At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we know that strong community partnerships are essential to helping our residents move from homelessness to hope. Few partners embody that spirit more fully than Walters Recycling & Refuse, a family-founded, community-driven company with deep roots in Anoka County and an unwavering commitment to giving back.
Founded in 1988 by brothers George and Greg Walter—who followed in the footsteps of their parents, Jack and Shirley—the company has grown from two trucks to one of the top 100 independent waste companies in the nation. But even as their reach expanded, Walters has remained steadfast in its focus on serving the local community.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Mike Moroz, CEO of Walters, to reflect on their history of support. “We were looking for ways to give back locally,” he shared. “As one of the largest waste and recycling providers in Anoka County, it was important to us that we invest in organizations close to home.” After connecting with then-Executive Director Julie Jeppson around 2017, Walters found a natural alignment with Stepping Stone’s mission to provide shelter and support to adults experiencing homelessness.
Since that first donation in December 2017, Walters has been a consistent and generous supporter. Their contributions have included sponsorships for our gala and golf tournaments, emergency funding to purchase meals for residents, and in-kind support like the donation of roll-off dumpsters and waste hauling services during renovations. Most recently, Walter’s saved us more than $1,600 by disposing of and recycling old mattresses during our shelter upgrade.
But it doesn’t stop there. Walters commitment goes beyond dollars and dumpsters. Their Vice President of Human Resources, Sandi Baker, recently joined our Board of Directors, further deepening the relationship and bringing her leadership and heart to the table. “Sandi was so excited to get involved,” Mike shared. “Our team takes pride in stepping up to help. When something needs to be done, they raise their hands and ask, ‘How can I help?’”
That culture of service is rooted in the values passed down by the Walter family and reflected across their organization—from their leadership to their drivers. And it’s not limited to Stepping Stone. Walter’s also supports Hope 4 Youth and other local nonprofits, regularly sending teams to cook meals and volunteer.
When asked about his personal connection to the area, Mike shared that he grew up in Coon Rapids and graduated from Coon Rapids High School. “Even though I live in the western suburbs now, Anoka County is still home in many ways,” he said. “And the Walter family is deeply connected here—their legacy is part of this community’s fabric.”
At Stepping Stone, we are incredibly grateful for this legacy. Walters reminds us that corporate support isn’t just about writing checks—it’s about building relationships, responding to needs, and believing in the dignity and potential of every neighbor.
We are proud to recognize Walters Recycling & Refuse as a true community champion and thank them for their years of partnership, generosity, and service.