Erika Boike is a motivational speaker, community leader, and event professional whose life and work are deeply rooted in resilience, connection, and purpose.

Her journey into speaking began after the tragic loss of her middle son, Charlie, a 17-year-old known for his empathy, athleticism, and love of hockey. When Charlie’s life was cut short in a car crash in 2022, Erika and her family were devastated. Yet even in their grief, they found strength in the community that surrounded them. Today, Erika carries Charlie’s spirit forward by inspiring others to find hope and connection even in the darkest moments.

Together with her husband, Jeff, and sons Drew and Lewis, Erika has worked to honor Charlie’s legacy through projects like Charlie’s Corner Community Sport Court—a space designed for hockey, lacrosse, and adaptive pickleball. What began as Charlie’s dream is now a mission to give back to the same community that carried their family through unimaginable loss.

Beyond her speaking, Erika has over 25 years of professional experience in hospitality, event planning, and community engagement. She currently serves as the Event Specialist for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud, where she plans large-scale fundraisers, including the region’s signature Mardi Gras gala. She also volunteers as Housing Director for the St. Cloud Norsemen NAHL hockey team, hosting players in her home and helping ensure a supportive environment for athletes. Erika has also recently accepted a position as a Board Member at Bri’s Lodge, a place that helps individuals cope with loss, supports their healing, nurtures their physical and emotional well-being, and brings hope for the future. 

At her core, Erika is a connector—whether she’s planning events, mentoring women, cheering from the hockey stands, or sharing her story from the stage. She’s passionate about honoring Charlie’s vision through future community foundations and initiatives, including family-driven projects like the Doxie Dash Races that raise funds and bring joy to local families. She also founded two local area scholarships, created a high school hockey award, and support both families and seniors in need during the holiday season. Erika and her husband Jeff also have hosted Norseman Hockey players at their home for the past 7 years, a past time they have greatly enjoyed.

When she’s not speaking or planning events, Erika enjoys traveling with her husband, celebrating milestones with her children (her oldest son Drew is recently engaged), and spending time with their beloved labs, Stella and Ranger.

Through every role she holds—mother, wife, professional, volunteer, and speaker—Erika embodies resilience, authenticity, and generosity. Her message is simple but powerful: even in loss, we can create light, and even in pain, we can find purpose.