The entire Prime Team is excited to share that our Vice President, Marilyn Bina, was recently honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the I-94 West Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards. Each year, the award is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the greater community and whose actions have therefore resulted in positive social impact.

We can’t think of anyone who more thoroughly exemplifies that definition than Marilyn.

Prime Advertising & Design is a member of numerous area chambers, including the I-94 West Chamber, and Marilyn has served on several chamber boards and committees in the area. She understands the importance of chamber partnership and is enthusiastic about sharing the benefits of membership with other businesses during her day-to-day activities with Prime.

Marilyn believes that the key to success is giving back and making a difference in people’s lives. Over the years, Marilyn has been involved with many community organizations, including Feed My Starving Children, CAER Food Shelf, CROSS, the Hanover Food Shelf, Great River Family Promise, The Nest: A Maternity Home, and Open Doors for Youth. She currently sits on the Guardian Angels Senior Services Board of Directors and served on the vestry for three years at Holy Trinity Church in Elk River. She served on the North Hennepin Community College Foundation Board for six years; one of those years, she was the Chair for the college’s annual Gala, which raises funds for scholarships. Marilyn was a member of the Maple Grove Rotary Club for eighteen years.

Marilyn has a special connection to non-profit organizations. She notes that her experience with Open Doors for Youth has been especially impactful for her. Open Doors for Youth is a drop-in resource center, located in Elk River, serving youth ages 16 through 23 who are either homeless or experiencing housing instability. The drop-in center provides immediate assistance, services, and access to clothing, sleeping bags, hygiene supplies, and computer or internet. The organization also helps reintegrate youth with the community.

“I couldn’t stand to think of youth who didn’t have a home, who were sleeping in covered playground equipment or portable restrooms, wondering where they were going to take a shower or get something to eat,” Marilyn says. “Hearing things like this makes me want to make a difference. When you’re blessed, you need to help.”

Marilyn’s dedication and willingness to help others and make a positive difference has inspired others around her. Mark Murray, Prime’s President, CEO, and Founder – as well as Marilyn’s son – points out that Marilyn has been a mentor to so many, sharing a quote he’s heard from her often: If it’s going to be… it’s up to me.

“She sees ways to help others, even if it’s just a kind word or a recommendation. She’s always doing things for other people, not herself,” Mark says. “She never says no. That’s why she’s so well-respected, and it’s been fun to see her do what she does.”

The Business & Community Excellence Awards breakfast ceremony was held at the Medina Golf & Country Club in Medina, Minnesota, on Thursday, April 20. Several members of the Prime Team were on hand to show their support and celebrate with Marilyn.

Please join us in congratulating Marilyn Bina on her Lifetime Achievement Award.