The Bismarck Human Relations Committee is honoring a youth, an adult, and a business or nonprofit organization for demonstrating leadership in advancing human rights. The humanitarian awards recognize individuals and organizations that educate, advocate, and work to eliminate discriminatory barriers while promoting dignity and equal opportunity for all.
The awards will be presented at the July 22 Bismarck City Commission meeting at 5:15 p.m. The awards will be presented to the winners in the following order: the youth individual award winner, Lauren Zent, the adult individual winner, Mika Stokkeland and then the business or nonprofit organization winner, Youthworks.
The HRC named Zent as the recipient of the Youth Human Rights Award. Rob Peske submitted the nomination. Zent has worked extensively with individuals with special needs through both volunteer and paid roles. She has volunteered with United Sound, a program that teaches music to students with disabilities, and provides respite care through the local Pride Inc. team.
In addition to her scheduled duties, Zent often uses her own time and resources to support the individuals she works with. She organizes community outings, such as trips to North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, and maintains relationships with clients outside of work hours.
Peske, who taught Zent in orchestra for eight years, said she has consistently demonstrated leadership and a strong commitment to inclusion. He noted that many individuals she supported attended her graduation party, reflecting the deep connections she has formed in the special needs community.
Zent plans to pursue a degree in special education and continue advocating for individuals with disabilities. She regularly seeks opportunities to educate others, promote human rights, and foster a more inclusive community.
“I truly enjoy what I do and the people I work with, so I'm honored to receive this award. My hope is that recognition like this inspires others to play their part in building a more accepting and inclusive community," Zent said.
The HRC selected Stokkeland as the Adult Human Rights Award recipient. Kerry Beck submitted the nomination. Stokkeland, a military human resources specialist with the North Dakota Army National Guard, has volunteered with Designer Genes for the past four years. The nonprofit organization, based in Bismarck-Mandan, supports individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
She organizes private events for families with children ages 2 to 6 who have Down syndrome, creating inclusive environments where families can connect, share resources and access peer support. Her efforts have helped strengthen Designer Genes’ community outreach and programming.
Stokkeland also supports the organization’s advocacy work, including the annual Walk for Down Syndrome, which the Bismarck Tribune named one of its Best of the Best Charity Events in 2023. She helps raise awareness about Down syndrome and promotes inclusion through her volunteer service.
In addition to her community involvement, Stokkeland serves full time in the NDNG and is a mother of three.
“I accept this award with a full heart, not because I feel I deserve it, but because it shines a light on my beautiful Down syndrome community and my incredible mom tribe,” said Stokkeland. “You are the ones who show me what real strength and unconditional love look like. You fight battles no one sees and love harder than anyone can imagine. To the women who wipe tears, celebrate every milestone and hold each other through the hardest days, you fight quietly, love fiercely and show up every single day without applause. I am standing here because you stand beside me. This honor is truly yours.”
The HRC has selected Youthworks as a recipient of the business or nonprofit organization Human Rights Award. Emily Yanish and Erin Oban nominated the organization, with Melanie Heitkamp representing Youthworks for 2024 and Mark Heinert, executive director of Youthworks for 2025.
Youthworks, a nonprofit organization, provides safe spaces where young people feel heard and supported. The organization follows the Positive Youth Development philosophy, using a strengths-based approach that emphasizes safety, positive adult relationships and opportunities for youth to contribute to their communities.
Youthworks has built a diverse and compassionate team committed to providing inclusive, nonjudgmental support to all youth. Staff members serve on community boards, coalitions and advisory groups, where they advocate for youth and raise awareness about their needs and strengths.
In addition to its system-level work, Youthworks helps young people advocate for themselves, identify goals and overcome barriers. The organization serves as a critical resource for marginalized youth, offering guidance and support that helps them succeed.
“We’re honored to be recognized by the City of Bismarck Human Relations Committee for our work with local youth and young adults,” said Heinert. “This award shows that Bismarck values its young people, and that means a great deal to us. Our mission is to ensure they have a safe place where they feel they belong and are heard.”
You can learn more about the HRC here.