Ripples of Progress, Waves of Change
Dear Friends and Partners,
As I reflect on 2024, I’m filled with gratitude and optimism for all we’ve achieved together at West Central Initiative. This year has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we work boldly to strengthen our communities and shape a brighter future for our region.
Our Rural Democracy program has continued to inspire and empower neighbors across the region to step into leadership roles in their communities. By equipping individuals—especially those from historically underrepresented groups—to engage in local government, nonprofits, and civic life, we’re nurturing a new generation of leaders who reflect the diverse voices and needs of our towns, counties, and White Earth Nation.
Thank you for standing with us as we build a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient region. Together, we can continue turning bold ideas into transformative action.
This year, we also doubled down on our Climate Resilience efforts, recognizing that the health of our environment is intricately tied to the well-being of our communities. From advancing regional planning strategies that prioritize sustainability to supporting local food systems and regenerative agriculture, we’re actively working to prepare our region for the challenges of tomorrow while helping to ensure a thriving future for generations to come.
Our Live Wide Open campaign, relaunched in March, continues to inspire a sense of belonging by celebrating the fascinating individuals who make our region unique. This storytelling movement has reached almost 130,000 people each month, fostering connections that make our region a place where everyone feels they belong.
In June, our 17 Rooms event brought 175 community leaders together to explore actionable steps toward the Sustainable Development Goals. This dynamic gathering—the largest of its kind hosted by a community foundation—focused on tangible outcomes in areas such as climate action, early childhood education, and equitable economic development.
Last year, we launched the Start a Ripple campaign, inspiring action through giving, volunteering, and advocacy. In 2024, the campaign came to life with events such as The Longest Table, where neighbors from across the region gathered to share a meal and meaningful conversations about building stronger, more connected communities. Together, these ripples of connection are growing into waves of lasting change.
Thank you for standing with us as we build a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient region. Together, we can continue turning bold ideas into transformative action.
With gratitude and hope,
-Anna Wasescha, President
Unlock the Story
Watch an exclusive video on West Central Initiative’s ripples of good.
With the Sustainable Development Goals as our north star, we’re a visionary, convener, and catalyst for stronger communities and a more vibrant region. By harnessing the power of collective action—nonprofits, businesses, community groups, government, and individuals—we empower big dreams and bold actions to help bring prosperity to our people, communities, region, and planet.
Climate Resilience
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Local Action: Global Goals 
Our recent 17 Rooms event, held in June at the University of Minnesota Morris, brought together passionate individuals from across the region, all united by a shared vision of creating meaningful change.
The energy in the room was palpable as participants collaborated on bold ideas to address challenges and opportunities connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together, we proved that when people come together with purpose, great things can happen.
With 175 participants, it was the largest stand-alone 17 Rooms gathering globally to date.
In 17 breakout rooms, each dedicated to a specific SDG, we engaged in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities in our communities. From climate resilience and sustainable agriculture to creating more inclusive spaces, the conversations were dynamic and inspiring.
“Perhaps the most exciting part was seeing actionable ideas emerge from each group,” said Sarah Casey, Director of Strategic Communications. “These weren’t just lofty concepts—they were real, tangible steps we can take to move the needle on critical issues. From strategies to support local initiatives to plans for stronger community engagement, the impact of this work will be felt far beyond the event itself.”
We’re so grateful to everyone who participated and contributed their energy, creativity, and hope. Their commitment to building a brighter future is what makes events like 17 Rooms so impactful. “As we move forward, we’re excited to turn these ideas into action and can’t wait to see the ripple effects of this incredible gathering,” said Sarah.
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Climate Action Plan By 2050, average annual temperatures in our region will be 4 to 5 degrees warmer.
Since Minnesota started recording temperatures in 1895, eight of the twelve warmest years have occurred after 1990.
We created the region’s first Climate Action Plan to predict how this change will affect the region and outline actions to reduce climate impacts and prepare for future changes.
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Sustainable Communities Network 
The Sustainable Communities Network, launched in 2024, unites regional stakeholders, community leaders, sustainability enthusiasts, and West Central Initiative team members to advance climate action. Meeting monthly, the group champions success stories shares ideas, and tracks progress. “This group is about building relationships and empowering communities and individuals to take action on climate solutions that matter locally,” said Cedar Walters, Director of Climate and Sustainability Programs. Covering topics such as electric-vehicle charging, organics recycling, and climate projections, the network drives meaningful progress across sectors.
Watch a video on why we activate and align work around climate change.
Rural Democracy
In Minnesota, on average, 1 in 21 individuals need to serve in positional leadership (local government or nonprofit) in their lifetime. Demand is higher in west central Minnesota, reaching 1 in 9 individuals in Wilkin and Stevens Counties, 1 in 8 in Traverse County, and 1 in 7 in Grant County—classifying almost half of our region as “leadership distressed.”
We aim to strengthen rural democracy by helping residents meet these demands through our Rural Democracy program.
“We strive to eliminate barriers to civic participation and leadership,” said Rural Initiatives Strategist Celeste Koppe. “Through technical training and relationship building, we hold nonpartisan space for individuals to better understand and employ democratic processes to create healthier communities.”
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Fostering Leadership in West Central Minnesota 
Our Rural Advocacy and Public Leadership Program is shaping the next generation of leaders across our region. Designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge, the program offers a practical, hands-on approach to public leadership, focusing on advocacy, community engagement, and strategies for effective change-making in rural areas.
Professor Adrienne Falcón, Co-director of Metro State University’s Master of Advocacy and Public Leadership, and local scholar and artist Kandace Creel Falcón created the program to go beyond theory to offer real-world insights. West Central Initiative’s Rural Initiatives Strategist Celeste Koppe works alongside Falcón and Falcón to guide participants through the complexities of leadership and advocacy. “This program is about empowering people to lead in ways that are authentic and effective,” Celeste explains. “We focus on helping participants find their voice and build the tools they need to create meaningful change.”
In spring 2024, 18 rural leaders participated in the program’s first cohort, engaging in interactive workshops and collaborative discussions. These sessions built their confidence to tackle the unique challenges facing rural communities. The program prioritizes inclusivity, fostering a diverse group of leaders who bring a range of perspectives and experiences to the table.
The team’s expertise and passion for rural advocacy helps ensure that participants leave with a deep understanding of how to navigate public leadership while remaining true to their values. “It’s inspiring to see the growth and determination of each participant,” Celeste shares. “They’re not just learning—they’re preparing to lead by implementing action projects as part of the experience.”
By empowering individuals to step up and take action, the Rural Advocacy and Public Leadership Program is strengthening communities and building a brighter future for our region.
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Rural Advocacy and Public Leadership Program 
The Rural Advocacy and Public Leadership Program is our free six-month leadership and advocacy program for individuals interested in strengthening democracy and promoting good governance in their rural community. Participants engage in discussions, learning from each other, and develop a local “hands-on” project to address an issue in their community. -
Lead Local 
Mayors are at the heart of local democracy. Through the Lead Local Mayors Network, we’re convening and building relationships among the 82 mayors in west central Minnesota, so they can share ideas and encourage their constituents to get involved in public service. We invite all mayors in west central Minnesota to participate in our quarterly meetings. -
Run4Rural 
Run4Rural is our 1 ½ day public leadership training program designed for people interested in growing and strengthening their local communities through elected office and other forms of public leadership. This nonpartisan training is useful for existing and emerging rural leaders and people active in their community whether or not they have decided to run for office. -
Going Local 
Going Local is our free rural democracy workshop. At the Going Local workshops, we share food and stories, learn about some of the unique challenges rural communities face, and explore what we can do together to make our communities stronger and healthier. -
Rural Democracy Program Progress Since the launch of the Rural Democracy program two years ago:
- 300+ attended events to strengthen democracy.
- 100+ participated in community events on election law, clean energy, civic leadership, and bridging divides.
- 55 attended Run4Rural trainings, and 10 participants ran for office.
- 12 New Americans joined the pilot Intro to Civics program.
- 80+ attended five Going Local Workshops across four counties.
- 77% of training participants are women.
- 15 mayors explored collaboration, including a solar panel initiative for municipal buildings.
Watch a video spotlighting our Rural Democracy program.
Rural Belonging
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Three Years of Welcoming Week Events We’re celebrating 3 years of Welcoming Events. 2024 was our biggest Welcoming Week ever with more than 30 events held across 14 communities. Since 2022, we’ve leveraged more than $68,000 in sponsorship dollars to support more than 100 community events around the region as part of the national Welcoming Week movement.
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Welcoming Week: Uniting Neighbors and Building Welcoming and Inclusive Places 
In September, our region came alive with the vibrant energy of Welcoming Week 2024.
From Mexican folk dancers lighting up Greater Moorhead Days to Aztec performers sharing traditional rhythms in Elbow Lake, the region embraced a celebration of diversity and belonging. We sponsored more than 30 events across 14 communities that demonstrated the shared values that make our region feel like home for everyone.
While the numbers—part of a global movement featuring 2,006 events in eight countries—are impressive, the stories behind them are even more meaningful. “Welcoming Week is about celebrating in ways that resonate with each community,” said Rick Schara, West Central Initiative’s Live Wide Open advocate. Whether through sharing heritage dishes or connecting new residents with local emergency services, the events emphasized unity and inclusion. “Food, in particular, has been a powerful connector,” Rick added, as communities showcased their rich culinary traditions.
For West Central Initiative, the impact goes beyond the week itself. “We reflect on the stories, connections, and lessons learned to prepare for next year,” said Rick. “Welcoming Week helps communities embrace change while fostering stronger bonds.”
As part of our Rural Belonging efforts, including the Live Wide Open campaign, these celebrations continue to inspire inclusivity year-round.
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Live Wide Open: The Power of Human Connection in our Local Communities 
In an era where loneliness, disconnection, and distrust can feel overwhelming, Live Wide Open is on a mission to inspire a sense of belonging among all people in west central Minnesota through showcasing the fascinating and diverse people across our region. Join us to explore the power of human connection in our local communities.
Watch a video on the impact of our Rural Belonging Program
The Longest Table, held in August 2024, united regional residents for a shared meal celebrating community and generosity. It capped months of regional gatherings and highlighted the Start a Ripple campaign’s message of creating impact through small acts of giving.
On a warm evening in August 2024, West Central Initiative’s The Longest Table brought together people from across the region to share a meal and celebrate the power of community.
Stretching down the heart of Fergus Falls, along the Otter Tail River, this event symbolized the region’s spirit of togetherness and generosity, with residents from all nine counties and White Earth Nation gathering to share stories, ideas, and a delicious locally sourced meal.
The Longest Table marked the culmination of months of connection-building through events held across the region. In counties such as Otter Tail and Grant, neighbors came together to share ideas and foster a spirit of generosity. These gatherings created opportunities for collaboration and sparked ripples of positive change in local communities. These ripples ultimately converged at The Longest Table, uniting a diverse cross-section of the region in a shared vision for the future.
“The smaller events leading up to The Longest Table were instrumental in creating a sense of anticipation and connection,” said Rebecca Lynn Petersen, Director of Development. “We saw firsthand how small acts of generosity—whether it’s sharing time, ideas, or resources—can spark larger waves of impact. The Longest Table brought those ripples together into one incredible evening.”
“This event wasn’t just about sharing a meal—it was about strengthening the bonds that make our communities resilient,” Rebecca said. “When we come together with open hearts and generous spirits, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.”
This year’s The Longest Table also aligned with West Central Initiative’s Start a Ripple campaign, which encourages residents to invest in their communities through philanthropy, volunteerism, and everyday acts of kindness. By emphasizing that everyone has something to give, the campaign has become a cornerstone of the organization’s mission to inspire belonging and amplify impact across the region.
“The Start a Ripple campaign is all about showing people that their contributions matter,” explained Camille Pearson Walz, Development Officer. “At The Longest Table, we witnessed the power of collective generosity. Every conversation, every smile, and every shared story added to the strength of our community.”
From the farm-fresh produce served at the meal to the local musicians who provided the evening’s soundtrack, The Longest Table showcased the best of what our region has to offer. Volunteers worked tirelessly to create a welcoming atmosphere.
One of the evening’s most moving moments came during a toast honoring the countless ways generosity shapes the region. Participants raised their glasses not only to celebrate the present but to look forward to the future, where the ripples created that evening will grow into waves of lasting change.
As the evening wound down and the sun dipped below the horizon, attendees left The Longest Table inspired and connected, ready to carry the spirit of generosity back to their own neighborhoods. The event served as a powerful reminder that even the smallest acts can start ripples, and when those ripples combine, they can create waves that transform communities.
people from across the region joined us for Start a Ripple events, building connections and inspiring positive change.
Economic Development Expertise
Through our planning work, we partner with regional and local leaders to create vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming communities for all.
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Our Region’s Federally Designated Planning Organization As the federally designated planning organization for the region through the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), we create a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the Region IV Economic Development District of Minnesota every five years. The current plan (2022-2026) primarily focuses on growing the regional population and workforce, increasing wages, improving child care capacity and availability, increasing housing affordability and availability, increasing access to broadband, and examining the sustainability of infrastructure.
With our help, local communities have received more than $8.23 million in federal grants for roads, utilities, and wastewater treatment to support industrial growth since 1996.
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Our Loan Program Start-ups and businesses looking to expand can tap into West Central Initiative’s loan program when they have difficulty accessing bank financing. As a “gap lender,” we can supplement or complement conventional or bank financing to help the financing package succeed.
In 2024, 15 regional business owners have collectively secured more than $1 million from our lending program to support the launch and expansion of their businesses. We have approximately 170 active loans to small businesses.
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Our Planning Services Comprehensive development planning, climate resiliency planning, pandemic response and recovery planning
• Resource and grant navigation and writing for community and economic development projects
• Small business development support
• Sustainable food and agricultural development and planning
• Community engagement and facilitation
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D Mike’s: A Family Dream Revived with Community Support 
With help from West Central Initiative, the Daniels family revived D Mike’s, blending legacy, family, and fresh ideas.
For Mike and Kellie Daniels, owning D Mike’s in Alexandria is more than a business venture—it’s the fulfillment of a long-held dream. After working extensively in the food service industry, including years at D Michael B’s, the couple jumped at the chance to take over the beloved local restaurant when it went up for sale. “This restaurant has always been our calling,” said Mike Daniels. “It’s a dream we’ve nurtured since we started in the industry.”
The process of buying and relaunching the restaurant was not without challenges. When the opportunity arose, the Daniels turned to West Central Initiative for support. Through our lending program, they received financial backing and guidance to bring their vision to life. “Assisting businesses like D Mike’s is core to our mission of fostering economic growth and community vitality,” said Greg Wagner, Director of Business and Economic Development.
The Daniels family renamed the restaurant D Mike’s and embraced the principle, “Legacy Inspired, Community Infused.” While honoring the legacy of D Michael B’s, they added fresh touches, including a private dining space for special events and an expanded catering service. Their daughters are also part of the business, creating a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. “Our family time is here,” said Kellie Daniels. “Involving our kids has made this experience even more special.”
D Mike’s reopened with a mix of old favorites and new menu offerings, including “The Brookie,” a dessert inspired by their youngest daughter. “The community support has been incredible, and their feedback keeps us motivated,” Mike shared.
Thanks to the Daniels’ hard work and West Central Initiative’s support, D Mike’s is thriving. Stop by D Mike’s to experience a story of perseverance, family, and community-driven success.
Early Childhood Initiative
We want children to have the best possible start toward a healthy life of learning, achieving, and succeeding. Community organization is key.
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Early Childhood Initiative Our Early Childhood Initiative is a network of parents, educators, businesses, community leaders, faith leaders, and policymakers joined in a long-term effort to give young children the best possible start toward a healthy life of learning, achieving, and succeeding.
We partner with communities to assess early childhood efforts, identify areas for improvement, and help make them a reality. This initiative includes the Early Childhood Dental Network and Early Childhood Mental Health Network.
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Supporting Early Childhood Care and Education Professionals 
Early childhood care and education professionals play a vital role in our communities, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. “Everyone benefits from child care, even those without young children,” said Marsha Erickson, our Early Childhood Specialist. “A lack of access to child care impacts parents’ ability to work and local economies. Our child care professionals work long hours, earn minimal pay, and deserve our gratitude.”
“Our vision is a region where every child has access to quality care, and every educator feels valued. Investing in child care is investing in our communities’ future,” Marsha said.
Through our Early Childhood Initiative, West Central Initiative supports child care professionals across the region. This initiative addresses workforce shortages, financial challenges, and the growing demand for high-quality, accessible care. By partnering with local organizations, county agencies, and groups such as Child Care Aware and First Children’s Finance, West Central Initiative provides resources and advocates for these essential educators.
“Our Early Childhood Initiative is about strengthening families and communities,” Marsha explained. “Advocating for child care professionals is key—they’re not just caregivers; they’re educators and an extension of our families.”
West Central Initiative’s annual recognition of Provider Appreciation Day highlights these efforts. Celebrated nationally before Mother’s Day, it honors child care professionals with support from local collaboratives and organizations. West Central Initiative also encourages families to show appreciation year-round through gestures such as thank-you notes, small gifts, and actsof kindness.
“Thanking child care professionals doesn’t have to be extravagant,” Marsha said. “It’s about respect and recognizing their vital contributions.”
Beyond appreciation, West Central Initiative advocates for systemic changes to improve funding and training access, ensuring child care professionals can thrive.
“Our vision is a region where every child has access to quality care, and every educator feels valued,” Marsha said. “Investing in child care is investing in our communities’ future.”
Through our Early Childhood Initiative, we call on our region to recognize and support child care professionals, ensuring a stronger future for families, educators, and the region.
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Transformative Tools for Educators With grant support, we provided training for 250 people in Conscious Discipline, with five becoming trainers. This adult-first approach helps individuals understand and manage their own triggers, teaching them to pass this calmness on to the children in their care.
We hosted a two-day Conscious Discipline training for 150 early childhood professionals, with 100 more accessing an e-course. The program provided practical tools to help educators regulate their emotions, model positive behaviors, and foster stronger connections with children. Thanks to grant funding, the training was free and accessible to all.
Transportation Planning
Mapping the Future: Transportation Planning for a Connected Region
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Helping all to drive, bike, walk, and roll around our region safely and efficiently 
Through a contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, West Central Initiative administers a transportation planning program for west central Minnesota. This partnership allows for coordinated, long-range, regional transportation planning. As part of the regional transportation planning process, we oversee studies related to transportation, provide technical assistance
to communities on transportation and active transportation issues, and work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation District 4 and the West Central Minnesota Area Transportation Partnership. -
Community input sparks solutions for Safe Routes to School Plans Safe Routes to School is a national initiative encouraging kids to walk and bike to school, promoting lifelong physical activity. Minnesota supports this effort with funding for plans, infrastructure, and school curriculum. In 2024, West Central Initiative’s Transportation Planning Team completed plans for Alexandria, Osakis, and the Circle of Life Academy in White Earth. They also began plans for Browns Valley and Chokio-Alberta School Districts, hosting kick-off meetings and on-site observations. Each community’s unique history and culture will shape these plans, set to be finalized by spring 2025.
4,400+ kids will benefit from three Safe Routes to School Plans created in 2024.
In 1969, about 50% of children walked or biked to school. Today, fewer than 15% do. Returning to 1969 levels would save 3.2 billion vehicle miles, reduce carbon dioxide by 1.5 million tons, and cut 89,000 tons of other pollutants —equivalent to taking 250,000 cars off the road for a year. We’ve secured more than $15 million for projects that make it easier for people to walk and bike.
Local Foods and Sustainable Agriculture
A thriving local food system empowers farmers, ensures fresh, nutritious food is accessible to all, and builds resilient communities.
To help create a thriving and interconnected food ecosystem, we support regenerative agriculture practices, connect farmers with consumers, facilitate educational opportunities, and advocate for policies that support local food production.
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Growing Grant County: Expanding Food Access and Education With a $374,000 USDA grant, West Central Initiative partnered with local schools and organizations to launch the Growing Grant County project, expanding access to healthy, local food. Students from Ashby Public School and West Central Area Schools gain hands-on experience in growing, processing, and preserving fresh foods using resources such as a mobile processing trailer and freeze dryers. West Central Area Schools’ new greenhouse, with plans for another in Ashby, boosts production. In 2024, the project provided more than 15,000 pounds of produce for Grant County residents.
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West Central Initiative and Rural Voice Spotlight Conservation Agriculture in Detroit Lakes 
West Central Initiative partnered with Rural Voice and MPR’s Kerri Miller to host a lively community event at Bucks Mill Brewing in Detroit Lakes, focusing on conservation agriculture. The event brought together local residents, farmers, and leaders to discuss innovative practices and their impact on regional sustainability. The conversation highlighted the importance of collaboration and community-driven solutions in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing rural Minnesota.
Inspiring Generations of Generosity
Generosity, Community, Family Values
Nick and Katie Ganoe returned to Fergus Falls to raise their family, inspired by the town’s strong sense of community and connection. Through their careers and partnership with West Central Initiative, they actively support early childhood education, equity, and local causes, instilling values of generosity and action in the next generation.
Nick and Katie Ganoe’s story began in Fergus Falls, where they grew up surrounded by a close-knit community.
Though they left for college and careers, the town remained close to their hearts. When it came time to envision a life for their future family, they returned, knowing Fergus Falls was the perfect place to raise their children.
Now parents of two, Nick and Katie are dedicated community members who value generosity and giving back. Their shared commitment to philanthropy has been shaped by their experiences and desire to instill these values in their children.
The Ganoes believe in leading by example, involving their family in meaningful efforts that strengthen their community. Through their work with children and families, they’ve gained insight into the community’s strengths and areas for growth. Katie became involved with Otter Cove in 2021, collaborating with others to help ensure Fergus Falls is a place where every child can thrive.
The Ganoes are deeply committed to local and regional giving. They donate both to and through West Central Initiative, a trusted partner that aligns with their passions for early childhood education, equity, and climate. By working with West Central Initiative, they ensure their contributions have a meaningful and lasting impact.
“We know the people doing the work,” Katie shared. “We see the wide reach and the impact West Central Initiative is making.”
The Ganoes are proud of the positivity in Fergus Falls and feel honored to contribute to its vibrancy. For them, the town’s sense of community and connection makes it a perfect home.
Their story exemplifies how generosity and action can inspire the next generation to strengthen their communities.
Give Beyond Your Lifetime
Planning an estate gift allows you to strategically accomplish both financial and charitable objectives. For many people, these include preserving the family name, honoring loved ones, providing for heirs, minimizing tax burdens, and supporting the community they call home. Bequests to West Central Initiative are exempt from estate taxes.
Establishing a fund at West Central Initiative as part of your estate allows you to:
- Support your favorite nonprofits or choose community grantmaking funds that align with your interests.
- Manage gifts to multiple entities, which you can change at any time cost-free.
- Give almost any kind of asset, from real estate, to stock, to retirement plans and life insurance proceeds.
- Avoid the setup costs and ongoing management of creating your own private foundation.
Thank you, Contributors
We’re deeply grateful to all the individuals and organizations who have supported our mission over the past year. Along with the contributors listed below, we also thank the many others who have given through West Central Initiative by supporting one of our component funds. Your generosity creates a lasting impact on our communities. While we’ve made every effort to include all contributors, please know that we sincerely appreciate every gift.
Jill and Pete Amundson
Dana Anderson
Nance Anders
Polly Anderson
Mark Asleson
Mary Baukal
Sarah and Mick Bauer
Cletus M. Bitzan
Adrienne and Larry Buboltz
Jackie and Mitch Buboltz
Edward Buerkle
Laura Busian Schmidt and Joel Schmidt
Sarah and Andrew Casey
John and Judi Dahlseng
Richard and Cynthia Drevlow
Jim and Anne Eidsvold
Nancy and Dr. Lowell Einerson
Jane and Dr. Gary Fick
Evelyn and Gary Fox
Thomas Frank
Amy Freund and Katherine Mudge
Steven and Karla Fridgen
Ralph Fynboh
Katie and Nick Ganoe
Craig and Gwen Perman Gillespie
Yoke-Sim Gunaratne
Nan Haggerty
Wayne Hurley
Lauryl Ivers
Dr. Erika Johnson
Carol and Lowell Jordahl
Nancy and Steve Kent
Kari and John Kreft
Daniel and Pamela Langseth
Miranda and Matthew Lape
Victor and Ann Lundeen
James and Jennie MacFarlane
John MacFarlane
Elena Machkasova
Catherine McGinnis
Charlotte Moline
Richard and Diane Nelson
David and Mary Nelson
Eric and Becky Newell
Trygve K. Olson
Camille Pearson Walz
Rebecca Petersen and Mark Solie
Jene and Marlys Peterson
Elizabeth Pihlaja and Chris Burns
Ashley Quam
Teresa Rasmusson and Jon Trangsrud
Jenna and Peter Ray
Nadja Reubenova
Chere and Ed Rikimoto
Betsy Roder
Homer and Esther Saetre
Richard and Kathleen “Kitt” Schara
Steve and Shelley Schoeneck
Dave and Denise Schornack
Trina and Derek Starker
Nancy Swenson and Steve Guttormson
Christopher Thanel and Debra Ferguson
Valaurie and Greg Trumm
Dianne Tuff
Samantha VanWechel-Meyer and Derek Meyer
Kelsey Varty
Anna Wasescha and Richard Kagan
Heather Weber
Grace Wright
Children’s Defense Fund
Funders Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities
Granite Partners Foundation
McKnight Foundation
Medica Foundation
Minneapolis Foundation
Otter Tail Corporation Foundation
Otto Bremer Trust
Quality Toyota Foundation
St. Paul and Minnesota Foundation
Sauer Family Foundation
State of Minnesota
Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
University of Minnesota
Veden Trust
Welcoming America
Wells Fargo Foundation
AARP
Rick and Helga Bauerly Fund
Fluegel & Anderson Attorneys at Law
Growth by Design
Kenterprises Consulting
Koschnick Jr. Family Fund
The Middleton Koller Fund
Maplelag, Inc.
Minnesota Humanities Center
MN Farmers Union
Otter Tail Power Company
Park Region Telephone
Pioneer Public Television
City of Alexandria
City of Ashby
City of Barnesville
City of Battle Lake
City of Breckenridge
City of Browns Valley
City of Carlos
City of Chokio
City of Cyrus
City of Dent
City of Detroit Lakes
City of Dilworth
City of Elbow Lake
City of Hawley
City of Herman
City of Hitterdal
City of Hoffman
City of Kensington
City of Long Beach
City of Lowry
City of Millerville
City of Moorhead
City of Morris
City of New York Mills
City of Ottertail
City of Parkers Prairie
City of Pelican Rapids
City of Perham
City of Richville
City of Rothsay
City of Starbuck
City of Villard
City of Vining
City of Westport
City of Wheaton
Becker County
Clay County
Douglas County
Grant County
Otter Tail County
Pope County
Stevens County
Traverse County
Wilkin County
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