The Chamber of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks named Jim Hansen the recipient of its annual community service award Friday.
Hansen, a local philanthropist and former owner of Hansen Ford, was selected as the 39th recipient of the Henry Havig Award for Community Service, as announced at the Chamber’s annual meeting and dinner at the Ralph Engelstad Arena .
Hansen has been a longtime benefactor of UND and a supporter of his church, local health care initiatives, the Community Foundation , United Way and many other causes, according to a Chamber news release.
“He made a huge commitment of time, energy and resources to our local YMCA, making it possible to replace all machines with new, modern equipment,” according to the release. “He has also had significant involvement in the building of the Choice Health and Fitness Center.”
Past Henry Havig Award recipient Bob Boyd and Chamber President/CEO Barry Wilfahrt presented the award to Hansen at the dinner before a crowd of nearly 500 people.
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As the former owner of Hansen Ford, Hansen remains involved in a variety of business interests, including serving on the Boards of the Insurance Trust of the North Dakota Auto Dealers Association and the Trustees of the North Dakota Automobile Association, according to the release.
Hansen said he was humbled by the award, and thanked his wife MaryDale and brother Steve. He said it will be a great experience to stand among the past award winners during future ceremonies.
“Grand Forks has been so good to the Hansens,” Hansen said.
Hansen’s award came after a speech from U.S. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D.
