Congratulations to Forrest Lang on being named the 2025 Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service recipient!

Forrest Lang has had a lifelong pursuit of selfless service. He’s always there to lend a helping hand, a mindset he inherited from his mom, Kelly Rhodes. “She always is willing to give of herself,” Lang said, noting how her influence inspired him to freely give one of the most valuable resources–his time.

Lang is this year’s recipient of the Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service.

A Triway graduate and Ohio State alum, Lang now teaches at Ohio State ATI and helps manage his family’s farm, ADF Acres, with his wife, Morgan.

Coming from a family of business owners, Lang was encouraged to contact the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce when starting an axe-throwing business. That introduction quickly connected him to local business professionals and Chamber programs. After hosting a ribbon cutting and Young Professionals event, “the floodgate kind of opened,” for further opportunities. While he has since moved on from the axe-throwing business, his Chamber involvement has only grown.

Lang remains active in events and programs like Young Professionals, Business After Hours, Leadership Wooster, and Woosterfest. In 2023, he joined the Woosterfest committee, while Morgan joined the Home & Garden Show committee. They enjoy volunteering together at both events because it allows them to give back while spending quality time together.

"Forrest is the epitome of selflessness, always giving his time and energy without hesitation. Whether it’s decorating our building for Christmas, serving on the Woosterfest committee, or quietly contributing to the Home & Garden Show, he’s there whenever we need him,” said Samira Zimmerly, Chamber President. “His dedication is invaluable, and we are beyond grateful for his unwavering support and tireless efforts in making our community better."

One of Lang’s favorite ways to contribute has been through decorating the Chamber building at Christmastime, a tradition he began in 2021. His love for holiday decorating started at age 14, when his family needed a bit more Christmas spirit. Lang said it is incredibly rewarding to give in this way, and he always feels most accomplished when he’s making somebody else smile.

For those considering volunteering, Lang advises, “Make sure you can commit to it,” and choose “something you want to do.”

The Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service is presented annually to an individual in memory of former Chamber President, Mike Lezak. In recognition of his or her contributions as a Chamber volunteer by actively participating on committees and activities.

2025 Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service - Forrest Lang