Tim Polakowski is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Monarch Grief Center and a licensed grief counselor/social worker whose work provides hope and healing for those who have suffered unimaginable loss. He earned a Fulbright Scholarship, a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and an MBA online, equipping him with both clinical expertise and strategic leadership skills.

Prior to founding Monarch, Polakowski led the social service team at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, supporting dying patients and their families with compassion and care. At Monarch Grief Center, he has grown a nonprofit dedicated to professional grief support, ensuring individuals and families have access to the resources and counseling they need during life’s most difficult moments.

His recognition as a 20 Under 40 honoree reflects his extraordinary dedication to service, leadership, and creating meaningful systems of care that uplift and support the community.