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August 1, 2026On June 8, Catholic Charities North Dakota welcomed more than 100 guests to the Church of Corpus Christi in Bismarck for the 2026 Caritas Award Luncheon, honoring Leon and Alicia Heick for their extraordinary commitment to service.
The event brought together community members, staff and supporters in a spirit of gratitude and celebration, with Bishop David Kagan joining as a special guest.
The program began with a warm welcome from Deacon Tony Ternes, Chairman of the Board for Catholic Charities North Dakota, followed by an opening prayer from Bishop Kagan. From the start, the luncheon reflected the heart of the Caritas Award—recognizing compassion, faith and service lived out through everyday actions.
Executive Director Kari Dew then provided an overview of Catholic Charities North Dakota, highlighting the organization’s statewide impact and the inspiring example set by Leon and Alicia—whose lives have been marked by a deep and enduring commitment to serving others.
That commitment has taken many forms. Leon spent over three decades working as a programming consultant and assistant manager before serving as an auditor for the State of North Dakota, while Alicia dedicated 58 years to nursing, including work in labor and delivery and as a nursing educator, ultimately serving as a tenured assistant professor.
Their service also extends far beyond their professional careers. The Heicks participated in mission work in Guatemala and later served as missionaries at the diocese’s Bismarck African Mission in Kisii, Kenya, where they supported clinics, assisted with medical care, coordinated home building projects and cared for vulnerable families in need.
Closer to home, their generosity continues to shine through their involvement in parish life, including sharing their musical talents at Corpus Christi and local nursing homes, and Alicia’s volunteer work supporting individuals experiencing homelessness.
Pastor of the Church of Corpus Christi, Msgr. Patrick Schumacher, gave remarks outlining why he nominated the Heicks for the Caritas Award, sharing powerful reflections on their lifelong dedication to faith and service.
Bishop Kagan then presented Leon and Alicia with the 2026 Caritas Award. In their response, the couple humbly expressed gratitude, noting that they are surrounded by so many others who quietly give of themselves in service to others.
The luncheon concluded with a closing prayer from Fr. William Gerlach, of the Diocese of Fargo and member of the Board for Catholic Charities North Dakota, sending attendees forth inspired by the example of the Heicks and the mission of Catholic Charities North Dakota.
The Caritas Award is given annually to individuals or organizations who exemplify outstanding service and love for others—qualities that Leon and Alicia Heick have demonstrated throughout their lives.
This year’s celebration was a powerful reminder that true impact is often found not in recognition, but in a lifetime of faithful, compassionate service.
—Submitted information