Each year, City of Fort Wayne (COFW) employees will nominate outstanding Fort Wayne citizens who demonstrate humility, kindness and compassion, as well as leadership abilities, representing the best of our city. A committee of employees appointed by Mayor Tucker will choose one individual from the submitted nominations, based on the criteria below. COFW employees, current elected officials, current candidates for public office, and previous “Heart of the City” award recipients are not eligible.

The nominee must be a Fort Wayne resident who demonstrates active, positive community engagement and meets at least one of the following criteria:

1. Has made significant volunteer contributions to the local community.
2. Has demonstrated leadership on a community issue resulting in the enhancement of community life.
3. Has led or organized a significant initiative which has brought about positive change and added value to community life.

I am honored to nominate Kody Tinnel for this esteemed award. Kody's unwavering commitment to leadership, humility, kindness, and compassion has significantly enriched our city, making him a truly deserving candidate for this recognition.

Kody's leadership is exemplified through his role as Vice President of Community Development at Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne. Since October 2024, Kody has led efforts to promote arts and culture in Northeast Indiana, fostering strategic partnerships and community outreach initiatives. His visionary leadership has not only enhanced the cultural landscape of our city but has also inspired countless individuals to engage with and support the arts. Kody's ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders has resulted in innovative programs that celebrate and elevate our community's artistic expression.

Kody's kindness and compassion are at the heart of his community involvement. As a cofounder of the Tree Canopy Growth Fund I have had the privilege of working with Kody for the last 5 years. Kody has been instrumental in advocating for the public health benefits of urban tree canopies. His efforts have led to the planting and distribution of nearly 3,000 new trees throughout our City, enhancing the environment and fostering a sense of community. Kody keeps the Tree Canopy Growth Fund organized and does all of their social media. Kody's compassion extends to his work with the Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control Commission, where he provides fiscal oversight to support animal welfare initiatives. His dedication to improving the lives of others is evident in his involvement and membership with the Women's Fund of Greater Fort Wayne.

Kody's impact on our city is further exemplified by his involvement in various leadership roles. As President of the Packard Area Planning Alliance, Kody led the development and implementation of the Packard 2030 Plan, a master plan for neighborhood revitalization. His dedication to community service is also evident in his work with the Historic Foster Park Neighborhood Association, where he coordinated neighborhood improvement projects and engaged residents through effective communication. Kody's efforts have resulted in tangible improvements to our city's neighborhoods, enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Kody's contributions to our city are not limited to his professional roles. He is an active member of several organizations, including the Knight Foundation Advisory Committee and the Northern Indiana Passenger Rail Association, where he advocates for initiatives that enhance the quality of life in our region. Kody's commitment to making a positive impact is unwavering, and his actions inspire others to follow in his footsteps. Kody has been asked to speak and has been honored with many awards. Kody’s impact on this city is varied and in many different arenas, this is because Kody is willing to step up and put in the work when gaps exist. That is the true definition of a city leader and servant, to serve where there is need. I am proud to call Kody a friend, colleague and most importantly a difference maker in our community.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Kody Tinnel for the Citizen of the Year award. His exceptional leadership, humility, kindness, and compassion make him an invaluable asset to our city and its residents. Kody's dedication to improving the lives of others and his unwavering commitment to community service have left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit our city for years to come. I am confident that Kody will continue to make a positive impact wherever he goes, and I am excited to see the great things he will accomplish in the future.