. She has also contributed significantly as a bartender, participated in the women’s bowling league, volunteered for Special Olympics track meets, and assisted in planning numerous lodge events.

Heller has been actively involved in various board of directors and held numerous positions with organizations such as the Gladstone Women’s Slow-pitch League, Tri County Safe Harbor, Escanaba Band Boosters, Delta Area Transit Authority, Delta County Credit Union, Bonifas Art Center, and Players de Noc. Among her many achievements, she was particularly recognized for her contributions to the Delta County Jaycees, receiving both the Martin P. Luthy award for outstanding chapter presidents in Michigan and the Charles Kulp award for outstanding chapter presidents in the United States.

In addition, Heller has dedicated time as an election worker, wrapped gifts for Shop with a Cop, coached for Special Olympics, engaged in Delta Force and Escanaba Public Safety’s Citizens Academy, and supported several political campaigns including the 911 Sheriff Road Patrol millage. She has also generously volunteered for events benefiting the EPSD charity golf outing, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Delta Animal Shelter, Esky Fan Club, and the Child Advocacy Center.

In her free time, she enjoys reading on the beach, working on Players de Noc productions with her son, spending time with her fur babies Archie and Joey, and making memories with friends and family.

Heller’s exemplary service and dedication to the community have rightfully earned her this prestigious award.