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N o r t h we s t M i n n e s o t a F o u n d a t i o n

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Monte Draper

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Introduction Mission Statement

As a regional community foundation, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation is committed to making the region a better place to live and work.

We bring people together to develop ideas, provide training and education, and broaden communication. As a funding partner, we help communities, organizations and businesses shape their future. We also are the means by which individuals can add quality to the communities in which they reside through donations to community and component funds.

The family of funds housed at the foundation support the health and education of residents, add to the cultural fabric, provide community services, help people to protect or enjoy the environment, develop economic assets, and help families become involved in philanthropy through donor advised funds.

The volunteers who comprise the advisory committees and the donors who generate these endowments are the power behind philanthropy.

Our family of funds would be worth little without the people who understand that giving to endowment funds is the best investment for the future; they would struggle to succeed without the volunteer advisory committees that seek out donations, promote philanthropy and recommend grants.

It takes caring compassionate people to move the funds forward.

By working through the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, people can exercise their own power of philanthropy with the security of sound management, strong investment strategy and the knowledge that they have made a difference.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation invests resources, creates opportunities and promotes philanthropy to make the region a better place to live and work.

Philanthropy and Quality of Place in Northwest Minnesota The best, classic definition of philanthropy is “private initiatives for public good, focusing on quality of life.� Much and perhaps most of philanthropy is not about the rich helping the poor, but about groups helping themselves; that donors and charities are on the same team as investment partners, not like buyers and sellers. Philanthropy is about selfdevelopment for both donors and beneficiaries; it is a school for values, in which we are all learning.

Philanthropy is more about opportunity than obligation. And philanthropy and government work best as partners. We are dedicated to providing the means to help build awareness and promote philanthropy as a way to meet the needs of the places in our rural region.

Philanthropic services working for you The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides the structure by which individuals, businesses and organizations help create the asset base of their community – component and community funds established by the people in the region are partnering with NMF to create a brighter future for northwest Minnesota.

As you page through this Resource Special Edition, you will see the impressive list of over 225 NMF component funds. Although foundation staff has numerous responsibilities and duties that support the funds, it is the fund advisors and leadership in communities that make them truly successful.

4225 Technology Dr. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 800.659.7859 www.nwmf.org 1

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Greetings!

This year we have truly good news to share. The Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s family of community and component funds has now surpassed the $12.5 million mark in total assets – assets which have been invested in the simple but useful notion that philanthropy begins at home. Charitable giving has taken a very strong hold in our region, improving the quality of its places – in our schools and businesses, communities and households. The desire to make a difference is universal. No matter where we live, work or play, people support the causes, beliefs and good works that are closest to our hearts.

The people involved in supporting the component funds listed in this publication have worked hard to make our communities vital and strong. During the past 21 years, they have also invested in the schools, community organizations, agencies and institutions in our twelve-county region in one way or another.

The NMF endowment has made a lasting difference in our communities for more than 20 years.

Now, we are happy to report that other locallybased funds housed at NMF have grown to the point where grant making from the 225-plus component and community funds actually exceeds the grants given by the foundation itself.

Since the idea of community foundations began over 100 years ago, these organizations have proven to be an effective means for people from all walks of life to give to their charitable causes and to strengthen communities. Since its establishment in 1986, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation has provided individuals with the means to help communities benefit from the charitable impulses of people inside the region and build on the generosity of those from outside of our 12 counties. Together we have developed a strong, flexible institution with over $46 million in endowment, program and loan assets.

We invite you to read about the work of the funds in your area of interest and consider making a charitable contribution within your means.

On behalf of the board of directors, thank you for your continued support.

Eric Bergeson NMF Board Chair

The community foundation concept has the power to build more than just financial resources. It brings people together around a common mission. It creates links between the past and the future and builds bridges between citizens from varied backgrounds.

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Community Foundation What is a Community Foundation?

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s mission is to promote philanthropy; to be a channel through which individuals and organizations may direct gifts for community betterment in a way that will provide the greatest lasting benefit.

The bedrock of NMF is our donors, those who give back to Northwest Minnesota a part of the good that has come to them. People and organizations turn to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation to express their concern for the community. They share a belief in the importance of nurturing a culture of caring.

The donors, partners, directors and staff of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation also share a vision for our region. NMF is a tool that benefits everyone because it serves the region and the individuals who reside here. Our donors are people who see a need and work to satisfy it, who understand dreams and take actions to fulfill them.

Until 1987, northwestern Minnesota had been one of the few areas of the state without its own community foundation. The region has missed opportunities to benefit from large charitable endowment gifts or bequests because there has been no grantmaking organization in place to receive such gifts.

Board Terri Anderson, Director, Ogema Ann Beck, Director, Bagley Eric Bergeson, Chair, Fertile David Bergman, Director, Thief River Falls Bob Hager, Director, Greenbush Mark Hewitt, Director, Park Rapids Dean Johnson, Treasurer, Mahnomen Roger Malm, Director, Hallock Gary Purath, Secretary, Red Lake Falls Anne Sand, Vice Chair, Bemidji Kim Wilson, Director, Fosston Laurie Wilson, Director, Crookston

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation encourages donors of modest or ample means to turn their charitable dreams into realities. We help simplify and expand charitable giving by pooling funds and responding to both the needs of the community and the donor.

Not surprisingly, community foundations are the fastest growing sector of organized philanthropy in the United States. These permanent endowment funds provide benefits in the following four ways— they offer economic and efficient services to donors; attract new money into local charitable giving; provide immediate aid to emerging and existing community needs; and are agents for positive change in the community.

Because a community foundation is not dedicated to one specific cause, it can aid local charities and nonprofit organizations in a variety of areas--from the arts to education, from the environment to helping the elderly, all contributing to a healthy community. A community foundation is designed to complement existing individual nonprofit organizations by acting as a bridge between a variety of interests and the ongoing needs of the community.

Staff Lin Backstrom, Early Childhood Development Specialist Peggy Crandall, Grants Services Associate Samantha Hedin, Administrative Assistant Ritchie Houge, Vice President for Philanthropic Services Sandra Kamnikar, Accounting Associate Jane McKelvy, Training Specialist Diane Morey, Business Development Specialist John Ostrem, President 3

Lisa Peterson, Communications Director Marty Sieve, Vice President for Programs Jim Steenerson, Grants Specialist Holly Tri, Administrative Assistant Caryl Turnow, Fund Development/Business Development Specialist Tim Wang, Finance Director David West, Business Finance Specialist

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Community Funds The Northwest Minnesota Foundation has established Community Funds in key areas throughout its region of service. These funds maintain a local focus and work to address the same needs as the Northwest Minnesota Foundation itself, but in a manner specific to those communities in which they serve. This method of “helping communities help themselves” increases donor involvement, encourages local participation, and builds on hometown pride. It’s just one more way that the Northwest Minnesota Foundation works to develop our community assets.

BADGER AREA COMMUNITY FUND

The foundation’s Community Funds Program provides a framework for communities in Northwest Minnesota to start or add to existing community endowment funds and make grants to improve their communities.

School district borders define the community funds and sub-funds.

Foundation Community Funds have an independent advisory committee made up of concerned citizens and community leaders.

The mission of the committee is: • Provide leadership in meeting the changing needs in their community • Mobilize citizens to become active partners in building a better community place • Provide a central fund for receiving charitable gifts and bequests • Match the philanthropic interest of donors with new and existing community needs that require support • Promote the community fund and attract assets • Execute grant making decisions for the fund The foundation is a steward through which private assets entrusted to us by generations of donors are wisely invested to meet the challenges of contemporary life. Visit the web site www.nwmffunds.org

Bagley Area Scholarship Fund

Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve the quality of life for residents and/or visitors of the Badger area

Badger Education Fund Support for programs, projects or activities that enhance and/or promote educational experiences for learners of all ages

BAGLEY AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve the quality of life for residents and/or visitors of the Bagley area Supports area young people in their post secondary education careers

Bagley Beautification Fund Support for community improvement projects that help build a positive and inviting attitude in Bagley

Bagley Early Childhood Initiative Fund Supports community projects that benefit children from birth – age 5

Bagley Education Endowment & Project Fund Supports activities, projects, or services that benefit the area’s students, staff, programs and institutions

Bagley Technology Advancement Fund Supports programs, projects, and activities that enhance the technological opportunities for students in ISD #162

BLACKDUCK COMMUNITY FUND Supports the growth of Blackduck and the surrounding area

Blackduck Academic and Character Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Blackduck High School

FOSSTON AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve the quality of life for residents and/or visitors of the Fosston area

Cameron Badurek Memorial Fund To provide annual funding for the ‘Cameron Badurek Peace Award’ given in Cam’s memory and a scholarship; and, to provide funding for “Cam’s Legacy,” a community grant program benefiting that improves life in the Fosston area

Arvid Clementson Veterans' Memorial Fund Supports programs, projects, and activities that recognize the commitment, service and sacrifice of U.S. Armed Forces personnel from Fosston

Dean Clementson Scholarship Fund Supports Fosston High School students entering into public service careers

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Community Funds Fosston 21st Century Endowment and Project Fund

PARK RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Supports the Fosston Community Library Arts Association in Fosston, and advances cultural, social and civic interests

Supports charitable and public purpose activities and projects that enhance the quality of life in the Park Rapids area

Fosston Education Foundation

Heartland Homes Endowment and Project Fund

Supports the students, staff, educational programs, and institutions in Fosston

Supports the Heartland Homes group homes for developmentally disabled individuals

Fosston Livestock Shipping Association Animal Science Scholarship Fund

Hewitt Family Charitable Fund Provides financial support that focuses on the Park Rapids and Nevis area

Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing education in Animal Science

Kinship of Park Rapids Fund

Dean & Joyce McNelly Vocational Scholarship Fund

Provides financial support for activities, projects, or services for a preventive program for children, by matching them with Kinship volunteers for adult friendship and role modeling

Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students who attended a vocational class and graduated, or earned a high school equivalency diploma

Park Rapids Early Childhood Initiative Fund

Jim Miller Memorial Math Scholarship Fund

Supports community projects that benefit children birth – age 5

Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing education in mathematics

Park Rapids Education & Activities Foundation Fund Promotes strong and healthy educational, fine arts, and athletic programs of the Park Rapid High Schools

Terry Stout Memorial Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing education in an education-related profession, with preference for the fields of social science and English

Park Rapids Memorial Scholarship Fund Support scholarships to students from Park Rapids schools who had any link to athletics in high school

LuVerne Trogstad Education and Scholarship Fund

Matthew Spangler Hockey Fund

Supports scholarships to students and faculty from Fosston High School

Supports programs, projects and activities associated with the mission of youth hockey programs in the Park Rapids area

Wilma & Franklin Vikan Scholarship Fund

RED LAKE BAND OF CHIPPEWA INDIANS COMMUNITY FUND

Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing higher education in the field of music

Supports charitable and public purpose activities and projects that enhance the quality of life on the Red Lake Reservation

GREENBUSH AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Education Fund

Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve the quality of life for residents and/or visitors of the Greenbush area

Supports activities, projects, or services designed to enhance the educational opportunities for members of the Tribe and/or to benefit education professionals, educational programs and institutions serving the Tribe

Greenbush Education Fund Supports activities, projects, or services to benefit the area’s students, staff, educational programs and institutions

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians Renewal and Recovery Fund

Keith and Ellen Kapphahn Family Scholarship Fund

Provides financial support for programs, projects, and activities which assist the Tribe and others in the recovery process and renewal following the March 21, 2005 tragedy

Supports annual scholarships to qualified high school students from ISD #2683 (Greenbush-Middle River) and ISD #676 (Badger) who are pursuing post-secondary education

Red Lake Tribal Information Center, Archives, & Library Fund

MAHNOMEN AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that enhance or improve the quality of life in the Mahnomen area

Support for programs, projects and activities that benefit or that serve to collect, preserve, and make available the history, culture, and heritage of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians

Mahnomen Health Care Fund

Youth Initiative Fund

Supports charitable, educational, and health care activities, or services benefiting residents of Mahnomen County and the greater service area of Mahnomen Health Center

Provides financial support for programs, projects and activities benefiting or serving the youth of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians

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Community Funds RED LAKE FALLS AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Edward and Agnes Brandli Scholarship Fund

Support activities, projects, or services that will enhance or otherwise improve the quality of life enjoyed by residents and/or visitors of the Red Lake Falls Area

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School pursuing education and engineering careers

ROSEAU AREA COMMUNITY & EDUCATION FUND

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School pursuing agriculture or agriculture related business education careers

Farmers Union Oil Co. Scholarship Fund

Supports activities, projects or services that will enhance cultural, educational and recreational opportunities in the Roseau area

Jennifer Grove Memorial Scholarship Fund

A.J. Kramer Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Roseau graduates who juniors or seniors year in a college or university with a major in Education in the field of health or physical education or are earning an athletic coaching certificate

Marian Foley Memorial Fund

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School pursuing nursing or a healthcare-related career

Gaylord Gunderson Memorial Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School; provides funding for purchase or repair of equipment or project improvements to the Warroad High School.

Lee Hafdahl Memorial Scholarship

Supports scholarships to students from Roseau High School and grants to the community

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School with involvement in community activities

Marvin LaRue Memorial Fund

Ann and Les Henderson Scholarship Fund

Supports scholarships and programs for music and technical writing to students from Roseau High School

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School pursuing post-secondary technical education

Roseau Adult Education Fund

Margaret Ann and Paul Samuel Johnson Family Charitable Fund

Supports Roseau residents for pursuit of post-secondary education degrees and community education for skills training or enhancement

Support for qualifying charitable and educational programs, projects, and activities

Roseau Area Friends of the Library Fund

Dorrance H. Johnston Scholarship for Engineering Fund

Supports programs, projects, and activities benefiting the Roseau Area Public Library and the Roseau Area Friends of the Library

Roseau Lions Club Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to high school students from ISD #682 for tuition and books or direct educational material expenses

Supports scholarship(s) to graduates of Warroad High School who are pursuing their final year of education through an accredited college or university with a major in engineering

Justin Knebel Memorial Fund

Roseau Parks and Recreation Fund

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School

Supports parks, trails, and recreational amenities of the Roseau areaJoseph Schneider Memorial Scholarship Supports scholarships to students from Roseau High School

Nick Moyer Memorial and Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School; supports athletic activities

Bruce Wiskow Memorial Fund

Napa Ride to Reading Fund Supports financing of books, programs, projects and activities associated with the Warroad School Libraries

Supports scholarships to students from ISD #682

WARROAD AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Patrick O’Donnell Memorial Scholarship Fund

Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve quality of life in the Warroad area

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School

Katie Jo Olafson Memorial Scholarship

Bruce and Ellen Atwater Education Fund

Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School

Supports scholarship(s) to graduates of Warroad High School, who are pursuing education in a health care profession and provides funding for programs, projects, and activities that encourage/ support individual interest in the health care profession

Rainbow Park Restoration Fund Supports the restoration of the playground area of Rainbow Park, including both equipment and the grounds

Warroad Care Center Fund

Betty Bahnmiller Memorial Fund

Supports programs, projects and activities associated with the stated mission of the Warroad Care Center

Provides scholarships to dependents of past and present members of a U.S. Navy UDT/SEAL team and who are former students from Warroad High School

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Community Funds Warroad Early Childhood Initiative Fund

Warroad Memorial Arena Fund

Supports community projects that benefit children from birth - age 5

Warroad Education Fund

Supports charitable activities or projects that will enhance or improve the Warroad ice skating arena

Supports activities, projects, or services to benefit the area’s students, staff, educational programs and institutions

Warroad Point Area Restoration and Community Recovery Fund

Warroad Heritage Center Fund

Supports public and private restoration efforts that help people and businesses recover and restore tourism to the Point area

Support for programs, projects and activities associated with the mission of the Warroad Heritage Center

Warroad Swim Program Fund Supports programs, projects and activities associated with or supplementing the Warroad Public Schools swim program or the Warroad Outstanding Warriors Swim Club

Warroad Lost River Sportsmen Complex Fund Supports acquisitions and maintenance of equipment and/or facilities and programs, projects, educational, and charitable activities at the Lost River Sportsmen Complex

WHITE EARTH RESERVATION AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that enhance or improve quality of life on the White Earth Reservation

Ritchie Houge has been working in fund development for the past 22 years. He was hired by Northwest Minnesota Foundation in 1996. Since that time, the foundation has provided services as the region's community foundation, and in that role, added the management of over 225 donor advised, area-of-interest and agency endowment funds.

Houge is a member of the Ritchie Houge Association of Fund Raising Vice President for Philanthropic Services Professionals, North Dakota Chapter, and past chapter president and program chair.

He is one of the founding members of the Headwaters Estate Planning Council.

Through involvement with AFP and in his work with the foundation, Houge has worked to promote and sponsor various fund development training programs to enhance capabilities, professionalism and ethical fund raising in northwest Minnesota.

Houge has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies and a Juris Doctorate from the University of North Dakota. He lives in Bemidji with his wife Kelly, and sons Matthew and Michael.

Caryl Turnow has been working in finance and training for the past 25 years. She operated her own CPA practice for nine years before selling and joining the foundation in 1998 working in business development.

Turnow works closely with donors and advisory committees of component and community funds to promote philanthropy in the region.

Caryl Turnow Development Specialist Turnow is a member of the Association of Fund Raising Professionals of North Dakota, is a Certified Economic Development Financial Professional, as well as holds a CPA license (inactive) in Minnesota.

Turnow earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting at Bowling Green State University and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree at Keller University. She lives in Roseau with her husband Paul and has two sons attending college.

Turnow works from a satellite office in Roseau.

Phone 218-463-0440, e-mail cturnow@wiktel.com.

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Component Funds – by County Northwest Minnesota Foundation funds help individual donors, groups and families act on deeply held values and community commitments. They are established to benefit a specific nonprofit community organization or interest area, and NMF manages the assets. NMF also assists community nonprofits with the important work of building their asset bases. This helps organizations further their missions and ensures that they operate with continued success.

You have the opportunity to support one of more of the 225 plus funds that are described. Please use the donation form inserted in this Resource.

Staff is available to work with individuals and families interested in establishing component funds. Your fund might support a wide range of charitable activities within a defined area and purpose, or it could be designated to a specific charitable beneficiary. Contact Ritchie Houge or Caryl Turnow at 218-759-2057 or 800-659-7859.

BEMIDJI AREA ARTS ENDOWMENT FUND Supports art activities, projects, or services and organizations in the Bemidji area

Bemidji Community Arts Center Fund Supports the promotion and encouragement of all aspects of art in Bemidji and the surrounding area

Bemidji Community Theater Fund Supports the Bemidji Community Theater and its mission

Fred Marshall Fund for the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts Supports the mission of the Headwaters School of Music and the Arts

Richard and Pam Nelson Family Fund for the Visual Arts Support programs, projects, activities and organizations benefiting visual arts and education in the Bemidji area

North Star Arts Fund Supports arts programming for persons with developmental disabilities

Ernie Rall Children's Performing Arts Fund Supports programs, projects, activities, and organizations in the Bemidji area that support, encourage or otherwise help young people to continue their interest in the performing arts

Beltrami County BACKSTROM FAMILY CHARITABLE FUND Provides financial support for qualifying charitable and educational programs, projects, and activities

HB and Ina T. Roholt Family Fund for the Arts Supports programs, projects, activities and organizations benefiting arts and education in the Bemidji area

BAER FAMILY FUND Provides financial support for community development in Bemidji, scholarships at Bemidji State University, materials for the Bemidji Area Public Library, and healthcare services at North Country Regional Hospital

Everett Wilimek Endowment for Violin Studies Supports young people studying the violin

BEMIDJI AREA PARKS AND TRAILS ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND

BELTRAMI HUMANE SOCIETY FUND

Provides financial support for the park, trail, and recreational amenities of the Bemidji area

Supports activities, projects or services designed to protect and benefit the well-being of domestic animals

Bemidji City Parks and Trails Operation and Maintenance Fund

Ralph and Ruth Shoemate Fund Provides funding for cages and equipment for the cats and dogs

Support for the operation and maintenance of parks, trails and other recreational amenities within the City of Bemidji

BELTRAMI COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUND

Bemidji First City of Lights Fund Provides general funding for the First City of Lights festivities at the Bemidji Waterfront

Supports activities, projects, or services to further the mission of the Beltrami County Historical Society

Bemidji Waterfront-Paul and Babe Maintenance Fund Provides general funding for the restoration of the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues in Bemidji

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Component Funds – by County BEMIDJI AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT FUND

participate in post secondary intercollegiate athletics

Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefit the Bemidji Public Library

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students pursuing an automotive or industrial technology degree

Bemidji Area Public Library Mural Fund

General Scholarship Fund

Supports the development and creation of an artistic display in the main entry of the Bemidji Library

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students which include: Beltrami Electric Cooperative Scholarship First National Bank Foundation Scholarship National Honor Society Scholarship (Rural Cellular Corporation) Paul Bunyan Telephone Cooperative George Pelawa/Calgary Flames Scholarship Ken VanWilgen Memorial Scholarship

Tom Gardner Memorial Fund

Dorothy Breen Fund for the Visually Impaired Supports the collection of materials benefiting the visually impaired patrons of the Bemidji Public Library

Hazel I. Shimmin Endowment Fund Supports the Bemidji Public Library and/or the Bemidji Public Library Foundation

Ruth Stenerson Project Support Fund Provides financial support for enhancements to the Bemidji Area Public Library

Rick Lee Memorial Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students pursuing a degree in industrial technology

BEMIDJI CURLING FUND Supports programs, projects and activities that encourage participation in the sport of curling

Heidi Bitzer McClure Memorial Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students

BEMIDJI LUMBERJACK FOUNDATION FUND

Troy Nelson Memorial Character Scholarship Endowment Fund

Supports activities, projects, or services that enhance or improve the education and opportunities in ISD #31

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students who have participated in varsity athletics with demonstrated leadership qualities

All School Reunion Fund Supports specific activities that will benefit students in ISD #31

Joe Plummer Music Fund

Amy Anderson English Fund

Supports the purchase of jazz related equipment or supplies for ISD #31

Provides awards for poetry, creative writing and illustration for Bemidji Middle School Students

Buck Robbins Scholarship Fund

Bonspiel Fund Supports athletic activities and/or equipment for ISD #31

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students involved in athletics

John F. Breen Scholarship Fund

Des Sagedahl Scholarship Fund

Supports scholarships to students from Bemidji High School

Ray Breen Scholarship Fund

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students involved in baseball

Supports scholarships to students from Bemidji High School

Lumberjack Security Bank Scramble Fund

Pat Campbell String Fund

Supports athletic activities and/or equipment for ISD #31

Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students participating in BHS Orchestra

K. E. “Red” Wilson Athletic Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students who have participated in varsity athletics and are pursuing a physical education degree or a related discipline

Food Service Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students pursuing a food service related career

Ruth Shannon Wilson Scholarship in Music Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students who have leadership roles in Bemidji High School music programs and pursuing a music degree

Bun and Alvera Fortier Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students who have participated in football or basketball and will

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Component Funds – by County BIG BOG STATE RECREATION AREA ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND

JAMES AND SYLVIA SANDE SCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports scholarships to students from ISD #31 (Bemidji), and ISD #115 (Cass Lake-Bena)

Supports the development of the Big Bog State Recreation area

SENIOR TRUST FUND OF BELTRAMI COUNTY

THE EVERGREEN HOUSE FUND

Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefit senior citizens in Beltrami County

Provides financial support to further the mission of Evergreen House and the services it provides.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI WATERSHED ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND

GIZIIBII RESOURCE CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT FUND

Provides current and long term support for activities

Supports activities, projects, or services that balance growth of the economy and wise stewardship of natural resources, in support of the mission of the Giziibii RC&D service area

GREATER BEMIDJI OUTDOOR FOUNDATION

Clearwater County CLEARBROOK-GONVICK EDUCATION ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND Supports activities, projects or services that benefit the area’s students, staff, programs and institutions that benefit the Clearbrook-Gonvick school

Supports building, maintaining, and promoting the use of non-motorized public trails in the Greater Bemidji area

HEADWATERS UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP FUND

CLEARBROOK-GONVICK PERFORMING ARTS FUND

Supports and furthers the mission of the fellowship

Supports the establishment of a facility for the performing arts in Clearbrook, MN

HEARTLAND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ENDOWMENT FUND Provides financial support for activities, projects, or services that benefit the students, educators, facilities, and programs offered by or through the Academy

Mary Jo Klinger Scholarship Fund

KELLIHER AREA HEALTH CARE FUND

Olga Peterson Scholarship Fund

Supports health care related activities and projects that benefit residents of the Kelliher area

Supports scholarships to graduates of Clearbrook-Gonvick Public High School

Kelliher Area Seniors Fund

Playground Fund

Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefit senior citizens in Kelliher

Provides funding for the playground benefiting the Clearbrook-Gonvick School

MEADE FAMILY FUND

Thorbeck Field Fund

Supports charitable and educational programs, projects, and activities benefiting educators in Minnesota and North Dakota

Provides financial support for development and improvements to the outdoor recreation field at the ClearbrookGonvick School

WILLIAM A. AND ELOISE E. NELSON FUND

CLEARWATER COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY FUND

Supports charitable, education and scientific programs, projects, and activities; preference given to educational or environmental interests

Supports the maintenance and needs of animals housed with Clearwater County Humane Society

OJA FAMILY FUND

Promotes programs and projects that will enhance quality healthcare in the community

Supports qualifying charitable and educational programs, projects, and activities

ST. MARY’S MISSION SCHOOL ENDOWMENT & PROJECT FUND Supports the general operations of the school program and assists with renovations

Supports scholarships to graduates of Clearbrook-Gonvick Public High School

CLEARWATER COUNTY AREA HEALTH CARE FUND

Clearwater Emergency Services Fund Provides programs, equipment and services conducted by emergency services organizations in Clearwater County or areas served by Clearwater Health Services

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Component Funds – by County Clearwater Health Services Cancer Screening Fund Provides funding for a portion of medical care for patients with cancer or cancer related illnesses and/or for programs and services

Clearwater Hospice Endowment & Project Fund Provides funding to ensure the future of the Hospice Program

Clearwater Hospice Family Room Fund Supports the construction and maintenance of a private room within the Clearwater County Memorial Hospital for family members of Hospice patients

Greensview Care Center Pet Therapy Fund Supports projects, supplies and maintenance of the pet therapy service offered through or at the Center

Greensview Endowment and Project Fund Supports programs, equipment, and services that enhance the quality of life and benefit the residents of the Center

WEE-CARE CHILDREN’S CENTER FUND Supports a non-profit childcare center serving Clearwater County

Hubbard County LAPORTE EDUCATION FUND

Lake of the Woods County LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUND Supports the maintenance and needs of animals housed with the Lake of the Woods County Humane Society

LAKE OF THE WOODS INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT FUND Provides support for economic development in Lake of the Woods County

Lake of the Woods Student Intern Fund Supports programs, projects, and activities that encourage employment, training and entrepreneur opportunities for students in Lake of the Woods County

Lake of the Woods Industrial Development Corporation Scholarship Fund Provides financial support for programs, projects, activities and scholarships that benefit students from Lake of the Woods County

LAKE OF THE WOODS REVOLVING LOAN FUND Supports business development and expansion in Lake of the Woods County

Mahnomen County

Supports activities, projects, or services benefiting students, staff, educational programs and institutions and scholarships to students from the Laporte school

MAHNOMEN EDUCATION FUND

Community Playground Fund

General Scholarship Fund

Provides funding for the playground benefiting the Laporte school district and greater Laporte community

Supports scholarships to Mahnomen High School students

Tonia Johannsen Memorial Fund

Supports scholarships to Mahnomen High School students

Supports scholarships to students in District #306 pursuing education, nursing, social work or community service field; and, for extracurricular activities

Milton Hockel Scholarship Fund

Laporte-Benedict VFW Scholarship Fund

Gen. Ike and Maj. Bruce Isaacson Scholarship Fund

Supports scholarships to students from Laporte High School and the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School who live in Lakeport

Kittson County JULIE HOLMQUIST MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports scholarships to Hallock area students

KITTSON MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE CENTER FOUNDATION FUND

Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefit the area’s students, staff, programs and Institutions

Les Hanson Scholarship Fund

Supports scholarships to students pursuing the field of Natural Resources Supports scholarships to students pursuing geography, social studies, history, or any other related field

Night Riders Sno-Club Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Mahnomen and Waubun schools

Track Fund Provides financial support for expenses of an athletic track facility in Mahnomen

Supports recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals, skill upgrading for current staff, and for building and equipment improvements

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Component Funds – by County NAYTAHWAUSH EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND Supports community projects that benefit children from birth – age 5

Marshall County MARSHALL COUNTY EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND Supports community projects that benefit children from birth – age 5

NORTH VALLEY HEALTH CENTER ENDOWMENT FUND Supports capital improvements for the facility, equipment purchases, and professional education and recruitments

Norman County BRIDGES MEDICAL SERVICES FOUNDATION Supports the purchase, maintenance and repair of physical therapy, occupational therapy, cardiac rehabilitation equipment, instruments and facilities at Bridges Medical Services in Ada, MN

LAURAL CAPISTRAN MURPHY SCHOLARSHIP FUND Provides scholarships to students from Norman County who have participated in Norman County 4-H programs

Pennington County

OMDAHL ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION FUND

THIEF RIVER FALLS EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND

Supports charitable educational and scientific programs, projects, and activities that support or benefit environmental and conservation causes

Supports community projects that benefit children birth – age 5

WARREN SENIOR CENTER ENDOWMENT FUND Supports essential services and programs for the community’s seniors

WARREN-ALVARADO-OSLO EDUCATION FOUNDATION

OLE AND RUTH TWEET FAMILY FUND Provides financial support for areas of interest to the Tweet family

Polk County

Supports preserving and enhancing current education programs and provides scholarships for students pursuing a college education

CROOKSTON EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND

Myron and Margaret Carlson Scholarship Fund

DISTRICT #593 (CROOKSTON) EDUCATION FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT FUND

Supports scholarships to Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High School students

Lyle H. Engelstad Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High School students

Music Advancement Fund Supports music education, performance and other musical opportunities for students at ISD #2176

Supports community projects that benefit children from birth – age 5

Supports educational opportunities for the districts’ students and for scholarships to students pursuing a career in education

Frances Drivold Special Education Fund Supports life skills and vocational programs for developmentally disabled students

EAST POLK COUNTY FAIR SCHOLARSHIP FUND

WETLANDS, PINES, & PRAIRIE AUDUBON SANCTUARY (ELDOR AND STELLA OMDAHL) ENDOWMENT FUND

Supports scholarships, programs, projects and activities benefiting students from East Polk County

Supports the activities, projects, or services designed to provide on-site and regional environmental education; manages the sanctuary for birds and wildlife species; and, develops demonstration areas for land management practices

FERTILE AREA ARMED FORCES VETERANS FUND Supports programs, projects and activities that recognize the commitment, service and sacrifice of the United States Armed Forces personnel from Fertile

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Component Funds – by County FERTILE-BELTRAMI EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND Supports community projects that benefit children birth – age 5

FIRST CARE MEDICAL SERVICES FOUNDATION Supports the mission and long term stability of First Care Medical Services

First Care Hospice Endowment Fund Supports the First Care Medical Services Hospice program

RONGEN FAMILY FUND Supports charitable and educational programs, projects, and activities to benefit the larger community

Red Lake County RED LAKE FALLS EDUCATION FUND

Roseau County FOUR SEASONS SENIOR CENTER ENDOWMENT & PROJECT FUND Supports the nutrition and educational programs to senior citizens in the Roseau community

LIFE CARE MEDICAL CENTER HEALTH FUND Provides financial support for health care and senior living related charitable and educational activities, projects, or services benefiting residents and visitors to the Life Care Medical Center service area.

Eagles Auxiliary Diabetes & Dialysis Fund Provides financial support for programs and services offered by RAHH that address the diabetic & dialysis needs in the service area

Supports educational excellence in the Red Lake Falls school district

Life Care Medical Center Hospice Fund

Richard Bresnahan Leadership in the Arts Fund

Maggi Adams Medical Equipment Fund

Supports professional development opportunities for teachers and artists who teach primarily in ISD #630 and/or programs for arts education

Support for medical equipment or other related purposes at Roseau Area Hospital and Homes

Lester Norris Dale, MD Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Red Lake Falls students in medically related fields

Provides financial support for education, staffing, equipment and activities related to parish nurse programs within RAHH communities

Kris Fontaine Scholarship Fund

Roseau County Historical Society Endowment Fund

Supports scholarship to students in Red Lake Falls

Provides current and long-term support for the Roseau County Historical Society

Kim Knaack Music Fund Supports music or band programs, projects, and activities at Red Lake Falls schools

Kyle A. Myhre Memorial Fund Provides for an annual scholarship (the Kyle A. Myhre ‘Learn to Fly’ Scholarship) and an annual recognition program with a scholarship award (Kindness Always Matters)

TWO RIVERS AREA THEATRE ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND — SCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports activities, projects, or services that benefit the Two Rivers area, with preference given to the presentation of amateur theatrical productions

Supports the Life Care Medical Center Hospice program.

Parish Nursing Fund

Sheltering Oaks Manor Fund Supports programs, projects, activities, and facilities related to Sheltering Oaks Manor and mission

NORTH BORDER INTERFAITH COALITION FUND Supports the North Border Interfaith Coalition mission

NICK PETERSON SCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports scholarships to Roseau High School Seniors; and/or contributes to charitable organizations that assist persons in poverty, youth education, youth athletics, or drug abuse education and rehabilitation

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Component Funds – by County Multi-County/Regional COURAGE CENTER PROGRAMS AND CAMPS FUND Supports programs, projects, activities, or services that further the mission of the Courage Center

FOURTH AND ROBBINS FUND

MISSISSIPPI HEADWATERS AREA DENTAL HEALTH CENTER FUND Provides financial support for non-competitive dental service for the underprivileged and underinsured and access and education for emergency/preventative care, particularly for children

Supports programs, projects and activities that benefit religious, cultural, social justice, health and wellness, educational, recreational and environmental organizations in Bemidji, Willmar and statewide

NORTHWEST MINNESOTA WOMEN’S FUND

HEADWATERS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION LEADERSHIP FUND

MAJOR ROBERT OLSON MEMORIAL FUND

Supports leadership-related activities and initiatives of the HRDC

HRDC Successful Communities Challenge Fund Support communities within the Headwaters Region for taking action on critical issues

HOPES, DREAMS AND SMILES FUND

Supports activities, projects, services or programs that improve the quality of life and strengthening and empowerment of women and girls in the region Support for charitable and educational programs, projects, activities or services benefiting the Littlefork-Big Falls Public school district and for scholarships to Littlefork-Big Falls school district students

OPTIONS ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND Assists individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community of their choice

Provides children from North Dakota and Minnesota with a life threatening illness the opportunity to enjoy a special event or other activity that will have a positive impact on them

RED RIVER VALLEY EMERGING LEADERSHIP FUND

INGENUITY FRONTIER FUND

MIKE STAPLES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Supports activities and projects that enhance or improve the applied engineering and manufacturing capacity in Northwest Minnesota

Provides scholarships to students interested in pursuing a career as a conservation officer from ISD #31 (Bemidji), ISD #32 (Blackduck), ISD #317 (Deer River), ISD #306 (Laporte), ISD #115 (Cass Lake Bena), ISD #318 (Grand Rapids-Big Fork) and ISD #113 (Walker-Hackensack-Akeley)

LEONARD J. AND ROSEMOND KUCERA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Supports rural leadership development and other programs that develop and expand leadership skills of people within or associated with the Red River Valley

Supports scholarships to students from International Falls, Indus, Littlefork-Big Falls, or Northome schools

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Funds and Gifts The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides flexible With as little as $2,000, an agency or field of interest and responsive ways for making gifts, by which our fund may be established to serve any charitable donors may realize significant tax benefits while leverag- purpose. These funds benefit a specific nonprofit ing their charitable contributions for greater gain. community organization or interest area.

Donor advised funds allow individual donors and families the opportunity to act on deeply held values Security and community interests. Local community funds Donors can be assured that their gifts will endure help bring charitable interests and philanthropic to benefit future generations. potential together, to support existing and future community needs.

Professional Management All NMF funds qualify for maximum charitable tax Donors have a variety of deferred giving options deductibility as gifts to a public charity. Fund assets and estate planning. are managed by NMF under a written investment policy. NMF staff provides support and training for Tax Benefits the important work of building community assets through these funds and overseeing responsible Donors can achieve their philanthropic objectives grant making. This helps further nonprofit and while providing the benefits of additional income, community success by allowing more time to stewardship, and estate tax and capital gains tax focus on the mission. Through philanthropy, groups reduction; gifts to NMF qualify for charitable gift and individuals make lasting differences in their deductions to the extent of the law.

Investing money for charitable purposes requires care communities, leaving legacies that reflect their values for generations. and skill, and also yields great rewards. Even small gifts, strategically placed, can make tremendous differences in a community’s quality of life.

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Planned Giving Planned Giving Options in Personal and Family Philanthropy

Retirement Plan Assets from qualified 401(k), Keogh, 403(b), IRA, or profit sharing plans can be used to create a charitable fund in your name.

Philanthropy offers some of the most satisfying Gifting retirement plan assets may also reduce pleasures in life because it calls forth and gives estate tax liabilities incurred by your heirs. expression to the best in us. Grounded by values, Ritchie Houge, Vice President for Philanthropic fueled by caring and optimism, extended by generosServices, is your resource for information about ity, and evaluated on concrete results, it is rewarded ways to give and types of gifts that will benefit your by the deep gratification of a job well done. long-term charitable objectives for the most direct Planned giving allows you to take advantage and lasting impact.

Please call him toll free at of a favorable tax deduction now in exchange 1-800-659-7859 or e-mail ritchh@nwmf.org.

He for a future commitment to the foundation from would be happy to meet with both you and your you or your estate. financial/legal advisor(s) to establish a gift vehicle Including the Northwest Minnesota Foundation that most effectively meets your needs. and/or component funds in your will is an easy Please visit the Northwest Minnesota Foundation way to create a permanent memorial to the good web site www.nwmf.org and click on our Planned works you cared about during your lifetime. Here Giving Guide for complete, comprehensive and are some options: easy-to-understand information about your gift Bequests of cash, securities, or property can options. significantly reduce estate tax liability which Our site contains a comprehensive resource ultimately benefits your heirs. for your gift planning questions.

Charitable Remainder Trusts offer you or another • Discover all of the tax and income benefits beneficiary income for a lifetime or through the term of the trust. When the trust expires, the foundation of the various kinds of planned gifts. receives the remainder to carry out your charitable • Read in-depth about trusts and annuities intentions. that pay you an income for life.

Charitable Gift Annuities can secure fixed annual • Get tips on how you can make gifts from life payments for life by making a contribution to our insurance policies, retirement plan assets or organization. Our charitable gift annuity will pay you appreciated property. (and a survivor, if desired) a fixed dollar amount • Learn how to set up your will so that the governwhen you make an irrevocable gift. The rate of ment does not benefit more than your heirs. payment is determined by your age at the time • Discover a virtual encyclopedia of information of your contribution. on how and what to give.

Life Insurance is an excellent choice for creating a • Access hundreds of up-to-date articles on major gift at little cost to you. By naming the foundation as owner and beneficiary of a new or existing life making the most of your charitable giving. insurance policy, you receive a tax deduction for the • Calculate your income tax deduction for value and any subsequent premium payments. When charitable gifts. the policy is redeemed, the Foundation will use the proceeds to carry out your charitable objectives.

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Charitable Gifts from Your IRA Thanks to the success of tax-deferred investments within qualified retirement plans, many people have found that they have sufficient funds for retirement and that they will probably have funds left for distribution to heirs and charitable causes they wish to support. Recent changes in the distribution laws governing individual retirement accounts (IRAs) have made it easier to give a portion of your IRA to charitable organizations you wish to help.

Special Legislation Allows Charitable Gifts from Your IRA Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, you may be eligible to make a gift from your IRA while you are living without incurring undesirable tax effects. Prior to the new law, you would have to report any amount taken from your IRA as taxable income, and then take a charitable deduction for the gift, but only up to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income. In effect, this caused some donors to pay more in income taxes than if they didn’t make a gift at all.

Fortunately, from now through December 31, 2007, these IRA gifts can be accomplished simply and without tax complications. Plus, you can make the gift while you are living and able to witness the benefits of your generosity.

Like many Americans, you may find that your qualified retirement plans like IRAs are a major resource — possibly even comprising most of your overall assets.

The term “qualified retirement plan” includes other pension plans; profit-sharing and stock bonus plans; employee stock-ownership plans (ESOPs); plans for self-employed persons (Keogh plans); and section 403(b) tax-sheltered annuities for employees of tax-exempt organizations.

If you’re past age 701/2 and are retired, you generally have no choice but to begin receiving 17

minimum distributions from a retirement plan or IRA. Perhaps you don’t need these payments for your financial security. You could transfer these distributions to a charitable organization, thereby reducing or eliminating the income tax you would otherwise pay.

Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, if you are 701/2 or older, you can transfer the minimum distribution from an IRA or Rollover IRA directly to a qualified charitable organization (excluding charitable trusts, donor advised funds and supporting organizations).

Such transfers are limited to $100,000 in 2007, and must be completed by December 31, 2007. Plus, if your spouse is 70 1/2 or older and has an IRA, he or she can also give up to $100,000 this year. You will not have to include the amount transferred as taxable income, nor will you be able to take a charitable deduction. But your benefits are twofold. You avoid paying income tax on the minimum distributions, and you witness the benefits of your generosity.

The gift of an IRA or other retirement account made after your lifetime can be the most tax-effective way to benefit us, resulting in the least impact on the shares of your individual heirs. That’s because such accounts are often exposed to income and estate taxes at a combined marginal rate of as much as 65 percent.

Donating Retirement Plan Benefits Generally those younger than 701/2 are subject to income tax on withdrawals taken from the account during their lifetime. If you decide to make a gift of the withdrawn amount, you are eligible for a charitable deduction if you itemize (subject to the 50 percent of adjusted gross income limitation). To make a gift at death, simply name the Northwest Minnesota Foundation or one of our funds on the plan’s beneficiary designation form.

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Funds in Action Fertile Area Armed Forces Veterans Fund In April 2006, a group of committed citizens in Fertile, Minnesota, embarked upon a project to raise funds to build a Veterans Memorial. Eric Bergeson, Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s board chair, who owns and operates Bergeson Nursery in Fertile is a lifelong resident.

"Thanks to dozens of donors large and small, our dream of finally building a memorial to honor Fertile's veterans is coming to fruition," Bergeson said.

The Fertile Veterans Memorial is now taking shape, at least on paper. Before the snow flies, part of the memorial will be set in concrete.

The Memorial Committee has released sketches of the design for the Memorial Plaza at the corner of Mill Street and Washington Avenue. A sign, painted by Marilyn Ness, has been placed at the site. FertileBeltrami graduate Troy Erickson, now an engineer in Fargo, submitted the design, which includes plantings, lighting, stone work, benches and sculpture.

memorials and a donors’ gazebo.“The conflict memorials will start with the Civil War but we’re not certain how many will be put in,” he said.“The memorial park will commemorate all veterans from the Fertile area, in peacetime or war.”

The cost of the memorial will be around $100,000.

“The first donation of $1,765 was made anonymously,” Thorson said. To date, close to $90,000 has been raised, with a 10% contribution going into an endowment account for a lasting legacy of support.

Working to raise funds Fundraising efforts have been ongoing. Last summer, proceeds from the concession stand at the district Legion baseball game went to the memorial fund. At the Polk County Fair, the memorial committee had a booth where people could make donations and/or buy chances on three items. A rifle and scope were won by Darlene Solie and the fishing spear was won

by Orville Lee. Verda Carlson won a beautiful handmade quilt, which featured service photos of World War II veterans who Carole Larson interviewed for the Veterans History Project.

Perhaps it was coincidence or, maybe serendipity that the quilt went to Carlson. On it, she is pictured with her husband and daughter and the photo holds special meeting for her.

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held this fall.“Hopefully, before freeze-up some of the groundwork will be done,” said Wayne Thorson, one of the committee members.

Memorial Plaza Keith Bolstad, advisory committee chairman, said the four major features will be an entrance memorial; a killed-inaction, prisoner-of-war/missingin-action memorial; conflict

Shown from left are Vets Memorial Committee member Wayne Thorson; Fertile Mayor, Brian Nephew; and, Memorial Committee member Keith Bolstad signing the Veterans Proclamation.

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Conrad Carlson and Verda Wettlaufer were married November 27, 1942. One week later he began training in the Army Air Corps. They spent a

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Funds in Action week together before being shipped overseas. Their daughter, Barbara, was born Dec. 17, 1944 in a hospital in Madison, S.D. Her father, a first lieutenant, was a navigator of a B-24 bomber with the Second Squadron, 22nd Bomb Group, Fifth Air Force, based on Leyte Island.

It was three weeks before he learned he was a father.

Barbara was six months old to the day when Conrad come home on furlough and saw his daughter for the first time.“She was scared of him at first,” Verda recalled.

“Daddy was a stranger.”

After he was discharged, the Carlsons had three more children. Dr. Barbara (Ted) Schmeckpeper now lives in Columbia, Md.; Mary Ann Hanna in Denton, Texas; Bruce (Susan) in Maple Grove and Paul in Fargo.

The quilt is a particularly poignant memento for Verda because Conrad Carlson died February 14, 2005.

Sixty years later, when the money is raised, the memorial will become a reality.

Auction fund raiser An auction to raise funds for the Veterans Memorial was held September 1st at the Fertile fairgrounds in conjunction with a classic car show. One of the items, which sold for $325, was a photo taken on January 2, 1966 of Green Bay Packers players after winning the National Football League championship. Three of the mudspattered victors – Paul Hornung, Jerry Kramer and Fuzzy Thurston – were photographed as they left the field. The Mud Bowl autographed photo, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, was donated by Alden ‘Webby’ Webster of Osseo.

The highest selling item at the auction was a patchwork appliqué quilt, which brought $700. It was made by Laura Pierson of Fertile and took exactly one year to complete.

About $6,000 was raised at the auction.

Sixty years later

“I knew almost all of the folks on it. A couple of those fellows The quilt, a year-long project made by Laura Pierson, was auctioned for $700. have passed on,” said Earlin Organizations, businesses Bennes, who saw the quilt for and individuals may contribute to this wonderful project the first time when it was on display at the fair. that honors our veterans in the region. The enclosed He pointed to a picture of a square-jawed young envelope may be used. Checks made payable to soldier with a wide grin.“That’s me,” Bennes told his Fertile Veterans Memorial, Northwest Minnesota daughters Diane Erikson of Hinkley and Amy Van Den Foundation (NMF), may also be sent to P. O. Box 527, Einde of Halstad. Bennes served in the Army in Fertile, MN 56540.

North Africa and Italy.

He said he is pleased a Veterans Memorial will finally be built in Fertile. As early as 1946, ideas were being discussed for such a veterans memorial in Fertile.

Thanks to the Fertile Journal for contributing to this article and for the photos.

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Making a Difference 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, who say “yes” when asked to share of themselves and their resources. The award is presented in recognition of current gifts, planned gifts or will bequests of $100,000 or more made in direct support of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation or any of its component funds.

In 2007, a scholarship fund was established with a gift of $100,000 to honor the life of Dorrance H. Johnston. As a part of the Warroad Area Community Fund, it is the 14th scholarship or education-related fund that is supporting students in the Warroad area. This represents the 17th Circle of Vision award.

Dorrance H. Johnston, a 1926 graduate of Warroad High School, attended the University of Minnesota and earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering in 1931. He graduated in the midst of the Depression and was unable to obtain work in his field.

Dorrance returned to Warroad and worked as a commercial fisherman and mink rancher. He used the knowledge he attained in engineering throughout his personal and professional life.

The scholarship fund honors Dorrance's life, his passion for engineering, and the desire to help other engineering students attain their goals.

Honorees: Anonymous H.C.”Bill” Baer, Jr. and Jessie Baer Frances Drivold Employees of Team Industries-Team Foundation Lyle H. Engelstad Robert F. and Marian Foley Gaylord Gunderson Estate Helleckson Family/Courage Center North Mark and Peg Hewitt Sam and Peg Johnson Leonard J. and Rosemond Kucera Arnold F. Lund, Sr. Eldor and Stella Omdahl 20

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians Roseau Hospital and Homes Elsie Semrau Ole and Ruth Tweet

Circle of Vision Leadership Society William S. and Margaret W. Marvin have become the second benefactors to reach the $1 million mark in donations to the foundation or one of its components. To recognize this contribution, Bill and Margaret are included as members of the Circle of Vision Leadership Society. Sadly, Margaret passed away at the age of 89 this past winter.

Bill is in Warroad, surrounded by his large and loving family.

The original sculpture award representing this gift will be displayed in Warroad at the William S. Marvin Training and Visitor Center.

The Marvin’s recent gift to establish the Warroad Swim Program Fund supports programs, projects and activities associated with or supplementing the Warroad Public Schools swim program or the Warroad Outstanding Warriors Swim Club. Due to funding cuts to education, the swim program was in jeopardy. The Marvins felt it was imperative to fully fund the swim program to provide Warroad with instructors and coaches, along with the resources needed to help it thrive.

The generosity that inspired these gifts is a tremendous contribution to the Quality of Place in the region. The foundation’s success is a result of philanthropic endeavors and its future progress will brighten the future for all of us.

Arnold F. Lund Sr. The past year was saddened by the loss of Arnold Lund, our first Circle of Vision Leadership Society recipient. Arnold was a long time partner and generously gave back to his Baudette community, especially in the area of business development and for the humane society. Arnold has generously supported the development of the Baudette community, the Lake of the Woods Industrial Development Corporation and the Lake of the Woods Humane Society.

NMF greatly appreciates each gift to the foundation and its family of funds. Giving at this level is truly transforming communities and making a difference in northwest Minnesota.

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Giving Through Your Will Accumulation of assets throughout life takes a lot of work. If you do not perform the simple task of having a valid will or trust at your death, the state in which you reside will distribute those assets you worked so hard to acquire according to state law.

When you create a will, however, you have the ability to determine how your assets are distributed at your death to the individuals and charitable organizations of your choice.

And, including a bequest in your will to your favorite charitable organization may be the best way to make a meaningful gift and save specific assets, such as property, securities or real estate, in case you or your family members need them in the future.

Advantages of Charitable Bequests Easy. Making a bequest is as simple as placing a sentence or two into your will: “I give $10,000 to [name of charitable organization].”

Revocable. Wills are not written in stone and can be changed at any time. Because relationships and circumstances evolve over time, your will should naturally do the same. With a bequest, you are not actually making a gift until your death. Until then, you are free to alter your plans, eliminating the worry that you must make a final commitment that you might later regret.

Tax-wise. Aside from the happiness achieved by leaving meaningful gifts to others, making a bequest to a charitable organization has valuable tax benefits. Your estate is entitled to an unlimited estate tax charitable deduction for bequests to qualified charitable organizations.

Every year Northwest Minnesota Foundation receives bequests from the estates of deceased friends. These gifts make a tremendous difference and we count on such gifts as we move into the future.

When you revise or create your will for the first time, we hope you will include Northwest Minnesota Foundation and its family of funds. Your estate gift will help us serve the next generation.

Types of Bequests As you consider an estate gift to any of our funds, it may be useful to know some of the bequest options you have. For example, you can make your bequest as an unrestricted gift.

This permits NMF to use your bequest where it is needed most.

A second type of bequest is designated or restricted to a 21

specific purpose. For example, a gift may be earmarked for a program you feel strongly about or for capital improvements.

You could even designate a bequest to establish an endowment.

A third kind would be a combination of the first two. That is, part of the bequest might be used as the board sees fit and the restricted part for the predetermined purpose.

Methods for Making Bequests Once you've decided on the kind of bequest, you must determine how the bequest will be identified. You have at least three options.

First, you can specify an amount or item. For example, you could bequeath a vacation home to an NMF fund or certain securities or a set amount of money.

Second, you can name an NMF fund to receive a percentage of the residue of your estate -- the amount that is left after the bills and specific bequests have been made.

Finally, you could name an NMF fund as a contingent beneficiary to receive that part of your estate that would have passed to another person had he or she been living.

For example, a will can indicate that everything is to go to your spouse unless your spouse predeceases you — in which case the assets, or part of them, could be assigned to NMF. It is easy to understand why many individuals consider a charitable bequest the perfect way to make a gift. Without parting with any of your assets today, you can make provisions that will help your family and your favorite charitable organizations in the future. You will be leaving a legacy, while also having the satisfaction of knowing that your philanthropic dreams and goals will be met after you are gone.

As you think through your estate giving plans, you may want to talk with Ritchie Houge, vice president for philanthropic services. He has worked with many people concerning their bequest plans and can explain the giving options you have.

He will also tell you whether NMF will have trouble honoring any restricted bequest you may envision.

In addition, Houge will supply you with the correct legal name of your chosen fund, as well as suggested wording for the various bequest types and methods mentioned above.

All of this will assist your attorney when you meet with him or her to discuss and finalize your will.

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Gift Annuities – Leave a Legacy Give and You Shall Receive…Yes, that is the way it works with a Northwest Minnesota Foundation gift annuity. You not only receive the satisfaction of helping to further the mission of the foundation or one of its component funds, you receive annuity payments for the rest of your life.

A gift annuity is an agreement, like a contract, between a donor and a charitable organization. By donating through a gift annuity, you can contract for fixed payments for yourself, or yourself and another individual if you choose, and also make a gift to a charitable organization of your choosing.

For example: John and Mary Jones are in their late 70s. They give $10,000 to a fund of their choice for a two-life gift annuity.

Assuming a gift annuity rate of 6.7 percent, they will receive $670 every year for the rest of their lives. Even after one of them dies, the remaining spouse will continue to receive the payments. On top of this, the Joneses will receive a charitable income tax deduction for approximately $4,087, and a substantial portion of their payments will be tax-free.

Why does NMF offer gift annuities? Many of our friends want to give more to the funds at NMF, but live on fixed incomes and can't afford to donate income-producing assets. With our gift annuity program, they can make a significant gift and still retain lifetime payments. In some cases, they can even increase their annual cash flow.

Example: Wilma Williams is 80 years old and has common stock in a company that pays her a dividend of 2 percent per year. This means that $10,000 worth of stock provides Wilma with a quarterly check of only $50. Wilma can transfer this stock to an NMF fund for a charitable gift annuity. Assuming a gift annuity rate of 8 percent, she could receive $200 each quarter or $800 for the year. And her payments are secured by all the assets of NMF! Other Possible Uses One of your financial and estate planning objectives may be the supplemental support of a person other than younger, direct heirs—possibly an older sibling, a dependent parent, a friend or a former employee.

If your desire to help that person does not extend to his or her heirs, who could be the major beneficiaries of your lump-sum gift, a one-life charitable gift annuity agreement may be a solution for you.

It can be set up so that someone else besides you receives the annuity payments. The age of the person receiving the annuity payments, rather than the age of the donor,

determines the annuity rate and other results. The present value of the charitable gift portion is an income tax deduction for the donor(s). The actuarial value of the income interest is a taxable gift to the individual.

As a present interest, however, it qualifies for the annual gift tax exclusion of $12,000 ($24,000 if spouses make the gift together). Other potential advantages include the reduction of the donor’s taxable estate by the amount used for the annuity contract.

If the recipient outlives the donor, the income is continued, and there is no need to establish a trust and pay for its management. Somewhat younger donors find that deferred charitable gift annuity contracts combine philanthropy with improved retirement funds.

Many tax law changes have limited the amount of pretax earned income that can be sheltered from tax and invested for later financial security. For some, Individual Retirement Accounts are no longer deductible. Others with qualified salary reduction plans may find that their annual contributions are limited by nondiscrimination rules.

A retirement income plan can be enhanced through a series of deferred charitable gift annuity contracts, using excess discretionary income to fund the annuity each year leading to retirement (when the payments are scheduled to begin). Advantages to this type of arrangement include the following: • Partial tax deduction for each amount transferred.

• Continuation of the process beyond the age of 70 1/2 when qualified plans normally must start payments.

• Use of any source of funds, not just earned income as required by qualified pension plans.

• No limitation on the amount used.

Fixed payments, income tax deduction for itemizers, partial bypass of capital gains tax, possible reduction of estate taxes — these and other benefits make a gift annuity a prudent option for many of our older friends. In fact, we find that some of our donors obtain additional annuities as they get older because of the higher payment rates.

Would you like to learn more about our gift annuity program? Ritchie Houge, our vice president for philanthropic services, can provide a tailor-made illustration showing you exactly how a gift annuity can work for you. Visit our planned giving guide at www.nwmf.org for more information.

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Northwest Minnesota Foundation – www.nwmf.org CONTACT US: 218-759-2057 – 800-659-7859 – FAX 218-759-2328 – nwmf@nwmf.org

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