Annual Report 2004

Northwest Minnesota Foundation

Building a Foundation for Place 2004 Report to the Community

2004

Building A Foundation For Place

Message from the Chair and President

The Importance of Natural Partners This past year, NORTHWEST MINNESOTA FOUNDATION has been working hard, implementing the new Quality of Place initiatives. It has been a bold undertaking. Not only does it represent the foundation’s unique role in the region, it represents the importance of collaboration and mutual support that creates opportunities for success in northwest Minnesota.

Today it is essential for all of us who are working to develop the region’s comKip Fontaine, munity assets Chairman of the Board — the foundation, individuals, organizations, businesses and local governments — to seize on these opportunities for our future benefit.

We can learn from each other; we can work together to identify critical issues; we can develop positive responses to

these issues; and together we can implement positive actions.

organization is an important asset as well as an opportunity.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s unique role as a regional institution allows us to focus on broad needs and issues. As a natural partner for every community, the foundation’s success is vital because it represents a valued asset.

Although responding to a whole region is a difficult task, we see the challenge as a way to make a real difference. As residents of northwest Minnesota, we can appreciate the resources Northwest Minnesota Foundation is capable of delivering on our behalf — experience, expertise, objectivity, and financial support.

You might ask: How do we use our regional resources and capabilities?

How can it really benefit such a large and diverse geographic area? A critical issue identified in Hallock, may some day be John S. Ostrem, President addressed through a process developed in Park Rapids, which can then be applied to a similar issue affecting Crookston in the future.

This regional characteristic of our

But more importantly, we know that the foundation provides opportunities for regional investment and partnership — investment that is proactive and partnership that creates real ownership in our future.

We think that the activities described in these pages, outlining the foundation’s investments of time, energy, knowledge and finances, will demonstrate how our use of regional resources forms the cornerstone for Building a Foundation for Place. Thank you for all of your contributions as natural partners in this effort. Together, we can do more to develop our shared community assets.

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Building A Foundation For Place

TABLE OF CONTENTS Board and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 The Four Asset Areas of Quality of Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Social Assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Leadership and Nonprofit Training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Structural Assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Natural Assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Economic Assets` . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Special Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Highlights of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Fiscal Year Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Business Loans and Investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Component Funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS Since inception in 1986: • Business loan programs with over $6 million in assets have made 338 loans for a total of more than $13.4 million • Creation or retention of almost 1,948 jobs • Lending has leveraged more than $53.7 million in additional funds • The Entrepreneur Development Program has made 132 loans totaling $1,455,969; 95% went to individual businesses • Made 2,099 grants totaling over $13.6 million • Adult and youth leadership programs have provided training for nearly 2,238 leaders • Specially-designed nonprofit management and diversity training programs have addressed the special needs of 343 organizations and 64 communities • Established more than 160 component funds and subfunds, with assets of $6.6 million • Total assets grew to $35.2 million

2004

Building A Foundation For Place

Board

Staff

OFFICERS Kip Fontaine Anne Sand Carolyn Eeg Diane Blair

Chairman Vice-Chair Secretary Treasurer

DIRECTORS Terri Anderson Rothschadl Linda Bentson Mark Hewitt Dean Johnson

Roger Malm Victor Olson Gary Purath Kim Wilson

Peggy Crandall Connie Curb DeeGee Frenzel Ritchie Houge Sandy Kamnikar LaRae Maddox Diane Morey John Ostrem Lisa Peterson Marty Sieve Jim Steenerson Caryl Turnow Lin Wahlberg Tim Wang Rebecca Weir Dave West

Grants Services Associate Receptionist Administrative Assistant Director of Development Accounting Associate Office/Systems Manager Business Development Specialist President Communications Specialist Director of Programs Grants Specialist Business Development Specialist Early Childhood Specialist Director of Finance Training Specialist Business Finance Specialist

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2004

Building A Foundation For Place

The Four Asset Areas of Quality of Place Form the Cornerstones We are a community; a collection of parts that makes up the whole. And when one of those parts thrives, we are all benefited. By building community assets with forward-looking leadership, a clear vision, moving purposefully with positive action for community success, we are preparing for a bright future.

We can find ways to employ workers in meaningful work, bring food, shelter, or clothing to those who have none, lend a helping hand to disaster victims, provide opportunities for young people to grow, learn and advance. We make the needs of our neighbor become the responsibilities of our own using permanent resources, guided by stewards who care.

Embracing the challenges of a community in need...this is the mark of a healthy, vibrant, growing community.

Quality of Place is the sum of attributes that affect our community’s quality of life in the areas of infrastructure, natural resources, social relationships and regional economy.

Northwest Minnesota Foundation has always been concerned about the success of the community as a whole, and through contributions from The McKnight Foundation and other fun-

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ders, along with thousands of donors, we have been able to make significant contributions to programs and projects that support people and organizations in the northwest region. Since 1986, we have awarded $13.6 million to a variety of organizations that help make our twelve counties the best places they can be to live and work.

Social Assets Whether it’s the chair of a committee, the leader of a nonprofit providing essential services, a member of a senior center or an arts or historical organization director — whatever role we may have, being an active part of a community is an essential element in our lives.

Ensuring opportunities for personal growth, artistic expression and preserving cultural heritage...these are the signs of a place with the qualities that attract and retain residents and employers.

Since its inception, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation has been concerned about the welfare of the community as a whole. We have been able to make significant contributions to programs and projects that facilitate

grass roots coalitions to improve the lives of children, support service to children and the elderly, provide training to support nonprofit organizations and individuals and services to community, cultural and community service funds.

Following is a list showing ways that social assets of people and organizations have been enhanced: Adult Leadership, Cultural Competency and Diversity Workshops Youth Leadership (STAR Teams and CIRCLE) Nonprofit Excellence Program Grants for joint ventures in delivery of services to children and the elderly.

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Building A Foundation For Place

Leadership and Nonprofit Training Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect (STAR) trainers have been actively helping sixth and seventh grade youth in the region to understand and respect each other, giving them the tools and skills needed to manage conflict in a non-violent way.

The mission of the STAR Teams program is to implement and sustain strategies in schools and groups that promote selfawareness, self-responsibility and inspire positive choices in an individual’s life and in his/her relationships, thereby creating safer communities.

The program is improving how it accomplishes this mission with the addition of Circles – a way of communicating in a group that has specific protocols to assure listening, attending to the person and making sure that each person has a chance to voice their opinions and ideas.

Recent participants in a training session for the circle process were enthused about the new practice, which has long been used by American Indians and for restorative justice programs.

“My experience at the circle training was spiritual to say the least. It amazed me how a group of people…could

come together and experience kindness, empathy, generosity, friendship and hope together,” said Jennifer Martineau, a STAR youth advisor and psychology student at Bemidji State University.

“Given all of the issues that plague people on a day-to-day basis, it seemed that the circles took all of that away for a moment.”

enhance communication in my classroom, whether it is between my students and me, or between the groups as a whole.”

Circles are incorporated into the STAR curriculum, helping to make group communication a safe and welcome activity within an age group that is not always comfortable in that environment. These skills will be carried over into all aspects of their home, school and community relationships.

Mitch Hayle, Schoolcraft Advisor; Jennifer Martineau, Youth Advocate; Joann Papke, Fosston Advisor

Scott W. Alton, also a STAR youth advocate and a BSU elementary education student, agreed.

“I find that Circles are a great tool which I can use for communication.

There is a certain intimacy connected with Circles which allows people to be open and honest. I hope to use this to

Notes from an exercise in identifying shared experiences

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Building A Foundation For Place

Structural Assets We are growing. Each year, more and more people decide to establish their homes here, raise their families, and build their businesses. Yet, as our boundaries expand, so does the need to retain our identity and preserve our sense of community. Whether that means helping an essential rural business thrive, or supporting construction of a housing develop-

committed sense of community.

Here are some of the ways that the structural assets of people and organizations have been enhanced: Training to support nonprofit organizations and individuals working in related fields Services to endowment and project funds for education and scholarships; health care funds Loans to maintain essential community services ment, maintaining and improving the community is part of what makes us who we are.

Building community spirit and a sense of unity...this is the mark of a community that is successful and thriving. As a community foundation, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation has always been concerned about the welfare of the community as a whole. Generation after generation has seen the importance of developing a strong and

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Grants for community and economic development planning

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Building A Foundation For Place

PHILANTHROPIC SERVICES In 1997, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation charted its course as a community foundation and provider of philanthropic services, administering 28 component funds with assets of $1.3 million. When a community foundation makes responsible and sound financial decisions, each of its component funds realizes the benefits.

donated to a component fund endowment with a 10% gift, totaling more than $400,000. The matching gifts helped component fund endowments to increase and perpetuate earning capacity. This is one way NMF’s philanthropic services work to improve the structural assets of the region.

NMF also works with organizations to make them stronger. We are able to provide professional services that often cannot be adequately staffed or afforded.

In supporting health care funds, the associated hospice services, long term care facilities, assisted living residences and critical care hospitals have added resources for some of the extras that aren’t always available through rural health care facilities.

As of June 30, 2004, NMF had 156 component funds and sub-funds with assets totaling $6.7 million, most of which are endowment funds.

Ever since those first days, NMF has been a charitable partner in the growth and management of all its funds. NMF has matched every dollar

year. As a result, the school district gained philanthropic expertise and was relieved of financial responsibilities, bookkeeping and accounting, receipting of gifts, and disbursement of scholarship awards, saving staff time and dollars.

With the close of fiscal year 2004 and distribution of thousands of dollars in matching funds, the original NMF match program has been amended to adapt to changing needs within the region and priorities of the foundation.

The future focus for philanthropic services, while supporting the mission of current funds, will be the establishment of Community Funds, further benefiting the structural assets that build community spirit and a sense of unity.

By providing support for education and scholarship funds, NMF increases the quality of our schools and outcomes for the students who are educated here, then go on to attend the higher education institutions in the region.

For example, NMF established the Bemidji Lumberjack Foundation Fund and its numerous scholarship funds this

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Building A Foundation For Place

Natural Assets Nature. Through an intricate and delicate balance, our environment keeps us alive. It provides the air that we breathe, the food that we eat, the water that we drink. Its beauty inspires and renews us. Our natural resources

Training to support nonprofit organizations and individuals working in associated fields Environment and recreation endowment and project funds Grants for promotion and preservation of natural resources and for managing community growth

Our greatest resource may be these diverse, complex and beautiful natural surroundings. Preserving and protecting them may be our greatest legacy.

When the Northwest Minnesota Foundation first started awarding grants, a program for protecting the environment was not included. Today, we know that efforts to preserve our natural resources are a priority.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is working to protect the natural assets of the region by: are so much a part of what we are that we tend to take them for granted, to believe that they will always be there to nurture and sustain us. We know now that the environment needs our constant care and attention.

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2004

Building A Foundation For Place

NATURAL RESOURCE PROGRAM GRANTS The Northwest Minnesota Foundation adopted new initiatives in Fiscal Year 2004 to help develop the region’s natural assets through its Natural Resource Program grants.

One of the priorities of the program is promoting the sustainable use and preservation of the natural resource base. NMF has provided support for programs designed to build the capacity of leaders to develop and implement lake or river management plans.

Natural Assets of the Region.” Five lake and river associations from Hubbard County (and thirteen from Wadena County) participated.

Since then, NMF awarded a grant for $5,000 to the Hubbard County Coalition of Lakes Association (COLA) for the HLRP training. In addition, the Hewitt Family Charitable Fund, a com-

ponent fund of NMF, granted $1,000 to assist in the training and visioning program. This combined support will allow for leveraging of additional funds from various sources.

Response to this new endeavor is very positive and it will be a focus for continuing growth and strength in the coming years.

NMF began the process to develop a new Healthy Lakes and Rivers Partnership (HLRP) program for Hubbard and Beltrami Counties that will teach lake association representatives how to develop a common vision, set measurable goals, track their progress and outcomes, including training for effective leadership skill building.

All of this came about in the past year as NMF partnered with the Initiative Foundation in Little Falls to offer a new round of HLRP training in Hubbard and Wadena counties. NMF supported this effort, as the HLRP program effectively addresses NMF’s goal “To Protect the

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2004

Building A Foundation For Place

Economic Assets Agriculture, forestry, tourism‌these have been the bedrock of northwest Minnesota’s economy for decades.

Now, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation has developed strategies for a world where time and distance no longer pose significant barriers to commerce. Developing attractive places in which to live and work will draw knowledgeable and talented people to the region.

Fostering new and existing knowledge clusters within groups of high-skill industries Training to support businesses and entrepreneurs Endowment, project and community loan funds Grants for community and economic development planning

Economic development covers a business environment that in turn creates high-wage, high-value jobs that maintain a high standard of living and quality of life. Economic asset development includes business retention and expansion, finance and strategic planning, development and redevelopment, marketing and attraction, and entrepreneur technical assistance and education.

The economic assets of people and organizations have been enhanced by:

broad range of activities that help communities grow and prosper. The Foundation’s business development staff works to ensure a competitive

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Business loans to create quality jobs, provide access to new markets and promote entrepreneurship

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Building A Foundation For Place

ENTREPRENEUR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM In October 2003, Holly Howes, assisted by her mother Ilyne Struthers, upheld a long tradition of family owned business by opening the Tea & Gift Shoppe in downtown Bemidji. Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s Entrepreneur Development Program made a start-up loan for working capital and equipment. The Small Business Administration provided the funds for the program.

The business offers 37 varieties of loose teas that originate from around the globe. The tea is inexpensive, tastes good and has exotic names like Welsh Morning, or Moon Over Madagascar.

Trying the tea named Gunpowder Temple of Heaven might be an adventure.

In addition to regular tea, other beverages for sale include herbal teas (tisanes), chai, tea smoothies and Italian sodas. A customer can also pick up a delicious scone, muffin, cookie, or slice of cheesecake. Tea supplies such as teapots, candles, linens, gift baskets, cards, serving equipment and other items are attractively displayed throughout the store.

Tea and Gift Shoppe owner, Holly Howes (right) with customer Pat Grimes, who is purchasing a tea mug for a gift.

Holly holds informational tea workshops to demonstrate the best way to brew tea, discuss the many varieties of tea on the market and how to conduct an

afternoon tea. Since opening, Holly says,“We haven’t had a zero dollar day yet.”

Holly has grown up in family-owned businesses and as a result, has been involved in all aspects from office cleaner to manager. A natural progression for Holly was to follow the family tradition and become a business owner too.

Holly and her mother serve up nuggets of advice about business ownership with their tea: "You can’t be all things to all people.You’ll spread yourself too thin."... "Work hard, sacrifice and have a passion for what you are doing."...

"Have a vision for your business."...

"Common sense is important."

Gunpowder Temple of Heaven anyone? Get yours at The Tea & Gift Shoppe located in Bemidji at 514 Beltrami Avenue, phone 218-444-9400 and, on the web at www.teangiftshoppe.com.

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Building A Foundation For Place

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUNDING PARTNER – BUUCK FAMILY FOUNDATION The Early Childhood Initiative received a jumpstart in the past year, due in part to the interest of a family with a vacation home in Hubbard County that is deeply involved in philanthropy. Bob and Gail Buucks’ attention to the statewide early childhood effort and their desire to help the Park Rapids community provided a real boost to the demonstration communities in the NMF region. Once involved, the Buucks became more familiar and impressed by the effort.

Park Rapids’ Early Childhood Manager Sheri Wagner said,“The Buuck’s early and ongoing financial support enabled us to write grants and immediately start projects that support and strengthen children from birth to age five, their families and support networks.”

The first Buuck Family Foundation grant funds were awarded to NMF’s Park Rapids coalition, and then additional funds were directed to the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations (MIFs).

The partner communities within each MIF region, which were selected in groups of twelve over the past two years, have formed early childhood coalitions, which are now in varying stages of the program. They received the funds for projects tailored specifically to help every child be ready and able to learn and thrive.

“We are hopeful that other funding partners and donors will take steps to join the Early Childhood Initiative campaign for our youngest children,” said Bob Buuck.“All of Minnesota’s kids need the opportunity to thrive and receive the stimulation and encouragement necessary for healthy development. It can happen with the support of businesses, law enforcement, parents, churches and schools all moving in the same positive direction.”

The Buuck Family Foundation was established in 1994 to serve as a primary gifting vehicle for the Robert and Gail Buuck family in their charitable activities. Northwest Minnesota Foundation sincerely thanks the Buucks for their continued support of this important program.

MEDIA PARTNERS – DEVELOPING COMMUNITY ASSETS CAMPAIGN Last year the foundation introduced new programs and initiatives around the theme Developing Community Assets. To help build awareness of changes taking place, media outlets were invited to become partners in delivering the foundation’s messages to the public. An outstanding response was received. These partners were recognized at the Annual Celebration Dinner by presenting them certificates of appreciation for their efforts. The foundation gratefully acknowledges the participation of the following: Northwoods Press, Nevis East Grand Forks Exponent The Thirteen Towns, Fosston Park Rapids Enterprise Lakeland News, Bemidji Paul Bunyan Broadcasting, Bemidji WDAZ-TV Grand Forks, North Dakota KCAJ / KJ 102 Radio, Roseau KKWQ- KQ 92 Radio, Warroad KKCQ Radio, Fosston KRJB Radio, Ada Richards Publishing, Gonvick Times Publishing Co., Twin Valley Special thanks to Anchor Marketing for their great work in creating and implementing the Developing Community Assets campaign.

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Building A Foundation For Place

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR In Fiscal Year 2004 the Foundation began implementing its new strategic plan based on the “Quality of Place” concept, which has been well received and accepted as an important holistic and credible way of approaching rural development.

Mayor Laurie Hill of Akeley talked about how the NMF’s Quality of Place ideas fit into her community’s long-range plans.

New emphasis was placed on growth management and natural resources presentation and the region responded with several great projects, including: •

•

Bemidji Leads!, a collaborative effort to define and implement what the community wants Bemidji to be in the future. The entire community was engaged in the process.

City of Bemidji, Northern and Bemidji Townships worked together on a comprehensive growth management agreement.

The Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative has been acknowledged statewide as an innovative, constructive program, particularly in NMF’s six demonstration

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communities: Bagley, Crookston, Marshall County, Park Rapids, Thief River Falls and Warroad.

The foundation continued to demonstrate a new regional approach to economic development in Greater Minnesota. A statewide effort has brought together a diverse group of business representatives, philanthropic interests, and policy makers, who share the belief that economic development can be most effective at the grassroots level, rather than from a top-down approach.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND FOUNDATION EVENTS The Northwest Minnesota Foundation Board of Directors continued in its work to get to know the people and needs of the region. They visited Park Rapids and hosted a community breakfast, where invited guests from the area had the opportunity to hear from the foundation and speak about critical issues facing their communities.

Three board members were added this year: Mark Hewitt, Park Rapids; Roger Malm, Hallock; and, Kim Wilson, Fosston.

They bring rich experiences and extensive knowledge of the issues and opportunities that are found in the region.

The Ruth Edevold Excellence Awards were presented to Jeannine Windels for Individual Excellence; to Marge Donnell for Individual Excellence in an Organization; and, to the Occupational Development Center, Inc. Thief River Falls for Organizational Excellence.

The Circle of Vision was joined this year

by Gaylord Gunderson Estate for his gift to the Warroad Community Fund and Warroad Education Fund.

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Building A Foundation For Place

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR continued

TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROGRAM The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is delivering a comprehensive, integrated training program to build the capacity of the region’s nonprofit organizations.

The Nonprofit Excellence Program uses all of NMF’s training resources to more effectively help managers, directors and board members realize genuine progress toward achieving objective standards of professional and organizational excellence. This initiative brings affordable nonprofit and leadership training to an under-served part of the state. NMF has provided high quality leadership and diversity training to over 2,000 adults and youth since 1988.

Series participants who also take the foundation’s Leadership Development workshop and a diversity workshop can apply for scholarship funds for further training.

Dr. Okokon Udo, founder and president of Distinctive Leader Options, Inc., led the organizational assessments.

The first year of the Nonprofit Individual Excellence program concluded with 44 participants signing up for the series.

The Organizational Effectiveness Program was implemented in Fall, 2003.

The foundation provided six assessments for six organizations in its 12county region. These organizations access grants to address the recommendations made by the audit team.

Leadership training participants with staff from Personnel Decisions International.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Essential services became the focus for lending in fiscal year 2004.

NMF contracted with the University of St. Thomas, Center for Nonprofit Management, to conduct 13 nonprofit management workshops over a twoyear period; series participants will receive a certificate from St. Thomas after completing ten workshops.

The Hallock area benefited by a partnership, which started a restaurant with the help of a NMF business loan. The community was given an opportunity to participate in a contest to come up with a name for the new establishment.

“Caribou Grill” was the winning entry.

Eric Thorsgaard, a Bemidji area veterinarian and surgeon, received a loan for new product development. He has invented tools, parts and procedures for orthopedic surgery. The prototype development was made possible with the foundation’s help and also included funding for marketing the new methods to schools that teach surgery on ligaments and joints of canines.

The Valley Growers Grain Elevator Company in Oslo was purchased by the Alvarado Elevator Company with the assistance of a NMF business loan.

With more farmers realizing additional value on their grain and soaring demand for high quality malt barley, the elevator in Olso added capacity for increased processing of as many as 3.35 million bushels of barley, 3.3 million bushels of wheat and 1.7 million bushels of soybeans.

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2004

Building A Foundation For Place

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR continued

ENTREPRENEUR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Eleven loans for $193,303 went to seven new businesses providing 11 new jobs.

Four loans were for expansion of existing businesses.

Seven of the 11 loans went to woman-owned and/or minority business owners.

All went to service and retail businesses in a variety of areas.

Seven workshops were held during the year in Bemidji and Thief River Falls.

Forty people attended with topics ranging from understanding cash flow to closing the sale and strategic planning. A new collaboration among business development organizations was formed, which conducted outreach to Bagley, Mahnomen and Park Rapids.

The organizations involved were: Headwaters Regional Development Commission, Native American Business Development Center (NABDC), Northwest Minnesota Foundation Entrepreneur Development Program, The People Connection and SBDC. Representatives were available to answer questions on programs and services and business development in general.

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A complimentary one-hour class was also available, called “Entrepreneur 101”.

Two organizations (NMF and SBDC) also conducted outreach in Warroad for the second year.

GRANT PROGRAMS The Headwaters Regional Development Commission received grants for key projects impacting the region: $25,000 was awarded to develop and support a long range planning and investigation process for collaborations in managing growth and providing public services in Bemidji and surrounding townships. $15,000 was awarded to develop the Knowledge Cluster project, a comprehensive study by partners to determine applied engineering training, education and employment needs in northwest Minnesota.

Grants were successfully completed in FY 04 that have had a considerable impact in segments of the region.

The traceability of agricultural products was studied by Northern Great Plains, Inc. The purpose of the project was to provide detailed lot-by-lot investigation in response to increasing demand throughout the world to know where

Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s Knowledge Cluster project captured the imagination of major industries, educational institutions, economic developers, and foundations. In partnership with these other regional institutions, NMF undertook the second phase of the project. This stage involved completion of detailed action plans to create a Center for Applied Engineering, establish a Technical Engineering Degree program at Bemidji State University, capitalize a regional equity investment fund, and conduct a marketing campaign to brand the region as a hub of engineering innovation.

the ingredients used in food products originate. As a result, the process verified system that was developed is the first crop-based production/processing system to be implemented. Northwest Minnesota farmers now have the advantage of differentiating their production from other producers in the world.

Tri-County Community Corrections completed its grant for the Capacity

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Building A Foundation For Place

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR continued

Building Project. Among the accomplishments of the collaborative headed by this entity is preventing the emergence of, or reducing the impact of problems experienced by children and families through ongoing administrative and programmatic coordination of services and resource sharing. The result is a viable, important asset in providing comprehensive youth and family services. They developed a network of agencies and health collaboratives, then published a web site designed for posting activities and public information, which has improved communications, coordination and opportunities for resource development.

EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE With a goal of having all young children ready to thrive and succeed when they begin kindergarten, the Early Childhood Initiative in the NMF region saw all of its demonstration

communities prioritizing needs, based on information from community interviews and visioning exercises. In addition to gathering information and planning action projects, all communities began raising funds, building the working structure of their coalitions, and fostering community engagement.

Round One communities: Warroad has successfully completed five community events, both for family enjoyment and learning opportunities.

Fundraising efforts have been successful. Action plans include a scholarship fund for preschool, transportation to preschool, and Storytime on Wheels to bring enrichment and mentoring to family childcare providers.

Park Rapids has implemented four action projects: funding for a pediatric dental suite for low income young children; constructing a Safety Town display; bringing family child care providers together through Fabulous Fridays; and, planning a Video Baby Book home visiting project for new parents.

Round Two communities: Bagley’s coalition has been meeting as a whole coalition and as task teams.

Action plans are focusing on connecting with new families with young children and welcoming new babies,

bringing dental care to all young children, forming a “Warmline” phone calling center as a support and information resource, and connecting all early care and education professionals into an organization to enhance the quality of all programs.

Thief River Falls has focused on two main projects as priorities: establishment of a family child care providers’ association and the hiring of a family advocate for teaching, supporting and coordination of services to the neediest families.

Round Three communities: Crookston and Marshall County have just begun building a base of support to gather information and engage their communities. Their unique characteristics dictate the process as it is shaped by the energy of the coalition.

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FISCAL YEAR 2004 IN REVIEW

$5,628,505 $412,409 $715,529 $3,760,621 $767,211

$24,089,628

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Office Building and

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Building A Foundation For Place

BUSINESS LOANS AND INVESTMENTS LOANS AND INVESTMENTS TOTALING $812,500 WERE MADE TO AREA BUSINESSES AND ENTREPRENEURS GENERAL BUSINESS LOANS

ENTREPRENEUR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Financing is available for business startups and expansions that create new jobs leading to long-term community impact, diversification of the economy and that leverage other sources of funds to increase total capital investment in the region.

Loans up to $35,000 are available to help develop small businesses and selfemployment opportunities. Staff works directly with entrepreneurs to develop business plans and provide ongoing assistance and training.

Loans totaling $606,000 were made to:

Loans totaling $206,500 were made to:

Itasca Bemidji, Inc., Bemidji

Animal Cracker Day Care, Redby

Hallock Restaurant Properties, Hallock

Tea & Gift Shoppe, Bemidji

Entech Industries, Inc., East Grand Forks

Special Occasions by Karen, Roseau

DRMK Properties, LLC, Bagley Eric Thorsgard, Bemidji Farmers Elevator Co., Alvarado

The Edge Karaoke, Badger The Main Mug and Bakery, Baudette Shots and Thoughts, Crookston

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides assistance in the loan application process and after the loan is made. Staff provides technical assistance to increase a business owner’s capacity to successfully manage and operate their business and increase its prospects for long-term success.

Assistance is provided by staff or consultants and may include workshops, classroom training and individual counseling.

Forty-seven businesses and individuals received personal technical assistance counseling. $3,575 supported consulting to assist five entrepreneurial businesses.

Hair Envy, Roseau Red Lake Car Wash, Red Lake

Forty people attended the classroom training workshops NMF sponsored

Over Coffee at Christie’s, Warroad Jon’s Bar and Grill, Inc., Halma Denny’s Outdoor Sports, Roseau

Nearly 300 people contacted the NMF business development specialists with inquiries about the Entrepreneur Development Program.

The Business Development Programs of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation receive funding and support from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and United States Department of Agriculture as well as the Small Business Administration.

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GRANTS IN 2004 TOTAL GRANT AMOUNT: $939,056 CARING COMMUNITIES GRANTS are awarded for inter-agency efforts that focus on issues affecting children, families and the elderly. $159,040 was distributed in 12 grants.

Children & Families National Practitioners Network for fathers and families. .........................................................................................................................$ 500 For the Fatherhood Summit.

Northwest Community Action Program ....................................................................................................................................................$ 20,000 For Young Parents Plus program.

The People Connection..............................................................................................................................................................................$ 25,000 For People's Alliance for Living program.

University of Minnesota Foundation ..........................................................................................................................................................$ 5,000 For a contribution to the Chancellor Donald and Mary Beth Sargeant Scholarship Fund.

Early Childhood Initiative Minnesota Licensed Family Child Care.....................................................................................................................................................$ 3,540 For the Red Lake licensed family child care training.

Emergency Assistance

Awarded for flood relief and/or crisis needs of low-income families and individuals.

Bi County CAP, Inc........................................................................................................................................................................................$ Inter-County Community Action Council..................................................................................................................................................$ Mahube Community Council ....................................................................................................................................................................$ Northwest Community Action Program ....................................................................................................................................................$ Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc.............................................................................................................................................................$ Junior Achievement Junior Achievement of Upper Midwest, Inc..............................................................................................................................................$ For the Northwest Area Junior Achievement project.

The Elderly Northwoods Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers For the Senior Outreach and Care Coordination Program.

20,400 12,800 8,000 7,800 11,000 20,000

COMMUNITY PLANNING GRANTS are awarded for the design and implementation of plans that address either affordable housing, community or economic development or effective management of community growth. $366,537 was distributed in 28 grants.

Economic & Community Development Bemidji State University Center for Research & Innovation (2) ..............................................................................................................$ 35,000 For funding for the Small Business Development Center in the northwest region.

Council on Foundations..............................................................................................................................................................................$ 3,570 2004 Membership Dues Headwaters RDC .........................................................................................................................................................................................$ 15,000 For the regional Knowledge Cluster Project MN Council on Foundations.......................................................................................................................................................................$ 2,900 2004 membership dues Northland Foundation.................................................................................................................................................................................$ 167 For the 2004 Minnesota Rural Summit Northwest Technical College-Bemidji........................................................................................................................................................$ 3,000 For the regional Knowledge Cluster Project

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GRANTS continued White Earth Reservation Tribal Council .....................................................................................................................................................$ For the White Earth Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic plan.

Growth Management City of Baudette ..........................................................................................................................................................................................$ For Growth Management in the Baudette area.

Headwaters RDC .........................................................................................................................................................................................$ Development of a collaborative model for growth management and service delivery in the Bemidji area.

Joint Economic Development Commission..............................................................................................................................................$ For the Bemidji Leads! initiative.

Housing City of Kelliher ..............................................................................................................................................................................................$ For the Kelliher Area Assisted Living Market Analysis Northwest Community Action Program ....................................................................................................................................................$ For a Roseau County housing needs analysis.

Northwest Indian OIC..................................................................................................................................................................................$ Northwest Indian OIC affordable housing for Bemidji Northwest Minnesota Foundation..............................................................................................................................................................$ Affordable housing loan fund origination and legal fees.

Housing Partnerships Headwaters RDC .........................................................................................................................................................................................$ For the Northwest Minnesota Housing Coalition.

NW Regional Development Commission ..................................................................................................................................................$ For the Northwest Minnesota Housing Coalition.

Regional Economic Development

10,000 15,000 15,000 25,000 3,400 25,000 25,000 15,000 10,000 10,000

Awarded for pilot projects that test the principles of regional economic development in areas around the state.

Initiative Foundation (2) ..............................................................................................................................................................................$ Northland Foundation (2) ...........................................................................................................................................................................$ Northwest Technical College-Bemidji........................................................................................................................................................$ Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (2) ..........................................................................................................................................$ Southwest Minnesota Foundation (2)........................................................................................................................................................$ West Central Initiative (2)............................................................................................................................................................................$

32,000 26,000 9,500 26,000 32,000 28,000

NATURAL RESOURCES GRANTS are awarded for research leading to new strategies and/or technologies that add value to local resources and that promote the sustainable use and preservation of the natural resource base. $30,000 was distributed in two grants Natural Resources - New Technologies Northwest Regional Development Commission.......................................................................................................................................$ 25,000 For a biodiesel feasibility study.

Natural Resources - Promotion & Preservation Hubbard County COLA ..............................................................................................................................................................................$ 5,000 For the Healthy Lakes Initiative in Hubbard County.

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GRANTS continued TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS address nonprofit management issues and economic development issues for local governments and schools. $8,319.33 was distributed in 16 grants.

Business Technical Assistance Angelic Revolutions Therapeutic Massage...............................................................................................................................................$ For marketing materials design.

Animal Cracker Day Care (2) ....................................................................................................................................................................$ For the 2004 Early Childhood Mega Conference and sign design for the child care facility.

Back 2 Basics 4 Kids (7) ...............................................................................................................................................................................$ For layout and design of dual use catalog; 2) Upgrade to website; 3) for an online store for new logo; 4) for website design for online catalog; 5) for installation of network to accounting system; 6) for computer software upgrade research and consultation; 7) for Project C for Back 2 Basics 4 Kids Lindbery Machining & Welding..................................................................................................................................................................$ For incorporation as DynaMetal Manufacturing, Inc. Mid Central Fabricating..............................................................................................................................................................................$ For pricing for distributors.

Mid Central Fabricating..............................................................................................................................................................................$ For market research and analysis.

Minnesota Women's Business Center ........................................................................................................................................................$ For a home-based business conference.

StringTime Music Co. (2) ..............................................................................................................................................................................$ For guitar neck programming; for accounting system setup and reporting.

135 290 3,010

364 350 2,000 500 1,670

TRAINING AND EDUCATION GRANTS support youth leadership training and community collaboration efforts. $3,090.00 was distributed in 12 grants.

Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect (STAR) Teams

$150-$200 grants were given to the following schools for STAR Teams follow up projects:

Bagley School Dist #162 (2); Franklin Middle School; Mahnomen Public School; Nevis School Dist #308; Sacred Heart Elementary School; Schoolcraft Learning Community; St Michael's School; Waubun School District (2) ................$ Training - Community Groups Sharing & Shaping Caring Community .....................................................................................................................................................$ For the annual Tehakwitha conference.

Youth Issues Network ...................................................................................................................................................................................$ For the workshop Teaching Culture through Laughter with Tou Ger Xiong

1,840 50 500

COMPONENT FUND GRANTS are recommended by local advisory committees. The Component Funds have the capacity to make disbursements from endowment interest earnings or from specific project funds, distributed upon approval by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation Board of Directors. $372,070 was distributed in 125 grants Anonymous ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................$ To the Beltrami County 4-H Club for replacement of archery equipment.

Bagley Education Endowment Fund..................................................................................................................................................................$ Bagley General Scholarship Fund - Six scholarships Bagley Kids II Auditorium Fund .........................................................................................................................................................................$ To Bagley School Dist #162 for auditorium carpet materials and installation.

500 3,600 1,935

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2004

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GRANTS continued Beltrami County Humane Society Endowment Fund Ralph and Ruth Shoemate Fund ...............................................................................................................................................................$ 2,000 To the Beltrami Humane Society for cat kennels.

Bemidji Area Public Library Foundation Endowment Fund Bemidji Area Public Library Mural Fund.....................................................................................................................................................$ 2,500 To Mary Therese Peterson for a mural in main entry of the Bemidji Area Public Library.

Big Bog State Recreation Area Endowment and Project Fund.......................................................................................................................$ 5,000 To the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the south unit interpretation.

Clearwater Area Health Care Fund CHS Greensview Care Center Fund (3) ....................................................................................................................................................$ 3,925 For 1) Greensview Health Care Center Hospice Room additions; 2) remodeling Hospice Room II;and, (3) activity supplies.

CHS Hospice Family Room Project Fund(2) ..............................................................................................................................................$ 22,500 1) To Clearwater County Hospital for the Family Room Architect planning project; 2) Hospice Family Room at Clearwater County Memorial Hospital.

CHS Hospice Fund (5) ................................................................................................................................................................................. $ 15,819 To Clearwater County Hospice, Inc. for 1) Hospice Extended Care; 2) for hospice care services; 3) for the Hospice Medication Gift Program; to Greensview Health Care Center for 4) Hospice room furniture; and, 5) remodeling Hospice Room II. Clearwater County Emergency Services Endowment and Project .....................................................................................................$ 150 To Clearwater Ambulance Service for a fundraising breakfast.

Clearbrook-Gonvick Education Endowment and Project Fund Playground Fund..........................................................................................................................................................................................$ 17,387 To the Clearbrook-Gonvick School for playground equipment.

District #593 (Crookston) Education Foundation Endowment Fund Frances Drivold Special Education Endowment and Project Fund ......................................................................................................$ 3,500 To Crookston School Dist #593 for vocational training stipends, materials and equipment for Special Education Students Fosston Education Foundation Endowment Fund (5) ......................................................................................................................................$ 3,560 For 1) one scholarship; 2) rewards to students for "Turn off TV Week"; 3) for sponsorship of a speaker for "Turn Off TV Week"; 4) to the Headwaters Science Center for the second grade field trip; and, 5) to The People Connection to support the Community of Promise goals.

Dean Clementson Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship...............................................................................................................................$ 500 LuVerne Trogstad Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship.................................................................................................................................$ 5,000 Vikan Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship.....................................................................................................................................................$ 500 Fosston 21st Century Fund ..................................................................................................................................................................................$ 80,900 To the City of Fosston for the Fosston Public Library.

Headwaters Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Fund (2) ...................................................................................................................................$ 200 To Churches United, Inc 1) for general operating expenses; 2) for a donation to Northwoods Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers.

Heartland Homes Endowment and Project Fund For a handicapped accessible van for Heartland Homes, Inc..............................................................................................................$ 12,486 Hewitt Family Charitable Fund ...........................................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 To the Hubbard County COLA for the Healthy Lakes Initiative for Hubbard County.

Julie Holmquist Memorial Scholarship Fund 1 scholarship .............................................................................................................................$ 1,000 Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center Foundation Endowment Fund ............................................................................................................$ 1,636 To Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center for the purchase of a multi-functional electronic flat scale.

Lake of the Woods Area Industrial Development Endowment Fund..............................................................................................................$ 15,000 To BSU’s Center for Research & Innovation for support of the Small Business Development Center.

Laporte Education Endowment and Project Fund (6) .....................................................................................................................................$ 3,000 Five scholarships; and,(6) to the Laporte School District for participation in the 2003 Golf Tournament.

Laporte Benedict VFW Scholarship Fund – 2 scholarships ......................................................................................................................$ 500

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2004

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GRANTS continued Lee Hafdahl Memorial Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship........................................................................................................................$ 100 Tonia Johannsen Memorial Fund (2) .........................................................................................................................................................$ 64 1) To the Laporte School District for entry fee/Pacesetter basketball tournament; 2) for one scholarship.

Leonard J. Kucera Memorial Scholarship Fund – 4 scholarships ...................................................................................................................$ 4,000 Mahnomen Area Community Fund Mahnomen Education Endowment and Project Fund – 5 scholarships ...............................................................................................$ 2,250 Leslie Hanson Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship .......................................................................................................................................$ 500 Milton Hockel Natural Resources Scholarship Fund – 2 scholarships .....................................................................................................$ 1,000 North Border Interfaith Coalition Fund (2) 1) For funding home repairs; and 2) for operating support....................................................................................................................$ 19,466 Northwest Minnesota Women's Fund.................................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 To the Human Achievement & Performance Academy for the workshop “Life Skills & Character Education” for young mothers.

Major Robert Olson Fund – 1 scholarship........................................................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 Nick Peterson Memorial Fund – 1 scholarship................................................................................................................................................................................$ 100 Ole and Ruth Tweet Family Fund (2) ................................................................................................................................................................................................$ 3,500 1) To the Mayo Foundation for heart research; 2) for a donation to the Ralph Englestad Arena in Thief River Falls.

Park Rapids Early Childhood Initiative Fund (3) .............................................................................................................................................................................$ 20,100 1) To District 309 Community Education for the Fabulous Fridays program and 2) to implement Safety Town; and, 3) to St. Joseph's Area Health Services for support of a Community Dental Clinic.

Red Lake Falls Education Fund Kris Fontaine Memorial Scholarship Fund – 2 scholarships ...................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 Lester Norris Dale, MD Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship ......................................................................................................................................................$ 400 Roseau Area Community Fund Joseph Schneider Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship.............................................................................................................................................................$ 125 Roseau Area Flood Recovery Fund (7) ..................................................................................................................................................................................$ 91,790 To the American Legion Club 24 for flood recovery needs; 2) for a Donation to the City of Roseau; 3) to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation for consultant services; 4) to the Northwest Minnesota Multi-County HRA Housing; 5) to Oak Crest Senior Housing Assisted Housing Project; 6) to Roseau Post 8663 VFW for flood recovery needs; and, 7) to the Veterans Memorial Park Association for replacement of the floodlight system at the Veterans Memorial.

Ruth Edevold Awards for Excellence (5) ................................................................................................................................................................................$ 3,000 For excellence grants selected by recipients to 1) Center for Human Environment; 2) to the City of Crookston for a donation to the Oz Cart Festival; 3) to the Mahnomen County Historical Society; 4) to the Occupational Development Center, Thief River Falls for a donation for the ODC Sensory Garden; and, 5) for a donation to Parents of Murdered Children.

Ruth Edevold Endowment for Excellence ..............................................................................................................................................................................$ 1,500 To the Bagley Elementary School for the purchase of instruments.

Troy Nelson Memorial "Character" Scholarship Fund – 2 scholarships........................................................................................................................$ 2,500 Warren-Alvarado-Oslo Education Foundation Myron and Margaret Carlson Education Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship .....................................................................................................................$ 400 Lyle H Engelstad Scholarship Fund – 5 scholarships ..............................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 Warren Senior Center Endowment Fund.................................................................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 To the Warren Senior Citizens Club, Inc. for kitchen equipment for new site.

Warroad Community Fund Edward and Agnes Brandli Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship..............................................................................................................................................$ 250 Justin Knebel Memorial Fund – 1 scholarship ........................................................................................................................................................................$ 500 Katie Jo Olafson Memorial Scholarship Fund – 21 scholarships ..........................................................................................................................................$ 5,250 Warroad Area Flood Recovery Fund ......................................................................................................................................................................................$ 500 For a donation to the Warroad Clothing Exchange.

Warroad Education Endowment and Project Fund – 2 scholarships..................................................................................................................................$ 1,000 Warroad Farmer's Union Oil Company Scholarship Fund – 1 scholarship ..........................................................................................................................$ 600

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2004

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CONTRIBUTORS GIFTS RECEIVED FROM JULY 1, 2003 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2004

Circle of Vision The Circle of Vision was established to recognize those people who see the possibilities of tomorrow by acting today; who believe in their communities and share of themselves and their resources.

In 2004, Gaylord Gunderson, Warroad, joined the Circle of Vision as individuals or a family who have made a gift, planned gift, or will bequest of $100,000 or more in direct support of NMF or any of its component funds.

Past Circle of Vision Honorees: H.C.“Bill� Baer, Jr. and Jessie Baer Frances Drivold Lyle H. Engelstad Robert F. and Marian Foley Mark and Peg Hewitt Leonard J. and Rosemond Kucera Arnold F. Lund, Sr. Eldor and Stella Omdahl Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians Elsie Semrau Ole and Ruth Tweet

2004 Contributors A.F. Payne Photographic Illustrators, Inc. Leif Aakre AgCountry Farm Credit Services of Fargo AgCountry Farm Credit Services of Morris Becky Agnew Agrimax LLC Ruth V. Allman Alvarado Bean Co American Federal Bank of Fargo American Federal Bank of Fosston American National Bank American State Bank of Grygla AmeriPride Linen Amundson Equipment Terri Anderson Rothschadl Gary Anderson Jeanette Anderson Kandy Anderson Mavis Anderson

Richard and Sue Anderson Steve Anderson Tricia Andrews JoAnn Andringa Angus Acres, Inc. Margella Annett Fund Anonymous Ashby Farmers Co-op Elevator Co. Athenian Club Alane Aube Charles Austad Backman Seeds Inc. Amber Baker Balboa Anesthesia Leonard and Lois Ball Raymond W. Ball Susan Baumann Mike and Cindy Beaudry Betty Beaulieu Carole and Duane Beckstrand Kathy Beelner Gail Behm Gretchen Beito Beltrami Farmers Elevatand Bemidji Medical Equipment Bemidji Youth Basketball Association Jim and Nancy Bensen Linda Bentson Nick Berg Jacqueline A. Bergeron Karol and Sandra Berglind Dan and Amy Beske Glen Bessler

Big Valley 4-H Cluster Fair, Inc. Cindy Bigger Ardys Bjerke Bruce and Debra Bjerke Gary and Landetta Bjerke Diane Blair Diane and Rick Blair Debra Blakely Blandin Foundation Stephen and Kristin Booth Victoria Kettlewell and Gregory Booth Bothum Seeds, Inc. Roxann Bowman Boys Supply Jeanine R Brand Bray-Gentilly Mutual Insurance Co. Bremer Bank of Grand Forks Bremer Bank of Warren Otto Bremer Foundation Bremer Trust, National Association John and Margaret Bressler Dewain and Arlene Brinkman Bromelkamp Co. Gwen Bruns Jimmy Burgoon Fr. Tim Bushy Mary Butzier Buuck Family Foundation C & M Ford Sales, Inc. Nancy Carroll Lorraine Cecil Centennial National Bank Centrol, Inc.

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2004

Building A Foundation For Place

CONTRIBUTORS continued Clark Chambers Rhonda and Mitchell Charles Clearbrook Dental Clinic, LTD. Clearbrook Honey Farms Clearbrook-Gonvick Playground Committee Clearbrook-Gonvick School Clearwater Health Services Clearwater Lutheran Church Women Clearwater-Polk Electric Trust Coldwell Banker Linda Colman Community Bank of Oslo Community Bank of Warren The Community Development Trust, LLP Community First National Bank of Fargo Community First National Bank of Morris Companeros Compass Capital Management Inc. Jessica Conrad Joseph and Karen Corcoran Courage Center Kathy Craddock Peggy Crandall Crookston Implement Company Crookston National Bank Crookston Valley Co-op Crop Insurance Assoc., Inc. Kathy Cross Cry of the Loon Lodge Connie Curb D and D Commodities Preston Dagen Beverly M. Dahlin Edna Dahlke Winnie DauSchmidt Donald Knudson and Marlon Davidson Susan Davidson JoAnn DeRosier Dog House Bar and Grill Dondelinger Chevrolet Buick Carolyn Dondelinger Herbert Dandan Douglas County

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Drees, Riskey and Vallager, LTD-Crookston The Drive-In Lloyd and Lucille Dufault Roy and Joan Dufault Wendy Lerner Eaton Kathryn Edmonds Byron and Carolyn Eeg Audrey Eickhof Elbow Lake Co-op Grain Allen Ellenson Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. Craig and Cindy Engelstad Richard and Bonnie Engen David and Charlene Erickson Eric and Faye Erickson Evangelical Covenant Church Evergreen Implement Co. Evergreen Implement Company Faith Lutheran Church Women Lois and Gale Falk Eleanor and John Fallgren Thomas and Mary Kay Fallgren Pamela Fankhanel Farm and Home Oil Co. Inc. Farm Credit Services of Grand Forks Farm Power Inc. of Minnesota Farmers Elevator Co. of Alvarado Farmers Elevator of Fergus Falls Farmers State Bank of Hoffman Farmers Union Oil Co. of Warroad Farmers Union Oil Co. of Grygla Farmers Union Oil Co. of Lake Bronson Farmers Union Oil Co. of Oslo Elizabeth Fedor Fergus Falls Vision Care, P.A. Fergus International, Inc. Elsie Ferrie Fertile Building Center, LTD. First Federal Bank First National Bank of Hawley First National Bank of Walker First State Bank of Clearbrook First State Bank of Fertile

Glenn Fishbeck Alan B. Foley Kip and Sheila Fontaine Sandra and Keith Fontaine Lynn Fossen Fosston Community Library and Arts Assoc.

Fosston Implement Co. Fosston School Dist #601 Janet Fredell Kathleen A. Fredell DeeGee Frenzel Opal Friborg Judith Fritz Fulton and Nancy Gallagher Garden Valley Telephone Co. Connie Gasper Gaylord Gunderson Estate Keith and Kelly Gerber J.M. Gerold Constance Ghostley Gary and Bonnie Gilbertson Linda A. Gilgosch Lowell and Ardis Gillett Brent and Gayle Gish Darlene Gladen Gonvick Annual Fund Drive Good Shepherd Lutheran WELCA Betty and Tim Goose Grant - Traverse County David and Lynne Grant Greater Twin Cities United Way Bobbie Greiner Kathy Grell Garry and Tina Grewe Jean Grimes Harlow Grove Gully CafĂŠ Mark and Sarah Gunning Gustafson and Goudge Inc. Ralph Gustafson Landaine Haack Half Point Studio Bruce and Aase Hamnes

2004

Building A Foundation For Place

CONTRIBUTORS continued Hamrum Custom Saddle Shop Marion Handy Yvonne Hanley, D.D.S. Pat and Laurie Hanlon Jeanne Hanse Sheila Hansen Hanson Oil and Fuel, Inc. Ethel and Harley Hanson Norma Hanson Deanna Hartog Jenny Harvey Curtis Haugen Lowell and Janice Haugen Jim and Ionne Haugstul Headwaters Regional Development Commission Allison Healy Anne Healy Sarah Healy Heartland Christian Academy Heartland Homes, Inc. Florence Hedeen Marvin and Lynette Hedlund Marlene Henney Mark and Peg Hewitt Charles B. Hiller Marlys Hirst Hoffman Co-op Grain Association Hoffman Co-op Oil Association Alice Hogberg Susan Hoosier Stanley Horwich Ritch and Kelly Houge Merril Thiel and Ruth Howe William Howe David Hubbard Marie L. Hughbanks Carol Huttemier Independent School Dist No. 2311 Esther Instebo Integrity Computer Systems, Inc. Interstate, Inc. Iverson Corner Drug Francine Jacobs

Janssen Photography Daniel and Amy Jelich D. Lorrayne Jelle Ruby Jensen Calvin and Cleo Johannsen Martha C Johannsen Michele and Joshua Johannsen Tim Johannsen John’s Backhoe Service Johnson Oil Company Dean and Sharon Johnson Gloria and George Johnson Harvey Johnson Joy E. Johnson Joyce Johnson Marlin and Sandra Johnson Peg Johnson Ryanelle and Barbara Johnson Marie and David Johnstad Kabekona WMI Sandra Kamnikar Karen Kappedal Keith and Charles Kapphahn Karlstad Insurance Agency, Inc. Sandy Kaul Patricia Kelly Vesta Kerns Marie Kistler Kathy Kjolhaug David and Mary Ellen Kjos Stacy Klema Linda Kline Bea Knodel Ivy and Clayton Knoshaug Curtis Knutson Jeffery and Judith Koniges Rebecca Kanddahl Brenda Kreun Edna Kroll Katherine Krueth Jerry Kruger Lake of the Woods Humane Society Lakeport Township

Lambert Insurance Lampert’s Cabinets, Inc. Greg and Janai Lampert Janet Lang Tom Langseth Laporte-Benedict Lions Club Amaretta Larson Francine Laske Larry Laudon Kim Lavine Gerry LaVoi LeAnne’s Shirts Art and Judith Lee Pat and John Leinen Wilbert and Sandra Lemcke Leon Township Leonard Hard Times Bash Collette Leonhardt David and Virginia Leonhardt John and Marie Leseth Neen Lillquist Michael and Belinda Lindell Lindy’s Plumbing and Heating Rodney Lofthus Alice Longtin Arnold F. Lund Sr. Charlene Lundin Arlene Lundmark Mark T. and Christine R. Maassel Family Fund La Rae Maddox Roger and Sandy Malm Eugene and Clara Manecke Judy Marmorine Sather Marshall County Crop Prentice and Lorelei Marshall Susan Marvin Joseph McDonnell The McKnight Foundation Timothy J. McLean John and Lynnda McNelly Joyce McNelly Michael and Carra McNelly Paul McNelly

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CONTRIBUTORS continued Bruce and Elizabeth Meade Gladys M Meade Leonard and Nel Marie Melville Louise Mengelkoch Brenda Menier MeritCare Larry and Judy Merschman Judy Mershman Dave Meshefski James Miller Kristi and Jim Miller Marilyn Miller Phyllis E. Miller Tabetha Miller Tom and Marilyn Miller Susan Mills Minnesota Housing Partnership Minnesota Motor Company Minnesota Red River Valley Development Assoc.

Sherilyn Moe Jane and James Moeller Doris E. Moen Diane Morey Earl and Ruth Mostoller Gary and Peggy Moyer Linda R. Moyer Mary and David Moyer MRS Professional Services Bruce Muckala Rae Murray Robert S. Naylor NCS Repair Nei Bottling Co. Grace Nelson Jeff Nelson Maurice Nelson Warren and Marlene Nelson William and Eloise Nelson New Horizons Ag Service Noah Insurance Jay Nord Norman Co King Agassiz Assoc.

North Central Service

30

Northern Air Northern State Bank of Gonvick Northland Community Bank Northway Insurance Services Inc. Northwest Community Bank of Plummer Northwest Grain Northwoods Bank of Minnesota Northwoods Panelboard Company Sue Nuehart Patrick O’Donnell Estate David J. O’Donnell Jeff O’Donnell Michael O’Donnell Timothy R. O’Donnell Oklee Farmers Co-op Elevator David Olderman Olson Furniture Olson Oil Co. Debbie Olson Victor and Deb Olson Wayne and Diane Omundson Beverlee and Torry Ostenaa John and Eloise Ostrem Otter Tail Power Company-Fergus Falls Ottertail Coaches Our Saviors WELCA Pamida Foundation Paradis Mail Service, Inc. Park Rapids Activities and Education Foundation Parkview Club Paul Bunyan Rural Telephone Cooperative Jane S. Peck Dave and Cindy Peckat Pederson’s Agri-SV, Inc. Pennington County Crop Improvement Mary Pester Jeffrey and Annette Peterson Lisa Peterson Mary Peterson Ronald and Jean Peterson Phil Thompson and Associates Phillips Foundation Bruce Piersol

Pioneer Nuest Farms, Inc. PKM Electric Co-op Carol Porterfield-Milowski Prime Security Bank Progressive Health Care Gary Purath J.E. Quistgard Allan and Joan Randt Rapat Corporation Sandra Rasmus E.H. Rasmussen Red Lake County Cooperative, Inc. Red Lake County State Bank Red Lake Falls Lion’s Club Red Power International, Inc. Red River Lions Club Red River Marketing Co. Redeemer Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Pamela Redland Region 2 Arts Council Dr. Guy and Cathy Reich Tom and Kristi Reise Jeff and Ingrid Remick Resident Council Committee, Clearbrook Gerald and Carla Ricard Richards Publishing Company Ross and Susan Richards Natalie Roholt and Patrick Riley Rivards Quality Seeds Betty and Don Roberts Marianne Roberts Deanna Robertson Gary and Sandy Roerick Rohde Insurance Agency Inc. Debra Roller Callie Ronkowski Jean Ronnei Roseau Co Historical Society Roseau Electric Co-op City of Roseau Gerhard Ross Betty Rossi Michael Booth and Pamela Rotberg

2004

Building A Foundation For Place

CONTRIBUTORS continued Paul Rundell Runestone Telephone Association Rural Cellular Corporation Douglas Ruud Salem Motors Samhold W.E.L.C.A. Anne Sand Robert and Lois Sandberg Avis Sandland Truman and Avis Sandland J. Wendell and Michal Sands Don and Mary Beth Sargeant Gary Satre Marjorie Schafer Theodore Schindler Grace Tangjerd Schmitt James and Kathryn Scott James and Marie Scott Security Bank USA Grant R. Seeger Richard and Barbara Seeger Richard P. Seeger John Seegmiller Seven-Up-Pepsi Cola Bottling Company Sheltering Arms Foundation Frank and Jeanette Shereck Ruth Sherman Sidetrack Tap Thomas and Claudette Siekmeier Marty Sieve Peter and Delores Sinclair Skeeter Stitch Richard and Jean Slinkman Kathryn and John Smith Michael and Dean Smith Robert Soderman Ralph and Karen Sollom Bernadette and Ric Sandenson St. Joseph’s Area Health Services David Starner State Bank of Hawley State Farm, Fergus Falls State of Minnesota

James Steenerson Debandah Steinbar Stenerson Lumber Stevens County Stevens County Implement Joyce Stillwell Terry and Jeannie Stout Jenell Stranberg Strand and Marcy Insurance Agency Inc. Vicki Strand Mrs. Raymond Stromstad Mary Stroozas Susan Sutton Vicki Svedarsky Patricia E. Swanson Thomas and Bonnie Swanson James Swenson, D.D.S., PH.D. Tabor Hill Nannette D. Taylor TDS Fertilizer Team Foundation TEAM Industries Bagley-Audubon, Inc. Ter-Lee Gardens Marilyn Thelen Thibert’s Chevrolet Jane Thibert Carol Thompson Dot Thompson Helen Thompson Jim and Dot Thompson Kim Thompson Dorothy Thandbeck Bradley and Myrna Thorson Thorson Trucking Thrifty White Pharmacy Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Valerie Tinker Triangle Agronomy Services Leanda Trontvedt Caryl Turnow Ole and Ruth Tweet Two Rivers Area Theatre Donna Ulseth

Ultima Bank MN United Building Center United Building Centers Universal Hospital Services, Inc. US Small Business Administration Glandia Vandderbruggen Jeffrey Wade Lin Wahlberg Wal-Mart, Bemidji Bruce Walton Dale Waltz Tim and Mary Wang Ward Muscatell Automotive Group Inc. Warren Senior Center Fund Warren-Alvarado-Oslo School Dist# 2176 Warroad Education Endowment and Project Fund Arlene Wavra Rebecca and Ivan Weir Robert and Jeanette Welle West Central Initiative Dave and Candace West Westridge Dental Center White Earth Reservation Tribal Council Neil Widner Wikstrom Telephone Company, Inc. Ann L. Wilde Wildwood Farms Jay and Geri Wilimek Steven Williams Dr. Bruce and Judy Wilson Kim Wilson Scott and Kim Wilson Timothy and Caren Witzmann Richard A. Wood Conrad Zak Deborah Zak Pete and Doris Zothman

We do our best to maintain an accurate, up-to-date list of donors and apologize for any errors or omissions. Please call our office with corrections.

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2004

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COMPONENT FUNDS Community Service Funds Bagley Early Childhood Initiative Fund Beltrami Humane Society Fund Ralph and Ruth Shoemate Fund Clearwater County Humane Society Fund Crookston Early Childhood Initiative Fund Fosston 21st Century Endowment and Project Fund Four Seasons Senior Center Endowment and Project Fund Heartland Homes Endowment and Project Fund Headwaters Regional Development Commission Leadership Fund Headwaters Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Fund Headwaters Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Building Fund Lake of the Woods County Humane Society Endowment Fund Marshall County Early Childhood Initiative Fund North Border Interfaith Coalition Fund OPTIONS Endowment and Project Fund Park Rapids Early Childhood Initiative Fund Senior Trust Fund of Beltrami County Thief River Falls Early Childhood Initiative Fund Warren Senior Center Endowment Fund WEE-Care Children’s Center Fund (Bagley)

Community Funds Blackduck Community Fund Blackduck Scholarship Fund Greenbush Area Community Fund Mahnomen Area Community Fund Roseau Area Community and Education Fund

32

Joseph Schneider Memorial Scholarship Bruce Wiskow Memorial Fund Warroad Area Community Fund Warroad Early Childhood Initiative Fund Warroad Education Fund Edward and Agnes Brandli Scholarship Fund Farmers Union Oil Co. Scholarship Fund Jennifer Grove Memorial Scholarship Fund Gaylord Gunderson Memorial Fund Lee Hafdahl Memorial Scholarship Ann and Les Henderson Scholarship Fund Justin Knebel Memorial Fund Nick Moyer Memorial and Scholarship Fund Patrick O’Donnell Memorial Scholarship Fund Katie Jo Olafson Memorial Scholarship White Earth Reservation Area Community Fund

Cultural Funds Beltrami County Historical Society Endowment Fund Bemidji Area Arts Endowment Fund Bemidji Community Theater Fund Everett Wilimek Endowment for Violin Studies Fred Marshall Fund for the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts North Star Arts Fund Bemidji Area Public Library Foundation Endowment Fund Dorothy Breen Fund for the Visually Impaired Hazel I. Shimmin Endowment Fund

Clearbrook-Gonvick Performing Arts Fund Lake of the Woods County Historical Society Endowment Fund Roseau County Historical Society Endowment Fund Two Rivers Area Theatre Endowment and Scholarship Fund

Economic Development Funds Lake of the Woods Area Industrial Development Fund Lake of the Woods Industrial Park Fund Lake of the Woods Revolving Loan Fund Park Rapids Revolving Loan Fund

Education Funds Bagley Education Endowment and Project Fund Bagley Technology Advancement Fund Bagley Area Scholarship Fund Bagley Kids II Auditorium Fund Bemidji Lumberjack Foundation Fund All School Reunion Fund Bonspiel Fund John F. Breen Scholarship Fund Ray Breen Scholarship Fund Anderson English Fund Fenger Fund Food Service Fund Fortier Fund Gardner Fund General Scholarship Fund Lee Fund McClure Fund Campbell Music Fund Plummer Music Fund Robins Fund

2004

Building A Foundation For Place

COMPONENT FUNDS continued Sagedahl Fund Lumberjack Scramble Fund Troy Nelson Memorial Character Scholarship Fund Wilson Fund Clearbrook-Gonvick Education Endowment and Project Fund Playground Fund Thorbeck Field Fund District #593 Education Foundation Endowment Fund Frances Drivold Special Education Fund East Polk County Fair Scholarship Fund Fosston Education Foundation Fund Wilma and Franklin Vikan Scholarship Fund Dean Clementson Scholarship Fund LuVerne Trogstad Education and Scholarship Fund Dean and Joyce McNelly Vocational Scholarship Fund Jim Miller Memorial Math Scholarship Fund Fosston Livestock Shipping Assoc. Animal Science Fund Heartland Christian Academy Endowment Fund Julie Holmquist Memorial Scholarship Fund Leonard J. and Rosemond Kucera Memorial Scholarship Fund Lake of the Woods Industrial Development Corporation Scholarship Fund Lake of the Woods Student Intern Fund Laporte Education Fund Laporte-Benedict VFW Scholarship Fund Tonia Johannsen Memorial Fund Community Playground Fund

Mahnomen Education Fund General Scholarship Fund Les Hanson Scholarship Fund Milton Hockel Scholarship Fund Gen. Ike and Maj. Bruce Isaacson Scholarship Fund Track Fund Park Rapids Education and Activities Foundation Fund Nick Peterson Scholarship Fund Red Lake Falls Education Fund Richard Bresnahan Leadership in the Arts Fund Lester Norris Dale, MD Scholarship Fund Kris Fontaine Scholarship Fund Red Lake Band of Chippewa Education Fund St. Mary’s Mission School Endowment and Project Fund Warren-Alvarado-Oslo Education Foundation Lyle H. Engelstad Scholarship Fund Myron and Margaret Carlson Scholarship Fund Music Advancement Fund Luther Younggren Memorial Scholarship Fund

Environment and Recreation Funds Bemidji Area Parks and Trails Endowment and Project Fund Big Bog State Recreation Area Endowment and Project Fund Greater Bemidji Outdoor Foundation Omdahl Environment and Conservation Fund Rydell Refuge Endowment and Project Fund Upper Mississippi Watershed Endowment and Project Fund Wetlands, Pines and Prairie Audubon Sanctuary (Eldor and Stella Omdahl) Endowment Fund

Health Care Funds Clearwater County Area Health Care Fund Clearwater Health Services Memorial Fund Clearwater Health Services Cancer Screening Fund Clearwater Emergency Services Fund Greensview Endowment and Project Fund Greensview Care Center Pet Therapy Fund Hospice Endowment & Project Fund Hospice Family Room Fund Courage Center Programs and Camps Fund First Care Medical Services Foundation First Care Hospice Endowment Fund North Valley Health Center Endowment Fund Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center Foundation Fund

Donor Advised Funds Anonymous Baer Family Fund Ruth Edevold Endowment for Excellence Hewitt Family Charitable Fund Meade Family Fund William A. and Eloise E. Nelson Fund Oja Family Fund Major Robert Olson Memorial Fund Rongen Family Fund Ole and Ruth Tweet Family Fund

Regional Funds/Programs Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Fund Northwest Minnesota Women’s Fund

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Bemidji, MN 56601 Permit No. 36

4225 Technology Drive Northwest Bemidji, MN 56601

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