North Star Reach Chief Executive Officer J.J. Lewis has been named one of Corp! Magazine’s 2026 Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs), joining an accomplished class of leaders recognized for their contributions to Michigan’s organizations, communities, and economy.
The annual MVP Awards recognize professionals whose leadership, innovation, and commitment are making a lasting impact across the state. This year’s honorees represent many of Michigan’s most respected businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, and public organizations.
For Lewis, however, the recognition belongs to far more than one individual.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition, but it truly belongs to our Campily,” said Lewis. “Every accomplishment at North Star Reach is possible because of our incredible staff, board of directors, volunteers, donors, campers, families, and community supporters. Leadership isn’t about standing in front of people, it’s about serving beside them, helping others succeed, and creating opportunities for children and families to experience the joy of camp.”
Since joining North Star Reach in 2024, Lewis has guided the organization through a period of renewed momentum, helping strengthen long-term sustainability, expand philanthropic partnerships, elevate community awareness, and celebrate the organization’s 10-year anniversary. Under his leadership, North Star Reach has continued expanding opportunities for children with serious health challenges and their families to experience medically supported camp programs, always free of charge.
Anna Maiuri, vice chair of the North Star Reach Board of Directors, said the recognition reflects both Lewis’ leadership and the organization’s continued growth.
“We’re incredibly proud to see J.J. recognized as one of Corp! Magazine’s Most Valuable Professionals,” said Maiuri. “It’s wonderful recognition for J.J., and it’s also tremendous visibility for North Star Reach and the important work happening here. J.J. embodies servant leadership. He leads with humility, optimism, and an unwavering commitment to our mission, while constantly championing our staff, volunteers, healthcare partners, donors, and families. He has brought people together around a shared vision, strengthened our organization, and inspired all of us to think even bigger about what’s possible. This recognition is well deserved.”
A lifelong learner and nonprofit executive, Lewis is serving in his second CEO role and his third C-suite leadership position. Beyond North Star Reach, he remains actively engaged in professional and civic leadership throughout Michigan, believing that communities are strengthened when nonprofits, businesses, volunteers, and public leaders work together in service of a common purpose.
As North Star Reach celebrates its 10 Years of Mooseness, Lewis views the recognition as another opportunity to introduce more people to the camp’s mission.
“If this recognition inspires someone to volunteer, make a gift, partner with us, or simply learn more about North Star Reach, then it has already accomplished something meaningful,” Lewis said. ‘Every new connection helps us ensure that more children with serious health challenges and their families can experience friendship, confidence, independence, and the simple joy of being kids.”
As North Star Reach looks toward its next decade of impact, the organization invites individuals, families, businesses, foundations, and community partners to become part of its Campily by volunteering, supporting camp, referring eligible families, and/or helping spread the word. Together, we can ensure every child with a serious health challenge has the opportunity to discover the life-changing power of camp. To learn more, visit www.northstarreach.org.
