Heartland Hero Duke Braun
The heart of the Jersey Heartland beats strongest because of individuals like Duke Braun.
As President of the Wenonah Lake Association — a volunteer-based civic organization that hosts several fundraisers and community events aimed towards families and children in the area — Duke and his contributions have not only been plentiful but impactful. Leading the way in fulfilling Wenonah Lake Association’s mission to improve and advocate for Wenonah Lake, its swimming program, and the surrounding communities, his efforts have translated to a 50% increase in revenues over the last two years. After being under threat of fiscal dissolution for nearly eight decades, the program’s foreseeable future looks promising.
In the spring of 2019, Duke also raised funds and spearheaded an all-volunteer project to address and remediate the dangerous and deteriorating playground within the Wenonah Lake grounds. This work included initiating and overseeing the completion of a drainage system and the installation of a mulch barrier and playground mulch. In securing grants to replace or update outdated playground equipment, Duke further showcased his unwavering commitment to creating long-term solutions for 2020 and beyond.
A passionate leader who would never sit idly by, Duke continually builds upon an already impressive and extensive resume of selfless, community-benefiting works. Beyond the Wenonah Lake area itself, he has been front and center in countless volunteer events and activities. From participating in the Clean Communities Day and mock interviews for students with Gateway2Careers to playing a role in the Women’s Club of Wenonah Farmers Market and Wenonah Elementary Ice Cream Social, Duke has been an integral and indispensable component in community growth, development, and success. In his free time, he’s also managed to serve as coach and assistant coach of several youth sports in the Wenonah area.
For all this and more, we are extremely honored to thank Duke Braun and name him as New Jersey’s Heartland Hero for June.
