Fran Thomas Receives 2026 Brainerd Sertoma Service to Mankind Award

The Brainerd Noon Sertoma Club recognized Fran Thomas as this year’s Sertoma Service to Mankind award recipient.

The award honors an individual whose life and actions demonstrate exceptional service, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others.

Thomas volunteers at Lighthouse Beginnings, serving individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as at the Pointway Alliance Church. After receiving her award on Wednesday, Thomas stated she believes her service to mankind starts with her service to her religion.

“I don’t know what to say. I’m just shocked, I guess,” she said with a laugh. “I never expected anything like this. I love my Lord and I want to serve him. That’s why I think He led me here.”

Thomas has also survived cancer and a five-day coma. However, when she is asked how she’s doing, she usually responds with, “I’m too blessed to be stressed.”