Our Stories
2026 NCTA Volunteer Awards: Distinguished Service
Distinguished Service Awards are presented to volunteers in recognition of 8 years or more of exceptional volunteer service in furthering the goals of the NCTA, and outstanding contributions toward the dream of the North Country Trail.
Bill Majernik
Bill has devoted more than 25 years of volunteer service to building, maintaining, and improving the North Country Trail. From helping establish the Wampum Chapter and laying out some of its earliest trail sections to constructing bridges, rerouting trails for safety, maintaining shelters, and tackling countless workdays, Bill has always answered the call. A gifted problem solver and mentor, he has welcomed new volunteers, shared his trail-building skills, and inspired others. Beyond physical trail work, he represents the Chapter at community events, introducing countless people to the trail with warmth and enthusiasm. Bill’s dedication, humble spirit, and lasting contributions have shaped this trail and its volunteer community.
Jack Norland
Jack has committed thousands of volunteer hours to building, protecting, and promoting the North Country Trail across North Dakota and beyond for more than a decade. A tireless leader, trail builder, certified sawyer, hike leader, and mentor, Jack has strengthened every aspect of the Dakota Prairie Chapter through his vision and expertise. He has been at the forefront of trail construction projects on all the Chapter’s 100 miles of trail. He has developed innovative mapping tools adopted by other Chapters, recruited new volunteers, and generously shared his knowledge wherever it was needed. Whether repairing equipment, advocating for the trail, or welcoming hikers with enthusiasm, Jack serves with humility and purpose.
Dale and Kathy Painter
For more than a decade, Dale and Kathy have quietly and faithfully dedicated their time, talents, and hearts to the North Country Trail. As longtime trail adopters, they have maintained their section with care, contributed to major trail projects, and participated in countless workdays. As authors, they recently created narratives for a Western Michigan Chapter sign project across Newaygo County, helping visitors connect more deeply with the trail. Their volunteerism extends beyond maintenance through presentations, storytelling, and community outreach that inspire others to explore, appreciate, and protect the trail.
Mary Rebert
Mary has been a tireless volunteer for the Chief Noonday Chapter since 2009 and her dedication has touched nearly every aspect of the trail. She has led outreach efforts, organized events, served in Chapter and national leadership roles, and championed projects that made the trail more welcoming – from installing benches and picnic tables to recognizing trail adopters. Mary has also contributed to trail protection and land acquisition efforts while continuing to welcome new members with warmth and enthusiasm. Her passion for the trail has inspired countless volunteers, including those she personally recruited.
Karen Stenberg
Karen has been the heart and soul of the Laurentian Lakes Chapter since its founding, dedicating countless volunteer hours to advancing the NCT. From helping design, clear, and build the trail in its earliest days to faithfully maintaining her 4.5-mile trail section, Karen’s commitment has never wavered. She has inspired more than a thousand people by leading hikes, served as the Chapter’s Vice President, participated in the National Park Service’s Junior Ranger committee, and tirelessly promoted the trail through media outreach and storytelling. Karen’s passion, leadership, and volunteer spirit are leaving a lasting legacy, enriching both the trail and everyone fortunate enough to experience it.
Learn more about this volunteer awards program at northcountrytrail.org/awards.
