Nonprofit Insert

Y s U d Neede

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U O Y Have et?

fits o r p n o n w Learn ho s in e v i l g n i t c are impa unity m m o c r ou

October 2015

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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U O Y e v a H et?

Y s U d Neede

This year marks the fifth year of this unique publication dedicated to the nonprofit sector. We are grateful to our nonprofit partners for the work they do and the impact they make every single day that can go unnoticed if you haven’t used a nonprofit service directly. This year‘s theme “Have you needed us yet?” highlights people who rely on these services and the amazing stories behind them.

We truly believe everyone benefits from nonprofits in our community.

From the symphony, homeless shelters, the zoo, transportation services, and much more, we create a stronger, more vibrant place to live for everyone.

This year marks the FM Area Foundation’s 55th anniversary, and we are honored to say we’ve given more than $38 million back to the community through grants and scholarships. Our work could not be done without the support of our donors, the community and nonprofits.

We’d like to recognize and thank The Forum and West Acres for helping increase awareness of the nonprofits in our community through this special magazine and Nonprofit Day. Please join us at Nonprofit Day on Sunday, Oct. 11, at West Acres to discover more about local nonprofits.

Thank you.

Please join us at this year’s

Nonprofit Day on

Sunday, October 11,

Noon to 6 p.m. at West Acres.

If you would like to join the FM Area Foundation’s Nonprofit mailing list, please contact Lexi Oestreich at lexi@areafounation.org.

Tim Beaton, Executive Director FM Area Foundation

Fargo, ND 701–241-4858 www.fargovtc.org Proudly supporting individuals with disabilities since 1962 001314115r1

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

107 7th St S | Moorhead, MN 56560

218-258-0555 www.reGROUPMN.org

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-Support Recovery - Volunteer -

Integrity, Advocacy and Empowerment

I am a catalyst.

Through giving, I invest in lives I may never meet.

I provide wings to soar.

Fill stomachs and souls.

I am the recipient of hope.

I’m a proven steward of your generosity

A grateful partner in your kindness.

A voice for community needs. I am a link between people and purpose.

Because you gave, I view the world through a new lens.

I learned about giving because I received a gift from you.

We are the FM Area Foundation. fm. areafoundation @FMAreaFnd 701.234.0756

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areafoundation.org

The FM Area Foundation, a community foundation serving Cass and Clay counties, is a publicly supported nonprofit organization operated by and for the benefit of our area.

The FM Area Foundation supports the areas of: Arts, Culture and Creativity Basic Human Needs Community Building Education To learn how you can provide support to your favorite nonprofit through the FM Area Foundation, contact Greg Diehl, at greg@areafoundation.org or 701.234.0756.

Photos provided by Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra and the Salvation Army.

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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e d i s n I s ’ t Wha 6 Great Plains Food Bank provides food for children......................................................................... 7 Legacy Children’s Foundation supports at-risk students..............................................................10 Fargo-Moorhead Dorothy Day House of Hospitality gives Bart hope.........................................12 CCRI helps Mitchell fulfill his goals.................................................................................................16 Nokomis fosters development and learning for children of all abilities....................................18 Handi-Wheels Transportation helps DeAnn get to places she needs and wants to go.............20 Justin overcomes obstacles with TNT..............................................................................................23 FM Area Foundation celebrates new location and 55th anniversary.............................................

Association of Fundraising Professionals Northern Plains Chapter invites you to our 2015 National Philanthropy Day on Thursday, November 19th at the Fargo Holiday Inn

More than 30 Programs and Services including: ChildCare Aware of MN



Head Start



Family & Community Svcs.



Homelessness Prevention and Assistance



Rainbow Bridge Safe Exchange/Visitation Center



Clay County Seniors



Lakes & Prairies Free Tax Site



Medicare Part D counseling



Outreach and application assistance: SNAP MNsure …

and more!

www.lakesandprairies.net 4

The events that day include training for beginner and experienced fundraisers and our 2015 Chapter Philanthropy Honorees.

Visit our website at AFPNorthernPlains.org for more details

Thank you to the many volunteers, businesses, and community organizations, whose generosity of time and talent continue to make a real difference to children, families, seniors and communities throughout our service area.

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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

Fargo Area Dollars for Scholars awards $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from the six Fargo High Schools: Davies, Fargo North, Fargo South, Oak Grove, Shanley and Woodrow Wilson. The funds are provided through dollars raised in Fargo by people who believe in the importance of continued education.

Since 1991, Fargo Area Dollars for Scholars has awarded over one-thousand $1,000 scholarships to Fargo students to attend a vocational school, college, or university of his or her choice.

DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS LEADERSHIP RECOGNIZED Congratulations to the 52 students from Fargo’s six high schools.

The 2015 winners of the Fargo Area Dollars for Scholars $1,000 scholarships.

Thank you to our 2015 Valedictorian Sponsors

• Otter Tail Corporation • Bell State Bank & Trust • Cass County Electric Cooperative • Dr. Jeffery Harvey • JDP Electric, Inc .

• West Acres Development, LLP • Dr. and Mrs . Danielson • Scheels All Sports • Wells Fargo Bank • Border States Electric • Choice Financial • Wanzek Construction • Sheldon Green Craig Brye

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Dale Lian Dave and Sandra Wiest Dr. Dennis and Patricia Hetland General Equipment & Supplies, Inc. Northern Technologies, Inc Dr. Richard and Mary Warner R .D. Offutt Company RDO Equipment Co. Starion Financial Gerald and Lou Richardson Ella May Reames Fund Elmer and Kaya Berg Foundation Lela and Alice Underbakke Fund Neil Provencher Fund

Fargo Area Dollars for Scholars is a program of the Fargo Public Schools Development Foundation, www.fargoschoolsfoundation.org.

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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Welcome Home FM Area Foundation celebrates new location and 55th anniversary

By Courtney Larson, Communications and Marketing Officer

On Sept. 22, 2015, the FM Area Foundation celebrated a new location and 55th anniversary with a ribbon cutting and an open house. Nonprofits, donors, fund holders, professional advisors, trustees, neighbors and community members visited the new space to share in the festivities.

It started with a name, a little money and some very big plans.

Live music by Tim “Off Duty” Eggebraaten filled the parking lot as he entertained the crowd with classic hits and easy listening tunes. Concordia Catering provided a beautiful and delicious spread of appetizers and desserts, while Sidestreet Grille and Pub quenched guests’ thirst. Dan Francis

Photo credit to Dan Francis Photography

snapped photos of attendees sporting their complimentary “The Future is Bright” sunglasses.

The FM Area Foundation moved to its new location at 409 7th St. S, Fargo, in April of this year. This is the first time in Welcome Home: Cont’d on page 22

A Regional Nonprofit Developer of Affordable Housing

Serving Communities in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Beyond!

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“Improving lives and creating communities by developing housing for those most in need.”

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Our Mission: Save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

North Dakota Chapter | afspnd@gmail.com

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Friday Delight:

A Real Story of Hope

Great Plains Food Bank provides food for children

By Marcia Paulson, Director of Marketing and Development

A teacher at a school that utilizes the Great Plains Food Bank BackPack Program recently shared this story.

“It’s not unusual for students to fidget and squirm on a Friday afternoon, but one day a little boy was so excited I had to ask about the reason for his excitement.

“I fully expected him to say that someone was coming to visit, or that he was going to a birthday party over the weekend. Imagine my shock when he looked me straight in the eye and asked ‘Do we get the bags of food today?’ I responded that yes, it was Friday, and he would get the bag on his way out of school. ‘Great’ he said with a smile. He then started to hum and continue to work on his math worksheet.

“Some children are furtive about getting the food and quickly stuff it in their backpacks. This child, however, was clearly excited about getting the food that day.

When I asked why this made him so happy, he told me that he had several siblings at home and loved getting the bag of food because it helped his family. He told me he shared the food with his siblings so his parents could pay rent and keep the car running.

“This child wasn’t embarrassed or ashamed about being a part of the BackPack Program. In fact, it was exactly the opposite- he was excited to do something grownup and provide a basic need for his family.

“Every Friday I see children, who might otherwise go hungry, get Friday Delight: Cont’d on page 8

Join the fun!

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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GREAT PLAINS FOOD BANK BACKPACK PROGRAM

nutritional help over the weekend. Every Monday I see these same children come to school ready to learn because they were able to put food in their stomachs.

The Great Plains Food Bank has stepped in to fill a need that teachers have seen for a long time. Many of us have prayed for a program like the BackPack Program because we simply didn’t have the means to provide for each student on our own.”

Currently, more than 8,000 children in Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo school districts qualify for, and greatly rely on the free and reduced school lunch program to meet their daily nutritional needs. But on the weekends and over the summer months, many of these children struggle with hunger.

If you would like to learn more about the Great Plains Food Bank BackPack Program, contact Cathy Herbold at 232.6219 or visit greatplainsfoodbank.org.

The Great Plains Food Bank BackPack Program is designed to meet the needs of hungry children at times when other resources are not available. It is tested

Handi-Wheels Transportation, Inc. Do you have a doctor’s appointment but no way of getting there?

Handi-Wheels can help.

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Operating since 1975, Handi-Wheels provides transportation services to elderly, disabled, and low income populations.

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

and proven effective childhood hunger.

in

alleviating

The program is simple. Students are recommended for the program by teachers or school personnel who see firsthand their nutritional needs. The Great Plains Food Bank engages volunteers to fill the food bags and then they deliver them to the 1,400 children participating in 30 schools each week. The food is child-friendly, easily consumed and discreetly given to the children each Friday.

The outcomes are amazing. Children who participate in the BackPack Program report feeling less hungry on the weekends (90%); parents report improvements in their child’s health (87%), and behavior (74%); and school personnel report increased improvement in academic performance (78%), and concentration (82%) - ultimately increasing their success in the classroom.

It currently costs just $5.00 to feed a child over the weekend which includes food for 2 breakfasts, 3 meals, 4 snacks and 2 beverages. The cost to support one child through the school year (38 weeks) is $190 and over the summer (12 weeks) it’s $60.

Did

You

? w o Kn

• The FM Area Foundation has more than 250 funds created by individuals, families, nonprofits and businesses.

• Community foundations are grantmaking public charities dedicated to improving the lives of people in a defined local geographic area. They bring together financial resources to support effective nonprofits in their communities, and play a key role in identifying and solving community needs. The FM Area Foundation is the community foundation serving Cass and Clay counties.

• In 1960, Arthur Cupler started the FM Area Foundation as a vehicle for philanthropy that would allow residents to give back and support the needs of this area. At the time, it was one of only 150 community foundations in the country.

• We have 45 scholarship funds that provide financial assistance to students in our area every year.

• Endowments are permanent funds that preserve contributions as principal and invest

MISSION:

To enrich our community by building partnerships, promoting philanthropy and serving as a trusted resource now and for future generations.

VISION:

A community where everyone thrives.

Community of Care

“caring for people by partnering with rural communities”

Care Coordination • Referrals, information, assistance for yourself, your parent or a friend

Medicare Part D Drug Plan Enrollment

• Since 1960, we’ve granted more than $38 million to create stronger, more vibrant communities. In addition to being a funder, our role is to convene people who share a common interest or goal, collaborate with community partners and be a catalyst for positive change.

Volunteer Program

Your local 24 hour Helpline linking you to community and volunteer resources and offering listening and support

• Including transportation to medical appointments

Faith Community Nurse Program

2-1-1 or 701-235-7335(SEEK)

www.communityofcarend.com

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• The FM Area Foundation makes grants to charitable organizations in the areas of: arts, culture and creativity; basic human needs; community building; and education.

earnings back into the community as grants.

90% of our funds are endowed. Donors who create or add to an endowment do so because they understand the importance of supporting the institution not only during their lifetime, but for generations to come.

Arthur (in the mall) 701/967-8502

Member of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Casselton (in Bremer Bank) 701/347-0032

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Giving back to the communities we serve.

It’s in our nature.

At Bremer Bank, our commitment to service extends beyond clients. Our employees are deeply passionate about improving the health of our communities and the well-being of our neighbors.

From helping out local food shelves and flood relief efforts to lending a hand at local charities and nonprofits, employees at Bremer help ensure the vibrancy and vitality of our communities.

Fargo 492-2600 • North Fargo 239-5935 Moorhead 299-7600 • Casselton 347-4483 800-908-BANK (2265) • Bremer.com Member FDIC. © 2015 Bremer Financial Corporation. All rights reserved.

FMAreaFoundationNonprofitDay.indd 1

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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9/15/15 2:24 PM

Reaching Their Potential Legacy Children’s Foundation supports at-risk students

By Courtney Larson, FM Area Foundation

“It’s so great to be able to check the box that says I graduated, Ms. Dehne.,” said a Legacy student who recently graduated high school.

‘Ms. Dehne’ is Mary Jean Dehne and she and her husband, Jeff, started Legacy Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit that supports at-risk students to improve high school graduation rates. “We are both educators and we want to pass on the values and opportunities that we had as children,” Dehne said. “We are trying to recreate the legacy of our parents through this nonprofit as an outreach to young people who might not have the same opportunities we did.”

Students are referred to the program by current Legacy

students, parents, school personnel and community members, and have to meet three of the four criteria to qualify for the Legacy Children’s Foundation or two of the four with a professional referral. The criteria are to have a GPA of 2.0 or lower, be within a specific family income, a 50 percent or lower on the MAP reading or Math test, and a personal situation that is preventing a student from achieving their fullest potential.

Legacy Children’s Foundation was started at the Dehne’s kitchen table with a group of students Mary Jean was teaching in 2010.

Students helped develop the program and continue to make up part of the Board of Directors.

“We believe the children are the

Elks Camp Grassick Serves children and adults with various disabilities and special needs

“The memories created camp, whether it’s some tyat pe of therapy or some type of activ , is positively embedded in thity e minds of the campers that will be cherished for a lifetime.”

Owned & Operated by North Dakota Elks Association 701-327-4251 • elkscampgrassick.com • facebook.com/campgrassick 10

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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Speech/Language Services • Reading Instruction Occupational Therapy Activities • Swimming Instruction Supervised Recreation • Adaptive Technology Services • Craft Activities

owners of what’s going on here, because they helped develop it,” Dehne said.

The program is a simple reward system.

Students involved in Legacy have seven expectations they need to meet every day in order to earn a reward, such as money or a trip. Junior high school students can earn $5 a day and high school students $10. At the end of two weeks if the students have met all the expectations they get paid. Half of the check goes to them and the other half into a savings account, which they receive only upon completion of a high school diploma.

The expectations are: 1. Pass all your classes. 2. Have a minimum GPA of 2.0. 3.

Have a clean attendance record at school with no detention. 4. Be active in an after school activity or have a part-time job. 5. Be clean on a random drug test. 6. Complete a minimum of one hour of service work per week. 7. Attend the weekly Legacy meeting.

“We think our standards are set pretty high. A lot of our graduates say to keep the standards high, because that’s what’s going to help kids be successful,” Dehne said.

If the students receive 80 percent or more of their paychecks throughout the school year they get to travel in the summer to places

“Join us in Building Stronger Neighborhoods”

like New York City, Boston, Minneapolis, Washington D.C., St. Louis, National Parks and Duluth. “We’re trying to create for them an opportunity to see and explore the world because we know through research those experiences will directly improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary, problem solving skills and all kinds of avenues to further flourish in today’s world,” Dehne said. “Significant basic skill improvement is accomplished through intense personal work at the Sylvan Learning Center after school and during the summer months.”

Dehne is grateful for the support of community members who use their resources, both time and money, to make a difference in the lives of children in this area.

She summarized the mission of the program by saying, “We are trying to impact the mindset of young people who often feel hopeless and without value. We want to empower them to understand they have tremendous value and worth if they take

Over 200 families each week

advantage of opportunities to become educated young leaders. What we hope to create is a level playing field for young people who otherwise wouldn’t have those opportunities to get a step up on life.”

The Legacy Children’s Foundation recently set up an endowment fund through the FM Area Foundation. Gifts to this fund not only support the work of the Legacy Children’s Foundation forever, but they also can qualify for the ND Charitable Income Tax Credit, providing the donor with a 40% tax credit.

CHI Friendship Nurturing Abilities, Achieving Dreams.

801 Page Drive in Fargo (701) 235-8217 Supporting People with Disabilities

Your support helps at risk children and families...

• Build dreams • Create connections • Increase food security • Foster a sense of caring • Acquire basic living skills • Develop a sense of belonging • Improve academic & social skills • Gain confidence & leadership skills

CHI Friendship is a nonprofit organization that supports people with disabilities. We provide the full spectrum of developmental disability services which include individualized

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Learn more about CHARISM and give at WWW.CHARISM.ORG 2601 12th Avenue South Suite A, Fargo, ND 701-356-0260

comprehensive residential and vocational supports, allowing for full community participation.

Thank you to the community for embracing our mission by supporting all people to have meaningful employment, integrated environments, and community inclusion.

You can get involved with CHI Friendship by volunteering, donations, and/or applying for employment.

Apply on-line at www.chifriendship.com FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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Of Suspenders & Men:

Getting Back on Your Feet with Homelessness & Terminal Illness Fargo-Moorhead Dorothy Day House of Hospitality gives Bart hope

By Elizabeth Olson, Shelter Director

It was one of those conversations you get to have when working the overnight shift. Most of the shelter guests are snoozing by 1 a.m., so there is more time to visit with guys like Bart who had just walked two miles back from work. He was thawing his fingers over the dining room radiator, as even good gloves are no match for the bitter cold of a January night in FargoMoorhead. We visited about how tremendously grateful he was to have found a job after two months of searching.

homeless for the majority of his 56 years of life. In an achingly brief way, he summarized that each year since he was 19 had weighed him down with a little more guilt, a little more shame.

He talked about having PTSD, and it was clear that he had survived unspeakably painful things. Even through his selfdeprecation and sorrow, he rocked back and forth between hope and belief.

“And the people at Blackbird Pizza, I mean the other employees there,” he said, “they don’t look down on me, even though I’m ‘just’ a dishwasher! It’s like you guys here at the Dorothy Day House.

You don’t treat us like scary homeless dudes. You help us with a place to stay and to get back on our feet.”

To celebrate his bravery in voicing this dream, we took his picture, ensuring his trademark suspenders were featured.

He paused a few moments, then added, “I’m not always the best at getting back on my feet.”

“Be sure to get my suspenders in the picture.

Everywhere I’ve been, people know me by ‘em.

Worn ‘em since I was 19. They’re just…who I am. Me.”

From what Bart went on to describe, it was clear that he was actually amazing at getting back on his feet. He had been

Fraser, Ltd. “Supporting children, 2902 South University Drive youth, andND adults Fargo, 58103on their701-232-3301 life’s journey to independence. ” www.fraserltd.org

I always think back on this night as the first of many poignant, illuminating conversations I would be privileged to have with Bart during his lifetime.

We met often during his November 2014- June 2015 stay at the Dorothy Day House (DDH), working on finding housing, steady employment, and fighting through triggers of PTSD: hearing doors slam, being turned down for apartments, feelings of rejection, shame, guilt, etc. Yet, Bart’s resilience continued to

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MISSION: A caring, Christian community that shelters, nourishes, and empowers people who are homeless and hungry.

Join us for our annual Soup Supper Fundraiser on Nov. 17th at St. Joseph’s Church in Moorhead from 4:30p – 7:30p Visit our website at www.fmddh.org for more details and to get involved!

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“I would like to get back on my feet,” he told me.

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

ride through these waves.

from then, the following Monday.

In May 2015, Bart went to Homeless Health for a check-up of his perpetually pesky gallbladder. The clinic staff and Bart were deeply shocked to discover that he had cancer in his liver. Bart began isolating himself and even checked out of DDH. After giving him some space for a few days, we reached out and looked for him. He agreed to come back and talk. We sat on the porch. He wore black sunglasses the whole time, staring at the noisy 5 p.m. traffic on 8th Street.

That Monday I got a call from Bart in a panic, saying that he was being admitted to the hospital. We worked with Fargo HRA, and they allowed me to do the check-in and to have him sign the lease in the hospital.

“I guess it’s about time my lifestyle caught up with me,” Bart said. “What do you say to a guy like me, who spent my life drinking, smoking, sleeping outside, and running away from everything?”

“I say that homelessness and cancer are very similar,” was my response, “because people do not deserve, under any circumstance, to go through either of them.”

He tilted his head down. “Then why can’t I seem to get out of either of them?”

“Because we aren’t responded stubbornly.

done

yet,”

I

He gave a small smile and thanked me for the reminder.

Over the next two weeks, we worked like crazy and were fortunate that Fargo Housing & Redevelopment Authority had an efficiency apartment come open downtown, quite close to Roger Maris Cancer Center. When Kasye, the resident manager, told Bart they would be happy to have him call it home, he doubled over with the emotion that ran through him.

We set up a move-in date for three days

While Bart went through chemo for the next six days, Colin, a DDH Shelter Advocate, and I spruced up his apartment with household items we are fortunate to have community members donate to DDH. I showed Bart pictures of his place when we visited. Just by stepping into his hospital room, anyone could sense Bart’s frenzy of nervousness and excitement.

When the physician came to talk to Bart on Monday of the following week, the world stilled. He explained that the cancer had spread nearly everywhere in Bart’s body and that it was too advanced to benefit from further treatment. He estimated that Bart had about three weeks to live and that Bart would need 24/7 care to make his time comfortable and safe.

“But I haven’t gotten to spend even one day in my apartment,” Bart told me softly that afternoon.

Due to Bart having no local family or friends who would be able to care for him 24/7, Sanford’s case management team suggested Bart be transferred to Sanford’s Palliative Care Unit. Bart expressed that both his parents died in a hospital, so he did not want to go to PCU. In addition, even though the hospital staff went above and beyond to make Bart feel comfortable, with the beeping machines, different people coming and going, it was a nightmare of triggers for Bart’s PTSD. We consulted Hospice who

was more than ready to work with him but could not work with him if he was living alone in an apartment.

Within a couple days, Bart’s condition deteriorated so significantly that the doctor was not sure he would make it through the next three days, much less the three weeks he had initially estimated.

Bart was giving up; it was palpable. His goal of getting back on his feet was slipping away, along with his belief that he didn’t deserve to be homeless or have cancer.

On the hospital tray next to his bed laid Bart’s suspenders; the ones he had described to me seven months before that, “They’re just…who I am. Me.” It occurred to me these suspenders had done more than hold up his pants since he was 19; they had held Bart together.

He had once told me he was not always good at getting back on his feet. I had disagreed with him, as he had clearly made it through vulnerable, dangerous situations that would have crushed most people. Yet, seeing Bart lying in the hospital bed, it was clear that this was the first time in his life where the hope inside him, that had kept him going for 56 years, might not be enough to get him back up.

It was time to fight as hard as we could so that Bart would be able to fight for himself again. After about 100 phone calls, a miracle happened. Fargo HRA offered to open up a medical respite apartment at New Horizons Manor that was not quite ready yet, but it had the 24/7 home health care on site that Bart needed and was handicap accessible.

Because Bart could not work and had no Of Suspenders & Men: Cont’d on page 14

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13

income/health insurance to pay for home When a couple of us from DDH visited health services, Cass County Social Bart the next day, we could not believe Even when Services came to the hospital within our eyes. He was buzzing around an hour of our phone call and the apartment in his wheelchair, you have experienced approved him for a needs-based unpacking his stuff, and wearing horrible things for most of your program to pay for care. The a glittery blue wallet clipped home health agency, Tammy’s to his shirt. I asked where childhood, been homeless most Angels, normally needed two the wallet came from, and of your life, and have cancer in most weeks to set up staffing for he explained that he had new clients at New Horizons, wheeled himself 1 ½ blocks parts of your body, it is never too late but Tammy told me she to the dollar store and picked would do whatever it took to up a few things! I could not to believe in yourself and respect your have everything ready by the believe it. My incredulity dreams. Thank goodness for the many next morning. Hospice was continued when I visited him then able to work with him two days later. He was walking community agencies that partnered since Tammy’s Angels would around his apartment, making together to fight alongside Bart be there for him 24/7. a list of how he wanted to decorate and things he wanted to for the justice and peace We scheduled Bart to be discharged accomplish. The transformation he from the hospital and to move into he deserved. went through from homeless and sick his apartment at New Horizons the to housed and hopeful was incredible. next morning. As I left the hospital that evening, I prayed Bart would make it Throughout the next few weeks, Bart through the night. It haunted me to think continued to do much better than of Bart being so close to breaking out of his new apartment was indescribable. anyone could have dreamed. We His many helpers from Hospice and met regularly at the park next to his homelessness and not making it.

Tammy’s Angels got him settled in, and apartment, and one day he revealed Bart did make it. The journey was even though he was exhausted, he something that put his whole life rough, but seeing the incredulous look seemed happy. into perspective. on his face as he was wheeled into

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

“I had a twin brother, you know,” he said, out of the blue.

“We were identical. He died when we were 19. I couldn’t go home after that. I was always the black sheep of the family, but losing him, my other half, made the world too painful.

Anytime I tried to settle down, not be homeless anymore, I just couldn’t do it. The only way to cope was to numb and run.”

He continued, “I’m glad I ended up here. For the first time in my life, I really want to take care of myself. Maybe it’s messed up that it wasn’t until I got sick that I actually am trying to get better, even though they say I won’t.”

His next words were ones I will never forget: “You know, I think I’m just going to keep trying.

Keep eating those vegetables and to heck with being sleepy from morphine. As long as I’m trying to get better, I feel better.

And feeling better feels good.”

Even when you have experienced horrible things for most of your childhood, been homeless most of your life, and have cancer in most parts of your body, it is never too late to believe in yourself and respect your dreams.

Thank goodness for the many community agencies that partnered together to fight alongside Bart for the justice and peace he deserved.

Bart passed away in his apartment this year, having spent his last 27 days of life in his own apartment. He died with the knowledge that no one deserves to experience homelessness or cancer. He died feeling that he was worthy of compassion and dignity. He died treasuring his trademark suspenders. “They’re just… who I am. Me.”

Providing clothing, confidence, and career development tools to support women on their paths to success.

Fargo Boutique Hawley Boutique

219 NP Avenue, Fargo 701-478-8076

at REACH 421 5th St, Hawley

www.redrivervalley.dressforsuccess.org redrivervalley@dressforsuccess.org

Dress for Success® Red River Valley is a program of REACH, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

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Churches United for the Homeless provides safe shelter and supportive care. Our Community Center offers daily meals, support groups, and a place for fellowship.

Churches United serves families and individuals. love. grace. hospitality. service.

1901 1st Avenue North Moorhead, MN 56560 218.236.0372 www.churches-united.org 001311843r1

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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Reaching Independence CCRI helps Mitchell fulfill his goals What if you could not scratch an itch, turn on a light or wave hi to a friend? How would you feel if you needed to rely on someone to perform even the simplest of tasks for you?

By Jody Hudson, Development Director

For most, it is almost impossible to imagine—but for Mitchell it is reality.

When he was 23 years old, Mitchell had an accident that caused a C4 spinal cord injury, which resulted in him living as a quadriplegic. He utilizes an electric wheelchair that he operates with his head, and a computer that he operates with his voice, but beyond that, he needs assistance with practically all aspects of daily living.

When you are 23 years old, questioning if you have to live in a nursing home is not what you think about.

After a long stint in the hospital and 10 months in a rehab center, Mitchell needed to find a place to live. There weren’t many options around his hometown and his parents

couldn’t complete all his cares.

“When I came across a place in Moorhead called Creative Care for Reaching Independence, the name alone almost sold me…I mean that’s exactly what I was looking for,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell has been with CCRI for almost 8½ years. “My life is not over. CCRI fulfills all my cares and needs, I don’t reside in a nursing home—I live in a house in a nice neighborhood, this past December I graduated from North Dakota State University with a B.S. degree in business administration. I’m happy to say that in May, on the anniversary of my accident, I began the next phase of my life and rejoined the workforce.”

“Without an agency like CCRI, I really don’t know where I would be right now. If you aren’t familiar with CCRI it may be because you haven’t needed them yet. I can tell you one thing…my current state wasn’t in my plans either. It’s great to know there are places like CCRI out there,” Mitchell said.

THE MASTER CHORALE OF FARGO-MOORHEAD

We save wildlife and their habitats through engaging visitor experiences, demonstrated conservation leadership and unique educational opportunities. We believe the natural world is critical to human health and happiness. By connecting people to nature, we inspire our community to learn, care, and act.

Come and see what you’ve been missing!

www.redriverzoo.org 701-277-9240

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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About CCRI: CCRI has a long history of providing person-centered services to people with disabilities. CCRI was founded in 1977 by

accomplishments. Their role is to provide

Whether it is the work of one, or the work

the necessary supports to build the

of many, CCRI truly make a difference

foundation for success and to celebrate

in the lives of those they serve. Team

the steps along the way.

members are passionate about fulfilling

a group of forward-looking parents who

CCRI is fortunate to receive support from

had similar dreams for their sons and

our partners and friends throughout the

daughters. For this group of parents, CCRI

community. Those who support the work

provided a family-like setting where their

they do recognize that it is more than a

children were given the opportunity and

helping hand, it is an investment. It is an

encouragement to be participants in the

investment in the

community. They knew that participation

potential of many.

was the key to acceptance.

It is an investment

into more than a place to call home.

CCRI encourages the people they serve to dream and take great pride in their

that to

build

of

enhancing

and

enriching the lives and learning of people with disabilities.

our

communities while enriching

all

of

our lives.

She’s eager for real world skills.

To find out more about the business world, and acquire the knowledge she needs to succeed. Students get hands on experiences to help prepare them to compete in the workforce.

Learn more about Junior Achievement at www.jaum.org.

Contact us: 701-241-8628 or staci@jaum.org

Your gift.Their future.

mission

continues

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Help for those lost in another’s addiction

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Through the years CCRI has developed

CCRI’s

Interventions & Counseling

111 7th St S • Moorhead, MN 56560 218-287-2089 www.lostandfoundministry.org FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

17

Maci and McKenna Thrive at Nokomis

Nokomis fosters development and learning for children of all abilities

By Jane Greminger, Nokomis Program Director, and Lisa Lindeman

Maci and McKenna had twin to twin transfusion syndrome when their mother Lisa was pregnant with them. Maci was the “donor” meaning she was deprived of fluids and nutrients and McKenna was the “recipient” meaning she was over loaded with fluids. Lisa was referred to a specialist at 16 weeks to start fluid reductions on McKenna.

“After my 5th reduction, Kenna’s water broke and the girls were born 4 days later. Maci was 1 lb 3 oz and Kenna was 1 lb 3 oz and they were 11 ½ and 12 inches long. This began our three month NICU rollercoaster,” Lisa said.

The list of health issues the girls had was quite intense. The first month there was so much uncertainty whether they would survive. Kenna has CP because of this and is very delayed developmentally.

“Looking for daycare for a special needs child is very difficult…then I found Nokomis,” Lisa said.

Due to the priority Nokomis places on serving families with children with special needs--developmental, physical and behavioral/emotional, the girls were able to move up on Nokomis’ waiting list.

The teachers at Nokomis go out of their way to do what is best for Maci and McKenna, finding a schedule that works

for them and providing them with extra developmental activities suggested by their occupational, speech, and physical therapists. The girls’ teachers update Lisa on all the highlights of the day, as well as any challenges so they can work together to find solutions.

“Kenna is not able to stand, walk or even sit on her own. Even eating is a struggle for her. Nokomis has made many accommodations to help Kenna function in her classroom with her peers. The staff are so patient with her and willing to work on suggestions her therapists suggest to help Kenna get better,” Lisa said.

McKenna’s teachers are very good about accommodating her need for

We provide affordable medical and dental services.

Call for an appointment today.

301 NP Avenue, Fargo, North Dakota 58102 715 N 11th St Suite 106B Moorhead, Minnesota Phone (701) 271-3344 • famhealthcare.org Accredited by the Joint Commission

Affordable, quality healthcare for every person.

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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a special diet of soft foods that are mashed, substituted with soft cereal, or chopped into fine pieces. Because she does not have full use of the muscles in her hands, the teachers feed her. All

activities and events are adapted so she does everything all the other kids in her classroom do. McKenna has a special seat to sit in during circle time and activities, as well as for meals. McKenna

is using many more words now and her teachers write them down so they can keep track of how her vocabulary has progressed. They help strengthen her language skills by continuing to use those words with her and exposing her to all kinds of literacy experiences.

This is just one of many stories of families coming to Nokomis for help to get through challenges in life, whether it’s financial or medical. Approximately 70 percent of our families deal with financial and health issues as well as other special circumstances. Because of these unique situations, Nokomis families are in need of high quality care to improve their children’s development and learning.

These are the kids that Nokomis teachers love, teach and nurture every day.

Without Nokomis, families like Lisa’s would have nowhere else to go. Nokomis makes all the difference for a family working to make a new start.

McKenna (left) and Maci (right)

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YOU can make a difference in a shelter pet’s life!

· Donate · Adopt · Volunteer · Foster

1201 28th Ave N Fargo, ND 58102 701-239-0077 www.homewardonline.org

Rescue. Shelter. Protect. Rehome.

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

19

How to Live on My Own is the Greatest Lesson Learned

Handi-Wheels Transportation helps DeAnn get to places she needs and wants to go

By Kerri Spiering, Community Outreach Manager

Prom queen and head cheerleader might not be the first thought most people have when they meet DeAnn Brothers.

You see, DeAnn has been using a wheelchair since the age of 5 as she was born with cerebral palsy in 1966. Being independent and strong are two values instilled in DeAnn from a young age.

When she was 5, her family sent her to the Anne Carlsen School. “My mom thought it best for me to go to the Anne Carlsen School because I’d be more accepted there because back then schools did not accept people with disabilities as easily as they do now” says DeAnn. According

20

to her mom, Jeanette Brothers, “This was a difficult decision for her to be away from home so much, but we had to keep thinking what was best for her life forward.” She excelled in all she took on at school both academically and socially.

“She had so many accomplishments in school,” stated her mom, including being head cheerleader and prom queen.

“Some things were very difficult but not once did she not want to move forward.”

After graduation, DeAnn went to the Courage Center in Golden Valley, Minn., to learn independent living skills. From there she moved to Fargo and has been living here on her own since 1989. In 1993,

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

she started volunteering with HandiWheels Transportation and has been a fixture in the office ever since. “I like the idea of helping people. It’s always been important to me because I’m in a situation where I need help because of my cerebral palsy, so I want to give back” says DeAnn. DeAnn also utilizes Handi-Wheels as one of her means of transportation. “Without Handi-Wheels I would not be able to get out as much. It’s vital to me, and that’s why it was started in the first place because people were not able to get out and go places” DeAnn said.

DeAnn says she’s learned many important lessons in life but the one that sticks out most for her is, “it takes a lot of hard work and struggle to be independent. How to live on my own is the greatest lesson I’ve learned.” She says she owes this all to her mom, “She taught me how to be

strong and how to keep going and not give up.” Her mom said, “My dream for her was to live independently and have a happy life. She has done more than accomplished this through many tough times. Her attitude and genuineness is remarkable.”

We depend on deliberate acts of generosity to ensure care is available to anyone who needs it.

Please consider supporting Hospice of the Red River Valley’s mission to provide comfort at the end of life’s journey. www.hrrv.org | (800) 237-4629

“I want to live like everyone else and have the independence like everyone else” states DeAnn. Transportation services, like HandiWheels, help DeAnn maintain her independence by assisting her in getting to the places she needs and wants to go.

We grant the wishes of children with lifethreatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. www.northdakota.wish.org | 701.280.9474 FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

21

Welcome Home: Cont’d from page 6

the Foundation’s 55-year history it has owned a building. The new space offers a community room, sponsored by Brad and Carol Schlossman, which can be used by nonprofit and community organizations free of charge. A patio in the back of the building, sponsored by the Mohr family and Dacotah Paper Co., offers a unique and friendly outdoor meeting space.

The celebration also highlighted the 55th anniversary and the donors and fundholders who have made the FM Area Foundation what it is today.

Thank you to everyone who attended the ribbon cutting and open house and for everyone who has made the move to the beautiful, new location possible.

If you would like to learn how you can make a difference in our community through the FM Area Foundation, contact Development Officer, Greg Diehl at greg@areafoundation.org or 701.234.0756.

It started with a name, a little money and some very big plans. Since Arthur Cupler created the FM Area Foundation in 1960, more than $38 million has been given back to the community through grants and scholarships. Cupler’s vision for the FM Area Foundation was to be a medium by which persons of large or small means may devote funds to charitable institutions. Throughout the years, more than 250 individuals, families, nonprofits and businesses have created funds to create stronger, more vibrant communities not only during their lifetime, but for generations to come.

Rite Care™ Children’s Language Disorder Center Speech/Communication Disorder Treatments for Preschool Children Speech Pathology treatments cover a wide variety of language disorders.

Our Speech Pathologists are ND licensed and supplied by Sanford Medical.

Children 2-7 years are treated. No other restrictions apply.

As all treatments are entirely FREE to the patient and his/her family, support donations are encouraged and welcomed. Rite Care™ is IRS 501©3 approved and tax deductible. All management serves voluntarily. All donations go to and for patient care.

1405 N 3rd St Fargo, ND 58102 | Email: fargomasons@yahoo.com Phone: (701) 235-7875 | M-Th, 8 a.m. - Noon

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

An Extraordinary Downtown Stroll Justin overcomes obstacles with TNT

By Kim Pladson, Executive Director

Justin is 19 years old and was born a twin. Justin loves Case IH and always wears a warm smile. Due to his cerebral palsy, Justin has endured countless surgeries, spending years in his wheel chair. Justin discovered TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics and began training with a gate trainer walker to strengthen his legs.

TNT is organized for the purpose of providing all boys and girls, regardless of age, financial, mental or physical ability the opportunity to experience the benefits of gymnastics and fitness while becoming part of our family of athletes. The officers, directors, staff and

volunteers

are

committed

to

TNT: Cont’d on page 24

Are Your Ducks in a Row?

National Estate Planning Awareness Week OCTOBER 19-25, 2015

photo: Ann Prum/© THIRTEEN NATURE: An original DUCKumentary

We Can Help!

Contact us today to receive a FREE estate planning organizer.

Ann Clark prairiepublic.org

Director of Development 800-359-6900 ext. 510 aclark@prairiepublic.org

FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

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helping children to reach full potential

and adults of all abilities, representing

through utilization of exercise or the

the comradely of all athletes at TNT.

sport

of

gymnastics

to

encourage

expanded opportunities.

On May 13, 2015, Broadway was lined with supporters who included: Justin’s

At TNT, Justin met and formed a

family, friends from CCRI and TNT,

friendship with Specer Uetz who trained

media, and locals who had heard his

him.

This allowed him to set a goal

story. They provided their support and

during the winter of 2014-2015 to be able

cheered him on as he took his first steps

to walk Downtown Broadway for the first

down Broadway.

time in his life.

Justin’s story reached and inspired

Justin wanted to raise awareness about

thousands and our community embraced

TNT and individuals of all abilities, hoping

his ability and perseverance. Justin

his goal would encourage others. He has

and the relay team were awarded a

walked before, but never in downtown

medal by Metals for Medals. A speech

Fargo and wanted to do the walk before

was presented by Mayor Mahoney and

his friend Spencer left for UND Medial

Tom McDougall, TNT Kid’s Fitness &

School. Due to a routine surgery, Justin

Gymnastics Board President honoring

was not able to walk the entire span of

Justin and the work of TNT. Justin’s

Broadway, so a relay team was formed to

fortitude to overcome obstacles in

allow him to cross the finish line. Justin

mobility is just one of the miracles that

was supported in his relay by children

we have the chance to observe at TNT!

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FM Area Foundation • October 10, 2015

Unlock Potential through Movement at TNT’s Fall Open Gym OCTOBER 23rd • 7-9pm Halloween Open Gym NOVEMBER 6th • 7-8:30pm “Minions” Open Gym 20th • 7-9pm “Movin’ & Groovin’ for Hunger” Open Gym DECEMBER 4th • 7-9pm “PJ Night” Open Gym 11th • 7-9pm “Winter Wonderland” Open Gym Prices: $10 per child (craft & snack included)