Each spring at the Have a Heart Benefit, we recognize a volunteer who has made an exceptional contribution to our mission. Our 2025 Heart of Gold award winner is Cassie (Reinbold) Branden.
Cassie was part of the Odayin family long before she became a volunteer. Her journey began as an 11-year-old camper in 2003, during our second summer of camp! Since then, Odayin has remained a meaningful part of her life. The many ways she gives back are a true testament to the impact the Odayin heart family has had on her—and to the impact she now has on it.
For the past 14 years, Cassie has generously volunteered as a camp counselor across all our programs. She represents us at heart walks by hosting the Odayin booth, serves on the Mortimer’s Mates committee for alumni campers, and shares her gift for photography at our fundraisers.
This past year, Cassie, a Twin Cities resident, volunteered on the planning committee for our Milwaukee fundraiser, Flannels & Friends. She drove to Milwaukee to help us host the event, then stayed in Wisconsin to volunteer at Family Camp over the weekend. In 2024, she volunteered at Winter Camp, Summer Camp, and both Family Camp sessions. Her dedication is truly remarkable.
Cassie is the kind of person who shows up—wherever and whenever she’s needed—and always with a smile. We are so proud and grateful that she’s part of the Odayin family.
