COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
“Every day when I come into my office at the Food Shelf, I see this reminder that is posted on my board. I can’t believe I get to do this. I’m thankful for the God-given assignment I’ve been gifted.”
Tammi
Olstad | Food Shelf Director
Meeting the local needs of hunger, affordable quality goods and community building. We envision a connected community creating hope and a quality of life in which all people thrive.
FROM THE DESK OF OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
This year, I was struggling to find a theme for our endeavors until Dana suggested something at our staff meeting: “We get to.” She mentioned using it with her son instead of “I have to... I get to.” As we pondered it further, we found ourselves drawn to the idea. We are deeply grateful for the opportunities we have to make a difference in our community.
“We get to” encapsulates our privilege to serve in various capacities. We get to nourish every family with love, extend meals to children during the summer, collaborate as a community to tackle health, hunger, and housing issues, and offer quality goods at affordable prices. We get to be the catalysts for positive change.
Every month, I encourage our staff to share their “God Moment” — instances where they witnessed God’s hand at work, whether in the mundane details or the hopeful glimmer in the eyes of those we assist. These moments are the heart of our mission; they remind us of the profound purpose we serve.
Our key verse from Isaiah 58:10 resonates deeply with us: “...if any of you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry & satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness & your night will come like the noonday.” It encapsulates our commitment to serve with compassion and dedication, knowing that even in the darkest times, We Get To ... bring light and hope.
Denise Kesanan Executive Director
337
Unique Households served at the Food Shelf in 2023 .
1 in 7
of our neighbors, at some point, will need the services of one of our programs.
175
Children served through Lunch Box Express Summer 2024 program.
Since its establishment in 2009 , RiverWorks has undergone a continuous process of evolution and expansion. From its initial inception, the principle of “Community Helping Community” has remained at the core, stemming from the early days of informational gatherings with enthusiastic members. Over the years, programs and services have adapted, developed, and flourished, all fueled by the enduring support of our community in coming together to assist our neighbors. Below is an overview of our history!
RiverWorks Food Shelf opened its doors. Inaugural Steak Fry Fundraiser took place.
Founder Brian Howe built support for the concept through Riverwood Covenant Church and its members. Becoming a 501(c)3 approved non-profit in June.
The Inaugural Thousand Hearts Serve Day.
RiverWorks Thrift Store opened at the Rockford Mall.
RiverWorks Thrift Store moved to the Greenfield Mall, where it is located today.
The inaugural Crow River Christmas.
RiverWorks Food Shelf was selected to become a Super Shelf.
RiverWorks added Lunch Box Fever (now known as Lunch Box Express) to its umbrella of programs.
Golden Neighbor’s Lunch Club program was added to serve hot meals out of our food truck to our older adult population.
Thousand Hearts 365 was launched from a one-day event to serving all year long.
RiverWorks Thrift Store moved from 4,000 sq ft to a 10.000 sq ft space
Good Eats by RiverWorks Food Truck is purchased with a transportation grant.
Food Shelf t ransitioned to Curbside Service, didn’t miss a single service day due to COVID.
The Food Shelf once again welcomed families inside and other programs back to running at normal and full capacity.
10 Year A nniversary for Thousand Hearts and Thrift Store
CORE VALUES
Service
We believe that people benefit from serving and being served.
People
We tr eat individuals as being worthy of our love, respect, and care.
Relationships
God
We exist to accomplish God’s purposes.
We connect individu als and groups to create purposeful partnerships.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Brian Howe Board Chair
Daryl MacLean Vice-Chair
Mike Dickman Treasurer
Trent Shipley Board Member
Robin LaFond Board Member
FROM THE DESK OF OUR FOUNDER & BOARD CHAIR
As we reflect on the remarkable journey of RiverWorks Community Development, we are filled with gratitude and enthusiasm for what the future holds. Since our inception in March of 2010, RiverWorks has grown from a single program and a small team to a vibrant, multi-program organization dedicated to serving over 400 families in our community.
This past year has been one of significant expansion and success, marked by two major milestones: the growth of our programming and the relocation of our thrift store to a larger space within the same mall. This strategic move has not only allowed us to offer a wider selection of goods but has also driven a remarkable increase in sales.
The new, larger store has become a community hub, providing not only affordable shopping options but also a place where people can connect, share, and support each other.
Our programming has flourished, reaching more individuals and families than ever before. We have introduced new initiatives and expanded existing ones, furthering our mission to empower and uplift. The dedication of our employees, along with the tireless commitment of our volunteers who contributed over 4,500 hours this past year, has been pivotal in our achievements.
As we look to the future, we are inspired by the enduring faithfulness that has guided our path so far. The same faith that propelled us through our founding days continues to fuel our passion for service. Together, we are not just witnessing change; we are driving it.
Thank you for being part of our community and for your continued support of RiverWorks. We hope you find inspiration and joy in the pages of this report as we recount the past year’s achievements and set our sights on future goals.
With warmest regards,
Brian Howe, Founder and Board Chair
RIVERWORKS STAFF
Denise Kesane n Executive Director
Colleen Johnson Director of Retail Operations
Tammi Olstad Food Shelf Director
Susie Jo Long Financial Manager
Dana Meyhoff
Annette Tryon
Michelle Anderson
Laura Smith
Paula Behne
Ruth Modrow Judy Maas
Tracey VanLith
Bethany VanLith
Grace Clouse
Kaylee Schueble
Cindy Voelker
Will Wefel
Patty Weber
Katelyn Weber
Every penny earned from merchandise sales directly benefits our community through RiverWorks programming. Whether you contribute items to our store or make purchases, you’re making a tangible impact on our local area!
As 2023 began, we were unaware of what lay ahead. A national chain expressed interest in our location, prompting our landlords to transform the vacated Ace space into our new thrift store. While relocating the entire thrift store presented various challenges, the move proved to be a game changer, not only for the thrift store itself but also for RiverWorks as an organization.
We extend heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers whose dedication facilitated the swift and seamless relocation and set-up of the store. A special thank you goes out to the community members who continuously support us through donations, shopping, and volunteering efforts. Your support is invaluable to us.
Our doors opened to the community in 2010. Since then we have served as a safety net of supplemental food and essentials to our neighbors experiencing food insecurity, 40% of those we served were children. In 2019 we became a certified SuperShelf. Through our SuperShelf transformation, we have created a welcoming place for our community to access appealing, healthy food.
Expanding Our Impact:
Maple Hill Estates Food Distribution Update
In 2020, we launched the Tuesday Food Drop at Maple Hill Estates in Corcoran, providing fresh produce and perishables to families in need. Since then, we’ve carefully tracked our weekly distributions to monitor the number of individuals served. In 2024, we reached a significant milestone—serving 25 households, compared to 13 households previously.
As we cont inue to expand our ministry at Maple Hill Estates, we trust in God’s guidance to meet the growing needs of those we serve.
It is th rough the countless volunteer hours and food and monetary donations that the RiverWorks Food Shelf continues to reach the heart of homes in our community – the family table.
350 Unique Families Served 1,750 Family Visits
193,500 pounds of food distributed
SUMMER 2024
Lunch Box Express is an essential program that addresses one of the greatest needs in our community by nourishing the minds and bodies of our most valuable assets—our children.
Lu nch Box Express served: 175 Total – 111 kids served in Rockford/Greenfield and 64 kids served in Maple Hill Estates. We added an additional route this year to accommodate all of our kids. Over 14,300 pounds of food was distributed over the 8 weeks of the program! Throughout the 8 weeks, we had 18 unique volunteers. Each week, alongside our Volunteer Leads, Donna and Mar, we had 2-3 food packers and 6-7 drivers, many of whom served every week. This program wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteers who were eager to serve and enjoyed being a part of the Lunch Box Express program! We are thankful for Rockford High School and their partnership in supplying the commercial kitchen facilities.
“Our family really appreciates the extra support from RiverWorks to feed our kids in the summer. It is a good variety every week – fresh produce, items to make meals and yummy snacks. Thank you!”
175 Children
A 32% increase fro m the previous year
66 Households
41 households in Rockford/Greenfield
25 households in Maple Hills Estates
Total amount of foo d distributed throughout 8-weeks 14,300 Pounds
In 2020, we received a grant aimed at expanding our community initiatives through the acquisition of a food truck.
2023 proved to be a challenging period. Despite Dana’s successes at scheduling the truck for various events, unforeseen maintenance issues demanded more attention than anticipated. Nevertheless, the truck left a lasting impression wherever it went, leading to swift rebooking’s for summer 2024. It made appearances at graduation parties, customer appreciation events, local festivals, and the music in the park in Buffalo. Additionally, it was utilized by other local organizations for fundraising purposes and participated in numerous church and nonprofit events.
The Food Truck team has dedicated immense effort to cultivating a loyal following. Both staff and volunteers are eager to serve the community, driven by a shared passion. Our aim for consistency in our culinary offerings is proving successful. Our signature item, Street Corn Nachos, have become a sensation due to their irresistible appeal and great taste.
We extend heartfelt thanks to our volunteers and deep appreciation to our staff whose dedication ensures the success of every event.
Good Eats by RiverWorks offers a diverse menu catering to specific event requirements. From burgers and hot dogs to pasta, hot sandwiches, appetizers, and breakfast items, we provide a wide range of delicious options to suit every occasion!
Since its inception in 2011, Crow River Christmas has become a cherished tradition, drawing various forms of community engagement. Over the years, this event has evolved to encompass a range of holiday activities culminating in the official tree lighting ceremony and fireworks, uniting people throughout the community.
The 2023 Crow River Christmas exceeded all expectations! Blessed with ideal winter weather, the event radiated the festive spirit of the holiday season. Each venue played its part seamlessly, starting with the Jolly Jingle Jog, which collected 873 pounds of food for the Food Shelf—the largest Jog donation ever! The day ended with approximately 2,000 attendees gathering in the park to enjoy food, admire 100 illuminated trees, cozy up by fires, sing carols, and partake in horse and wagon rides, all leading up to a breathtaking fireworks display. We extend our gratitude to our sponsors and the City of Rockford for their contributions in making this magical evening in the park possible.
100 trees
sponsored by businesses and individuals, dedicated as greetings or in memory of loved ones
2,000 attendees
an incredible growth from just 150 when we started in 2011
Thousand Hearts Serve Day shares love and faith by gathering and serving in our communities to address health, habitation, and hunger. Established in 2012, Thousand Hearts Serve Day has been a cornerstone for community development work. In response to the community’s desire to give back year-round, Thousand Hearts 365 was created. 350 community members volunteered for and were impacted by the 12th Annual Thousand Hearts Serve Day. A huge thank you to each one!
The 2024 Thousand Hearts Steering Committee consisted of eight dedicated members: Annette Tryon, Nikki Nute, Doug White, Marsha White, Chuck Tryon, Craig Boysen, Maggie Franklin, intern, and LouAnn Eberspacher, whose enduring help we deeply appreciate. Eleven Project Managers oversaw all the projects.
A significant project for Thousand Hearts 365 in 2024 was managing the re-painting of the Rockford Mural at Bridge and Mechanic Streets in Rockford. Twelve volunteers of all ages, led by a professional mural artist, collaborated to paint. This project was made possible by donations from the Delano Youth Hockey Association, Hanover Athletic Association, and the City of Rockford. Additionally, Thousand Hearts 365 continued in its 11th year with Maple Hill Estates Coffee and Donuts every Wednesday
Yard clean up, free A1c testing, haircuts, free document shredding, free tech recycling, Elmwood Cemetery clean up, flowerpots planted, and projects for our area Rockford Schools, and churches. Projects Completed 19
Project Give Back
Raised $1,700 for Wright Country Frontline Outreach, a Non-Profit Organization consisting of First Responders within Wright County.
At RiverWorks we do a wide variety of work, meaning we have volunteer options in different areas! We rely on the support of volunteers who come alongside us and join us in the community helping the community.
Thank you to every volunteer who gave their time in 2023. You gave over 4,500 hours and helped us achieve one of our core values, Service - We believe that people benefit from serving and being served.
Over 4,500 Hours
Volunteers gave their time to help us achieve one of our core values - Service.
Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So, use your gift well. If you have the gift of speaking, preach God’s message. If you have the gift of helping others, do it with the strength that God supplies.
1 Peter 4:10-11
Volunteer of the Year - Rich VanBergen Serves both at the Food Shelf and Thrift Store.
FROM THE DESK OF OUR TREASURER
Over the past year RiverWorks remained on a steady financial course allowing the Community to receive essential services. This was made possible through generous donations totaling $350,000. Sources of this funding included individuals, business, fundraising, civic groups, churches, agency grants, government credits and other gifts. These funds also helped RiverWorks meet the increased demands at the Food Shelf and Lunch Box Express program.
During the year, RiverWorks continued to emphasize strong accounting and financial controls throughout the organization. This included additional bookkeeping support and implementation of a new Payroll system. Monthly Financial reporting was provided to RiverWorks Leadership and outside organizations as needed.
Finally, a huge thank you for all your support which permitted RiverWorks to increase its reach to those most in need in our community.
Mike Dickman Treasurer RiverWorks
HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY
The de mand for support is rising quickly—in 2024, we’ve welcomed a grow ing number of first-time visitors to our food shelf, many of whom are experiencing financial hardship for the first time.
A gif t today means:
• Immediate assistance for those facing hunger and hardship.
• Resources to keep our shelves stocked with nutritious options for all ages.
• Continued outreach and support for new clients stepping through our doors.
Your g enerosity ensures we can meet the needs of our community, bringing relief and hope to those who need it. Together, we can make a real difference, one meal, one person, one family at a time.
Thank you for your c ontinued compassion and support.
Please consider making a gif t today. Donate at riverworksonline.org or scan this QR code.
Every contribution—whether from sponsorships, yearend giving, foundation grants, church, business and organization donations, Hope Circle, or individual one-time gifts—is deeply appreciated. These generous donations sustain our programs, providing hope to families in our community during challenging times.
MATCHING GIFT OPPORTUNITIES
In March, 2024 Star Masonic Lodge No. 62, AF&AM, Close to Home, Riverwood Covenant Church, BANKWEST & Rockford Lions Club combined raised a grand total of $43,674.
New in 2023 was a $3,000 match from Our Father’s Lutheran Church Foundation. They raised $6,115.00 in June 2023 to help fund Lunch Box Express 2023.
OUR 2023 EVENT SPONSORS
Event Sponsor | Genesis Group Homes
Silver Sponsors | BANKWEST, McCormick Construction, West Hennepin Auto & Tire 2023 FOOD SPONSORS
2023 MAILER SPONSORS
Gold Sponsor | Rockford Lions Club
2024 EASTER HAM SPONSORS
Big Bore | Hanover Genesis Solutions
Keller Williams Realty | Trent Shipley Modrow Farmers Insurance Agency Red Vest | Rockford
MORE WAYS TO GIVE
To learn more about these ways to give, visit: riverworksonline.org/donate
MONTHLY GIVING
Becoming a monthly donor is an easy way to make a powerful and long-lasting impact. Your recurring contribution adds up over time and helps provide weeks, months, and years of important assistance to the nearly 1,500 families we support each year through our programs.
DONOR ADVISED FUNDS
HOW IT WORKS
DONATIONS | A donor makes a taxdeductible donation to a public charity that sponsors a donor-advised program INVESTMENTS | The donor may advise the investment allocation of the donated assets, investment growth is tax-free
GRANTS | The donor recommends grants to qualified public charities of his or her choice. Grants are made at the discretion of the sponsoring charity
STOCK GIFTS
Making a stock or real estate gift is an efficient way to meet your charitable giving goals, and maximize tax savings. The appreciation in the stock or real estate is not taxed and you still get a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the stock or real estate.
LEGACY GIVING
Supporters can choose to leave a gift in their will or trust as an important way to have long-term impact, without any upfront cost during their lifetime.
QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION (QCD)
Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows certain IRA holders, who are 72 or older, the opportunity to withdraw $100 to $100,000 annually from their Traditional or Roth IRA and deliver the funds directly to a qualifying charitable organization, this may result in a tax-free distribution that may satisfy the client’s required minimum distribution (RMD.)
WORKPLACE GIVING
Many companies have different opportunities for their employees to make donations to organizations they care about through a workplace giving program. Consult with your HR office to find out if your employer has a matching gift program and what steps are necessary to enroll.
TRIBUTE GIFTS
A gift to RiverWorks in memory or in honor of a friend or loved one is a wonderful way to memorialize a special person in your life while helping sustain our work in the community.