Document

S P E C I A L G I V I N G E D I T I O N

Northwest Minnesota FoundationFamily of Funds

Northwest Minnesota FoundationFamily of Funds

Photo: Monte Draper

N M F R E S O U R C E

1

As a regional community foundation, theNorthwest Minnesota Foundation is committed tomaking 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 shapetheir 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 helpfamilies become involved in philanthropy throughdonor advised funds.

The volunteers who comprise the advisory com-mittees and the donors who generate theseendowments are the power behind philanthropy.Our family of funds would be worth little without thepeople who understand that giving to endowmentfunds is the best investment for the future; theywould struggle to succeed without the volunteeradvisory 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 MinnesotaFoundation, 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.

Mission Statement The Northwest Minnesota Foundation invests

resources, creates opportunities and promotes philanthropy to make the region a better place tolive and work.

Philanthropy 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.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides the structure by which individuals, businesses andorganizations help create the asset base of theircommunity.

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

Introduction

4225 Technology Dr. NWBemidji, MN 56601

218.759.2057800.659.7859

www.nwmf.org

2 0 0 6 S P E C I A L G I V I N G E D I T I O N

Season’s Greetings!Dear Friends:Each year as the changing seasons bring holiday

celebrations and we gather with friends and family,we often think about our blessings and the gifts wegive and receive. At the Northwest MinnesotaFoundation, the same thoughts occur as we thankyou and all the generous people who have con-tributed to our continued success and growth asthe region’s community foundation.

We ask that you will consider a gift to theNorthwest Minnesota Foundation this year.Your gift will touch people’s lives and help to makenorthwest Minnesota an even greater place to live and work.

Impact is tangible and Northwest MinnesotaFoundation has seen superb results again in 2006,our 20th anniversary year. Funding was given to projects that help support our Quality of Placeobjectives. We provided programs and training fornonprofit management, organizational effective-ness, and adult and youth leadership; grants forcommunity planning, for projects serving children,families and seniors, as well as for natural resourcepreservation and promotion; funds for quality care and educational experiences for our youngestcitizens; loans for business expansion and job creation; and microloans and technical assistancethat enabled entrepreneurs to start and expandnew businesses.

Foundation staff provide administrative and invest-ment expertise, along with philanthropic services tonearly 225 community and component funds. Thefoundation’s mission is to promote charitable givingthat increases the capacity of local nonprofitorganizations and adds vitality to our communities.Grants from these funds approached the $500,000mark this year, giving back through activities, pro-grams, and through dozens of scholarships. Thesegrants benefited people in all twelve northwestMinnesota counties.

This important work and its impact, which is essential to the future health and prosperity of ourregion, can only occur with the support of our citi-zens. As you read through this special editionResource newsletter featuring our family of funds,we think you’ll be inspired by the ways your contri-butions make a difference. The information can help you decide what method of giving works for you and your family.

Please use the enclosed envelope to send yourgift today.Your support will help further developassets in our communities and add quality to theplaces where we live and work.

Sincerely,

Diane BlairNMF Board Chair

2


3

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s mission is to promote philanthropy; to be a channel throughwhich individuals and organizations may direct giftsfor community betterment in a way that will providethe greatest lasting benefit. The bedrock of NMF isour donors.

People and organizations turn to the NorthwestMinnesota Foundation to express their concern for the community. They share a belief in the impor-tance of nurturing a culture of caring.

Until 1986, Northwestern Minnesota had been one of the few areas of the state without its owncommunity foundation. The region had missedopportunities to benefit from large charitableendowment gifts or bequests because there was no grantmaking organization in place to receivesuch gifts.

Now in its 20th year, NMF has the assets, skills andstaff to serve the philanthropic needs of the entireregion. Individuals, organizations, agencies and communities have come to rely on the services and financial expertise that only a community foundation can provide.

What is a Community Foundation?The Northwest Minnesota Foundation encourages

donors of modest or ample means to turn their char-itable dreams into realities. We help simplify andexpand charitable giving by pooling funds andresponding to both the needs of the communityand the donor.

Community foundations are the fastest growingsector of organized philanthropy in the UnitedStates. These permanent endowment funds providebenefits in the following four ways:• offering economic and efficient services to donors; • attracting new money into local charitable giving• providing immediate aid to emerging and existing

community needs• serving as agents for positive change in the

community Because a community foundation is not dedicat-

ed to one specific cause, it can aid local charitiesand nonprofit organizations in a variety of areas —from the arts to education, from the environment tohelping the elderly, all contributing to a healthycommunity. A community foundation is designed tocomplement existing individual nonprofit organiza-tions by acting as a bridge between a variety ofinterests and the ongoing needs of the community.

Community Foundation


4

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation has established Community Funds in key areas through-out its region of service. These funds maintain alocal focus and work to address the same needs asthe Northwest Minnesota Foundation itself, but in amanner specific to those communities in which they serve. This method of “helping communitieshelp themselves” increases donor involvement,encourages local participation, and builds onhometown pride. It’s just one more way that theNorthwest Minnesota Foundation works to developour community assets.

The foundation’s Community Funds Program provides aframework for communities in Northwest Minnesota tostart or add to existing community endowment funds andmake grants to improve their communities.School district borders define the community componentfunds and sub-funds.Foundation Community Funds have an independentadvisory committee made up of concerned citizens andcommunity 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 assetsentrusted to us by generations of donors are wisely invested to meet the challenges of contemporary life.

BAGLEY AREA COMMUNITY FUNDSupports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve the quality of life forresidents and/or visitors of the Bagley area

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

Bagley Beautification FundSupport for community improvement projects that help builda positive and inviting attitude in Bagley

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

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

Bagley Area Scholarship Fund Supports area young people in their post secondary education careersBLACKDUCK COMMUNITY FUND Supports the growth of Blackduck and the surrounding area

Blackduck Academic and Character Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Blackduck High SchoolGREENBUSH 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 Greenbush area

Greenbush Education FundSupports activities, projects, or services to benefit the area’sstudents, staff, educational programs and institutions

Keith and Ellen Kapphahn Family Scholarship FundSupports annual scholarships to qualified high school studentsfrom ISD #2683 (Greenbush-Middle River) who are pursuingpost-secondary education.MAHNOMEN AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purposeprojects that enhance or improve the quality of life in theMahnomen area

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

Community Funds


5

Community FundsPARK RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY FUNDSupports charitable and public purpose activities and proj-ects that enhance the quality of life in the Park Rapids area

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

Park Rapids Early Childhood Initiative Fund Supports community projects that benefit children birth – age 5

Heartland Homes Endowment and Project Fund Supports the Heartland Homes group homes for developmentally disabled individuals

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

Kinship of Park Rapids FundProvides financial support for activities, projects, or services fora preventive program for children, by matching them withKinship volunteers for adult friendship and role modeling

Matthew Spangler Hockey FundSupports programs, projects and activities associated with the mission of youth hockey programs in the Park Rapids areaRED LAKE BAND OF CHIPPEWA INDIANS COMMUNITY FUNDSupports charitable and public purpose activities and projects that enhance the quality of life on the Red Lake Reservation

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians Renewal and Recovery FundProvides financial support for programs, projects, and activi-ties which assist the Tribe and others in the recovery processand renewal following the March 21, 2005 tragedy

Youth Initiative Fund Provides financial support for programs and activities servingthe youth of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians

Red Lake Band of Chippewa Education Fund Supports activities, projects, or services designed to enhancethe educational opportunities for members of the Tribe

Red Lake Tribal Information Center, Archives, & Library FundSupport 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 ofChippewa Indians

ROSEAU AREA COMMUNITY & EDUCATION FUND Supports activities, projects or services that will enhance cultural, educational and recreational opportunities in theRoseau area

Marian Foley Memorial FundSupports scholarships to students from Roseau High Schooland grants to the community

Marvin LaRue Memorial FundSupports scholarships and programs for music and technicalwriting to students from Roseau High School

Joseph Schneider Memorial Scholarship Supports scholarships to students from Roseau High School

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

Roseau Adult Education FundProvides financial support to Roseau residents for pursuit of post-secondary education degrees and community education for skills training or enhancement

Roseau Area Friends of the Library Fund Supports programs, projects, and activities benefiting theRoseau Area Public Library and the Roseau Area Friends ofthe LibraryWARROAD AREA COMMUNITY FUND Supports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that will enhance or improve quality of life in theWarroad area

Bruce and Ellen Atwater Education FundSupports scholarship(s) to graduates of Warroad High School,who are pursuing education in a health care profession and provides funding for programs, projects, and activitiesthat encourage/support individual interest in the health careprofession

Warroad Swim Program FundSupports programs, projects and activities associated with orsupplementing the Warroad Public Schools swim program orthe Warroad Outstanding Warriors Swim Club


6

WARROAD AREA COMMUNITY FUND, (CONTINUED)

Warroad Point Area Restoration and Community Recovery FundSupports public and private restoration efforts that help people and businesses recover and restore tourism to thePoint area following the tornado of 2006

Warroad Memorial Arena FundSupports charitable activities or projects that will enhance or improve the Warroad ice skating arena

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

Warroad Care Center FundSupports programs, projects and activities associated withthe stated mission of the Warroad Care Center

Napa Ride to Reading FundSupports financing of books, programs, projects and activitiesassociated with the Warroad School Libraries

Margaret Ann and Paul Samuel JohnsonFamily Charitable Fund

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

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

Warroad Education Fund Supports activities, projects, or services to benefit the area’sstudents, staff, educational programs and institutions

Betty Bahnmiller Memorial FundProvides scholarships to dependents of past and presentmembers of a U.S. Navy UDT/SEAL team and who are formerstudents from Warroad High School

Edward and Agnes Brandli Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High Schoolpursuing education and engineering careers

Farmers Union Oil Co. Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School pursuing agriculture or agriculture related businesseducation careers

Jennifer Grove Memorial Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High Schoolpursuing 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 proj-ect improvements to the Warroad High School

Lee Hafdahl Memorial Scholarship Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High Schoolwith involvement in community activities

Ann and Les Henderson Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High Schoolpursuing post-secondary technical education

Justin Knebel Memorial Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School

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

Patrick O’Donnell Memorial Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High School

Katie Jo Olafson Memorial Scholarship Supports scholarships to students from Warroad High SchoolWHITE EARTH RESERVATION AREA COMMUNITY FUNDSupports charitable, educational and public purpose projects that enhance or improve quality of life on the White Earth Reservation

Community Funds


7

Component Funds – by County

Beltrami CountyBELTRAMI HUMANE SOCIETY FUND Supports activities, projects or services designed to protectand benefit the well-being of domestic animals

Ralph and Ruth Shoemate Fund Provides funding for cages and equipment for the cats and dogs BEMIDJI WATERFRONT-PAUL AND BABE MAINTENANCE FUNDProvides general funding for the restoration of the PaulBunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statuesTHE EVERGREEN HOUSE FUNDProvides financial support to further the mission of EvergreenHouse and the services it providesHEADWATERS UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP FUND Supports and furthers the mission of the fellowshipKELLIHER AREA SENIORS FUND Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefitsenior citizens in KelliherBELTRAMI COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUNDSupports activities, projects, or services to further the missionof the Beltrami County Historical SocietyBEMIDJI AREA ARTS ENDOWMENT FUND Supports art activities, projects, or services and organizationsin the Bemidji area

Bemidji Community Arts Council FundSupports the promotion and encouragement of all aspectsof art in Bemidji and the surrounding area

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

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

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

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

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

SENIOR TRUST FUND OF BELTRAMI COUNTYSupports activities, projects, or services designed to benefitsenior citizens in Beltrami CountyBEMIDJI AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT FUND Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefitthe Bemidji Public Library

Bemidji Area Public Library Mural Fund Supports the development and creation of an artistic displayin the main entry of the Bemidji Library

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

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

Ruth Stenerson Project Support Fund Provides financial support for enhancements to the BemidjiArea Public LibraryKELLIHER AREA HEALTH CARE FUNDSupports health care related activities and projects that benefit residents of the Kelliher area BEMIDJI LUMBERJACK FOUNDATION FUND Supports activities, projects, or services that enhance orimprove the education and opportunities in ISD #31

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

First National Bank, Bemidji Bonspiel FundSupports athletic activities and/or equipment for ISD #31

John F. Breen Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Bemidji High School

Ray Breen Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students from Bemidji High School

Amy Anderson English Fund Provides awards for poetry, creative writing and illustration forBemidji Middle School Students

Food Service Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students pursu-ing a food service related career

Bun and Alvera Fortier Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students whohave participated in football or basketball and will participate in post secondary intercollegiate athletics


8

Tom Gardner Memorial Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students pursuing an automotive or industrial technology degree

General Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students whichinclude:

First National Bank Foundation ScholarshipNational Honor Society Scholarship (Rural Cellular Corporation)Paul Bunyan Telephone CooperativeBeltrami Electric Cooperative ScholarshipGeorge Pelawa/Calgary Flames ScholarshipKen VanWilgen Memorial Scholarship

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

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

Pat Campbell String Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students participating in BHS Orchestra

Joe Plummer Music Fund Supports the purchase of jazz related equipment or suppliesfor ISD #31

Buck Robbins Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School studentsinvolved in athletics

Des Sagedahl Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School studentsinvolved in baseball

Troy Nelson Memorial Character Scholarship Endowment Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students whohave participated in varsity athletics with demonstratedleadership qualities

Lumberjack Security Bank Scramble Fund Supports athletic activities and/or equipment for ISD #31

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

Ruth Shannon Wilson Scholarship in Music Fund Supports scholarships to Bemidji High School students who

have leadership roles in Bemidji High School music programsand pursuing a music degreeHEARTLAND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ENDOWMENT FUND Provides financial support for activities, projects, or servicesthat benefit the students, educators, facilities, and programsoffered by or through the AcademyST. MARY’S MISSION SCHOOL ENDOWMENT FUND Supports the general operations of the school program andassists with renovationsJAMES AND SYLVIA SANDE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDSupports scholarships to students from ISD #32 (Bemidji), andISD #115 (Cass Lake-Bena)BEMIDJI AREA PARKS AND TRAILS ENDOWMENT FUND Provides financial support for the park, trail, and recreationalamenities of the Bemidji area

Bemidji First City of Lights FundProvides general funding for the First City of Lights festivities at the Bemidji WaterfrontBIG BOG STATE RECREATION AREA ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND Supports the development of the Big Bog State Recreation area GIZIIBII RESOURCE CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT FUNDSupports activities, projects, or services that balance growthof the economy and wise stewardship of Natural resources,in support of the mission of the Giziibii RC&D service areaGREATER BEMIDJI OUTDOOR FOUNDATION Supports building, maintaining, and promoting the use of non-motorized public trails in the Greater Bemidji areaUPPER MISSISSIPPI WATERSHED ENDOWMENT FUND Provides current and long term support for activitiesKELLIHER AREA HEALTH CARE FUNDSupports health care related activities and projects that ben-efit residents of the Kelliher area BACKSTROM FAMILY CHARITABLE FUNDProvides financial support for qualifying charitable and edu-cational programs, projects, and activitiesBAER FAMILY FUND Provides financial support for community development inBemidji, scholarships at Bemidji State University, materials forthe Bemidji Area Public Library, and healthcare services atNorth Country Regional Hospital



9

Component Funds – by CountyMEADE FAMILY FUND Supports charitable and educational programs, projects,and activities benefiting educators in Minnesota and North DakotaWILLIAM A. AND ELOISE E. NELSON FUND Supports charitable, education and scientific programs,projects, and activities; preference given to educational orenvironmental interestsOJA FAMILY FUND Supports qualifying charitable and educational programs,projects, and activities

Clearwater CountyCLEARWATER COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY FUNDSupports the maintenance and needs of animals housedwith Clearwater County Humane SocietyCLEARWATER COUNTY AREA HEALTH CARE FUNDPromotes programs and projects that will enhance qualityhealthcare in the community

Clearwater Health Services Cancer Screening FundProvides funding for a portion of medical care for patientswith cancer or cancer related illnesses and/or for programsand services

Clearwater Emergency Services Fund Provides programs, equipment and services conducted byemergency services organizations in Clearwater County orareas served by Clearwater Health Services

Greensview Endowment and Project FundSupports programs, equipment, and services that enhancethe quality of life and benefit the residents of the Center

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

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 privateroom within the Clearwater County Memorial Hospital forfamily members of Hospice patientsWEE-CARE CHILDREN’S CENTER FUND Supports a non-profit childcare center serving Clearwater County

CLEARBROOK-GONVICK EDUCATION ENDOWMENT FUNDSupports activities, projects or services that benefit the area’sstudents, staff, programs and institutions that benefit theClearbrook-Gonvick school

Playground Fund Provides funding for the playground benefiting theClearbrook-Gonvick School

Thorbeck Field Fund Provides financial support for development and improve-ments to the outdoor recreation field at the Clearbrook-Gonvick School

Clearbrook-Gonvick Performing Arts Fund Supports the establishment of a facility for the performing arts in Clearbrook, MN

Hubbard CountyLAPORTE EDUCATION FUND Supports activities, projects, or services benefiting students,staff, educational programs and institutions and scholarshipsto students from the Laporte school

Laporte-Benedict VFW Scholarship FundSupports scholarships to students from Laporte High Schooland the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School who live inLaporte

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

Community Playground Fund Provides funding for the playground benefiting the Laporteschool district and greater Laporte community

Kittson CountyJULIE HOLMQUIST MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDSupports scholarships to Hallock area studentsKITTSON MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE CENTER FOUNDATION FUND Supports recruitment and retention of healthcare profession-als, skill upgrading for current staff, and for building andequipment improvements


10

Lake of the Woods CountyLAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY HUMANESOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUNDSupports the maintenance and needs of animals housedwith the Lake of the Woods County Humane Society

LAKE OF THE WOODS INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTCORPORATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND Provides financial support for programs, projects, activitiesand scholarships that benefit students from Lake of theWoods County

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

Mahnomen CountyMAHNOMEN EDUCATION FUND Supports activities, projects, or services designed to benefitthe area’s students, staff, programs and Institutions

General Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Mahnomen High School students

Les Hanson Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Mahnomen High School students

Milton Hockel Scholarship FundSupports scholarships to students pursuing the field of NaturalResources

Gen. Ike and Maj. Bruce Isaacson Scholarship FundSupports scholarships to students pursing geography, socialstudies, history, or any other related field

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

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

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

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

WARREN-ALVARADO-OSLO EDUCATION FOUNDATIONSupports preserving and enhancing current education programs and provides scholarships for students pursuing acollege education

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

Myron and Margaret Carlson Scholarship FundSupports scholarships to Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High Schoolstudents

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

OMDAHL ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION FUND Supports charitable educational and scientific programs,projects, and activities that support or benefit environmentaland conservation causes

WETLANDS, PINES, & PRAIRIE AUDUBON SANCTUARY (ELDORAND STELLA OMDAHL) ENDOWMENT FUND Supports the activities, projects, or services designed to pro-vide on-site and regional environmental education; managesthe sanctuary for birds and wildlife species; and, developsdemonstration areas for land management practices

Norman CountyBRIDGES MEDICAL SERVICES FOUNDATIONSupports the purchase, maintenance and repair of physicaltherapy, occupational therapy, cardiac rehabilitation equipment, instruments and facilities at Bridges MedicalServices in Ada, Minnesota

Pennington CountyTHIEF RIVER FALLS EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUNDSupports community projects that benefit children birth – age 5OLE AND RUTH TWEET FAMILY FUND Provides financial support for areas of interest to the Tweet family



11


Polk CountyFOSSTON 21ST CENTURY ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND Supports the Fosston Community Library Arts Association inFosston, and advances cultural, social and civic interestsFERTILE AREA ARMED FORCES VETERANS FUNDSupports programs, projects and activities that recognize the commitment, service and sacrifice of the United StatesArmed Forces personnel from FertileCROOKSTON EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE FUND Supports community projects that benefit children from birth – age 5DISTRICT #593 (CROOKSTON) EDUCATION FOUNDATIONENDOWMENT FUNDSupports educational opportunities for the Districts studentsand for scholarships to students pursuing a career in education

Frances Drivold Special Education Fund Supports life skills and vocational programs for developmen-tally disabled studentsEAST POLK COUNTY FAIR SCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports scholarships, programs, projects and activities benefiting students from East Polk County

FOSSTON EDUCATION FOUNDATIONSupports the students, staff, educational programs, and institutions in Fosston

Wilma & Franklin Vikan Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing higher education in the field of music

Dean Clementson Scholarship FundSupports Fosston High School students entering into publicservice careers

LuVerne Trogstad Education and Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to students and faculty from FosstonHigh School

Dean & Joyce McNelly Vocational Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students whoattended a vocational class and graduated, or earned ahigh school equivalency diploma

Jim Miller Memorial Math Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing education in mathematics

Fosston Livestock Shipping Association Animal Science Scholarship Fund Supports scholarships to Fosston High School students pursuing education in Animal Science

Cameron Badurek Memorial FundTo provide annual funding for the ‘Cameron Badurek PeaceAward’ given in Cam’s memory and a scholarship; and, toprovide funding for “Cam’s Legacy,” a community grant pro-gram benefiting charitable, educational, and communityprograms, projects and activities that improve life in theFosston area

FIRST CARE MEDICAL SERVICES FOUNDATION Supports the mission and long-term stability of First CareMedical Services

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

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

Red Lake CountyRED LAKE FALLS EDUCATION FUND Supports educational excellence in the Red Lake Falls school district

Richard Bresnahan Leadership in the Arts FundSupports professional development opportunities for teachersand artists who teach primarily in ISD #630 and/or programsthat promote innovative arts education

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

Kris Fontaine Scholarship Fund Supports scholarship to students in Red Lake Falls

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

TWO RIVERS AREA THEATRE ENDOWMENT AND PROJECT FUND – SCHOLARSHIP FUNDSupports activities, projects, or services that benefit the TwoRivers area, with preference given to the presentation ofamateur theatricals, plays, recitations and dramatic productions


12

Roseau CountyROSEAU AREA HOSPITAL AND HOMES HEALTH CARE FUNDProvides financial support for health care and senior livingrelated charitable and educational activities, projects, orservices benefiting residents and visitors to the RoseauHospital service area

Eagles Auxiliary Diabetes & Dialysis FundProvides financial support for programs and services offeredby RAHH that address the diabetic and dialysis needs in theservice area

Maggi Adams Medical Equipment Fund Support for medical equipment or other related purposes atRoseau Area Hospital and Homes

Parish Nursing FundProvides financial support for education, staffing, equipmentand activities related to parish nurse programs within RAHHcommunities

Roseau Area Hospital & Homes Hospice Fund Supports the Roseau Area Hospital and Homes Hospice program

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

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

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

NICK PETERSON SCHOLARSHIP FUNDSupports scholarships to Roseau High School Seniors; and/orcontributes to charitable organizations that assist persons inpoverty, youth education, youth athletics, or drug abuse education and rehabilitation

Multi-County/Regional LEONARD J. AND ROSEMOND KUCERA MEMORIALSCHOLARSHIP FUND Supports scholarships to students from International Falls,Indus, Littlefork-Big Falls, or Northome schools

RED RIVER VALLEY EMERGING LEADERSHIP FUND Supports rural leadership development and other programsthat develop and expand leadership skills of people within or associated with the Red River Valley

COURAGE CENTER PROGRAMS AND CAMPS FUND Supports programs, projects, activities, or services that furtherthe mission of the Courage Center

NORTHWEST MINNESOTA WOMEN’S FUND Supports activities, projects, services or programs that improvethe quality of life and strengthening and empowerment ofwomen and girls in the region

MAJOR ROBERT OLSON MEMORIAL FUND Support for charitable and educational programs, projects,activities or services benefiting the Littlefork-Big Falls Publicschool district and for scholarships to Littlefork-Big Falls schooldistrict students

MIKE STAPLES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND Provides scholarships to students interested in pursuing acareer 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) andISD #113 (Walker-Hackensack-Akeley)

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

INGENUITY FRONTIER FUNDSupports activities and projects that enhance or improve the applied engineering and manufacturing capacity inNorthwest Minnesota

HEADWATERS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSIONLEADERSHIP FUND Supports leadership-related activities and initiatives of the HRDC

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

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



Roseau Area Community FundGrows with New IRA Gift Law

The recently passed Pension Protection Act of2006 created a new charitable planning option –Individual Retirement Account CharitableDistributions. The R. F. Foley Family has utilized thenew philanthropic opportunity to establish theRoseau Adult Education Fund, which will providefinancial support to Roseau residents for pursuit ofpost-secondary education degrees and communityeducation for skills training or enhancement. It is arestricted fund of the Roseau Area CommunityFund, joining a family of six other funds.

There is a program already being developed with the $75,000 gift, which will provide for thedevelopment of a college classroom at the Roseau Community Center. Northland CommunityCollege will now have a satellite location in Roseau to conduct classes and the community will also be able to use it for other training opportunities. Items purchased include 18 new desktop computers and accessories, desks,chairs, whiteboards and bulletin boards.

An additional $5,000 was donat-ed to the Roseau Friends of theLibrary endowment fund, whichwill help to support programs,projects, and activities benefitingthe Roseau Area Public Libraryand the Roseau Area Friends of the Library.

Along with an outright sum ofmoney, the majority of the contri-bution was the result of the IRA giftoption. According to Robert F.Foley, this achieved the family’scharitable goal — to help Roseauwith the continuing training andeducation of its residents.

Foley said, "The major advantage of using thismethod is that the gift is made directly from the IRAcustodian to an eligible organization, which in mostcases enables more of the funds to be availablewithout triggering taxable income to the donor."

The basic rules of the act are:Age 701/2 – Minimum age for the option.Direct Transfer – Contact your IRA custodian fordirect transfer instructions to NorthwestMinnesota Foundation or other qualifying com-ponent fund.Not Taxable – Qualifying distributions are not taxable income.No Tax Deduction – You cannot claim anincome tax deduction for this transfer.Excluded Component Funds – Donor advisedfunds do not qualify for the IRA CharitableDistribution. Northwest Minnesota Foundationendowments, community fund endowments,field of interest funds and agency funds doqualify.Qualifies for Required Minimum Distribution – This

allows donor to meet IRA distribution requirementswithout realizing income, possiblyresulting in lower taxableincome.

An IRA owner age 701/2 or older may make direct transfers to a charity, like the NorthwestMinnesota Foundation and manyof our component funds. This transfer option is available in 2006 and 2007 and may be up to $100,000 in each year.

For more information on plannedand deferred charitable giftoptions, please visit the PlannedGiving Guide at www.nwmf.org.

New IRA Gift Law

13

The Foley Family


14

Advisory CommitteesMost component funds held by the Northwest

Minnesota Foundation have an advisory commit-tee. Advisory committees exist to recommendappropriate uses of component fund assets andearnings to the foundation’s board of directors.Membership is voluntary.

The advisory committee is also maintained to recommend and oversee the fund’s specific activities. The number of members is usuallybetween seven and eighteen, typically serving staggered three-year terms.

Fund advisory committees strive to be diverse andshould, if possible, include at least two people withfinancial or professional expertise. All members mustunderstand and support the mission of the fund,maintain good policies and procedures to guidethe fund, and carry out the work of the fund as developed by the committee. They also facilitateasset development and developing operatingfunds.

Public relations activity is important work done bythe advisory committee. They speak often and posi-tively of their fund whenever the opportunity pres-ents itself. Advisory committee members are alert to

opportunities that could benefit the communitythrough the local fund, for publicity, financial com-mitments, potential donors, and in other ways.

As fundraisers, they should also be prepared to make a significant charitable commitment to the fund during service on the advisory committee by contributing financially according to personal means.

Additional duties, depending on the level of fund activity, financial capability and type of fund, include:

• Serving in leadership positions and undertaking special assignments;

• Ensuring that adequate staff is available to carry out the goals established by the advisory committee;

• Attending meetings, events and training opportunities for advisory committees, sponsored by the fund and the foundation;

• Award grants in a fair and responsible manner recommending to the NMF board of directors those grants to be funded;

• Develop leadership in the community for philanthropy.

Operations of a Fund

The advisory committee of the Northwest MinnesotaWomen’s Fund is one example of a cohesive, activeand committed group of volunteers, all working withthe mission in mind. The Women’s Fund was establishedto serve as a catalyst for improving the quality of lifefor women and girls; promoting ideas and supportingprograms for the continued strengthening andempowerment of all women.

Since being establishedon February 21, 1997, over 25women have served termson the advisory committee.Starting with zero dollars,

they have grown the fund to nearly $250,000 in assets,primarily individual gifts of $1,000 from women who livein a mostly rural, economically disadvantaged, andsparsely populated region, who were chiefly unfamiliarwith philanthropy and endowment power. Now, theirfaith and commitments are truly making a difference.

The advisory committee’s voluntary effort and dedication have made it possible to award $15,500 in

grants benefiting women and girls. They have recog-nized 26 regional Outstanding Community Builders andinducted 17 women into the Northwest MinnesotaWomen’s Hall of Fame.

Their membership on the committee is definitely notabout socializing during meeting times, but doing theserious business of making sure the mission is beingserved. As a regional fund, many of the members do

not know each other at all, which hasnever been an issue. They have the com-mon connection and belief in the goals ofthe Women’s Fund. The decisions for grantawards and selection of award recipientsare often difficult. And asking people fordonations takes many people outside oftheir comfort zones.

Current Chairwoman Florence Hedeensaid,“Being invited in 1999 to join the advi-

sory committee ofthe NorthwestMinnesota Women'sFund really struck achord as a womanwho believes in thepotential of womenand girls.

“Becoming aFounder at the$1,000 level andencouraging othersto make significantgifts to the Women'sFund has beenrewarded over and

over again,” Hedeen added.“Annually the advisorycommittee directs the earnings of the Women's Fundtoward its vision of assisting women and girls in theregion to reach their full potential. The accomplish-ments seen since 1998 in grant making, recognition of Community Builders and Northwest MinnesotaWomen's Hall of Fame inductions represent a fantasticreturn on a modest investment, made possible by thegrowth of the Women's Fund endowment,” she said.

“Imagine what we'll do with a million dollars!”Hedeen said, in reference to one of the fund’s long-term goals.

15

Advisory Committees

Northwest MinnesotaWomen’s FundAdvisory Committee.L-R back row: JodyHorntvedt; FlorenceHedeen; Lisa Peterson(NMF staff); JeannineWindels. Front row:Barbara Muesing;Gloria Kaste;Vicki Svedarsky;Norma Hanson;Nancy Carroll.

The Northwest Minnesota Women’s Hall of Fame display in the AC Clark Library at Bemidji State University.

Recently, a grant was made tothe Roseau Area Hospital and

Homes for its Go RedCampaign, promoting heart

health for women.Pictured L-R: Jody Horntvedt,

Women’s Fund AdvisoryCommittee; Deb Haugen, GoRed Campaign Coordinator;

and, Gayle Swanson,Cardiac Rehab Nurse.

N O R T H W E S T M I N N E S O T A W O M E N ’ S F U N D

R O S E A U A R E A H O S P I T A L & H O M E S H E A L T H C A R E F U N D

Funds in ActionAdvisory committees often raise funds in familiar

ways: through a series of special events, charity auc-tions of donated items, specially produced gift or artitems, or in cooperation with businesses, who offer their goods or services for sale, with a portion of theproceeds being donated to the cause.

These activities don’t work for every type of compo-nent fund, particularly for community funds. However,in the case of the Roseau Area Hospital and Homes

(RAHH) HealthCare Fund, allof the abovemethods ofsolicitingdonationswere usedsuccessfully fortheir fall cam-paign, named“Partners forHealth.” It was

their first effort of this kind since the fund was estab-lished in 2005. The group is working to raise over $10,000this year.

The RAHH Health Care Fund kicked off its “Go Red”campaign for women’s heart health, which educateswomen of all ages on healthy heart lifestyles. As anextension of this highly successful campaign, theHealth Care Fund advisory committee held a specialevent to raise funds for the Health Care Fund, whichcontinued the “Go Red” theme.

A formal event entitled “Partners for Health: A GoRed Event” was held on November 18th at the RoseauCity Center. Along with a special dinner and program,the advisory committee arranged for local artists todonate pieces for auction at the event. Proceeds fromthe auction and dinner have helped to build theendowment of the Health Care Fund.

In conjunction with the “Partners for Health” events,a calendar was produced with the “Go Red” theme,which was sold to raise additional funds. And localflorists donated some of the proceeds to the HealthCare Fund from each purchase of “Go Red” floralarrangements.

One of the fund’s volunteers is 11th grade RoseauHigh student Kirsten Didrikson, whose mother is a localphysician. Kirsten participated in “Go Red” fund raisingby heading up the marketing efforts for the floralarrangements. She worked with area floral shops tocome up with a plan for selling their products duringthe campaign in early November. These activities willallow her to work toward her Girl Scout “Gold Award.”

Like the Women’s Fundadvisory committee, theRAHH Health Care Fund’sgroup is striving in a volun-tary capacity to grow thefund. Northwest MinnesotaFoundation assists the fundsby processing gifts and mak-ing sure that each donor isthanked for their contribu-tion, and then notified thattheir gift is receipted proper-ly for tax purposes.

There is special satisfac-tion that comes from givingback to your community.

A successful event, a special recognition, a thankfulgrant recipient, and generous donors help to make the effort very meaningful for a volunteer, which addsvalue to their home towns.

If you’re serving as a volunteer, the foundationthanks you. If you’re a donor to a fund, we truly appreciate your contribution. We encourage all residents to find out how to get involved with our familyof funds to join in making the region the best place to live and work.

16

Marv Espe with the painting he created anddonated for the art auction.

Mary Hayes and Mavis Wahlberg, artists and donors.An original oil painting donated for the auction.


17

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation providesflexible and responsive ways for making gifts, bywhich our donors may realize significant tax benefitswhile leveraging their charitable contributions forgreater gain.

SecurityDonors can be assured that their gifts will endure

to benefit future generations.

Professional ManagementDonors have a variety of deferred giving options

and estate planning.

Tax BenefitsDonors can achieve their philanthropic objectives

while providing the benefits of additional income,stewardship, and estate tax and capital gains taxreduction; gifts to NMF qualify for charitable giftdeductions to the extent of the law.

Investing money for charitable purposes requirescare and skill, and also yields great rewards. Even

small gifts, strategically placed, can make tremen-dous differences in a community’s quality of life.

With as little as $2,000, an agency or field of inter-est fund may be established to serve any charitablepurpose. These funds benefit a specific nonprofitcommunity organization or interest area. Donoradvised funds allow individual donors and familiesthe opportunity to act on deeply held values andcommunity interests. Local community funds helpbring charitable interests and philanthropic potential together, to support existing and futurecommunity needs.

All NMF funds qualify for maximum charitable taxdeductibility as gifts to a public charity. Fund assetsare managed by NMF under a written investmentpolicy. NMF staff provides support and training forthe important work of building community assetsthrough these funds and overseeing responsiblegrant making. This helps further nonprofit and community success by allowing more time to focuson the mission. Through philanthropy, groups andindividuals make lasting differences in their communities, leaving legacies that reflect their values for generations.

Funds and Gifts


18

Planned Giving

Planned Giving Options in Personal and Family Philanthropy

Philanthropy offers some of the most satisfyingpleasures in life because it calls forth and givesexpression to the best in us. Grounded by values,fueled by caring and optimism, extended by generosity, and evaluated on concrete results,it is rewarded by the deep gratification of a job well done.

Planned giving allows you to take advantage of a favorable tax deduction now in exchange for a future commitment to the foundation from you or your estate.

Including the Northwest Minnesota Foundationand/or component funds in your will is an easy wayto create a permanent memorial to the good worksyou cared about during your lifetime. Here aresome options:

Bequests of cash, securities, or property can significantly reduce estate tax liability which ultimately benefits your heirs.

Charitable Remainder Trusts offer you or anotherbeneficiary income for a lifetime or through theterm of the trust. When the trust expires, theCommunity Foundation receives the remainder to carry out your charitable intentions.

Charitable Lead Trusts provide you with the opportunity to enjoy your philanthropy during yourlife. The Foundation receives income from the trustnow. After a set period of time determined by you, the trust remainder is distributed to you oranother beneficiary.

Life Insurance is an excellent choice for creatinga major gift at little cost to you. By naming theCommunity Foundation as owner and beneficiaryof a new or existing life insurance policy, you receivea tax deduction for the value and any subsequentpremium payments. When the policy is redeemed,

the Foundation will use the proceeds to carry out your charitable objectives.

Retirement Plan Assets from qualified 401(k),Keogh, 403(b), IRA, or profit sharing plans can beused to create a charitable fund in your name.Gifting retirement plan assets may also reduceestate tax liabilities incurred by your heirs.

Ritchie Houge, Vice President of PhilanthropicServices, is your resource for information about ways to give and types of gifts that will benefit your long-term charitable objectives for the mostdirect and lasting impact. Please call him toll free at 1-800-659-7859 or e-mail [email protected]. Hewould be happy to meet with both you and yourfinancial/legal advisor(s) to establish a gift vehiclethat most effectively meets your needs.

Please visit the Northwest Minnesota Foundationweb site www.nwmf.org and click on our PlannedGiving Guide for complete, comprehensive andeasy-to-understand information about your giftoptions.

Our site contains a comprehensive resource for your gift planning questions.

• Discover all of the tax and income benefits of the various kinds of planned gifts.

• Read in-depth about trusts and annuities that pay you an income for life.

• Get tips on how you can make gifts from life insurance policies, retirement plan assets or appreciated property.

• Learn how to set up your will so that the govern-ment does not benefit more than your heirs.

• Discover a virtual encyclopedia of informationon how and what to give.

• Access hundreds of up-to-date articles on making the most of your charitable giving.

• Calculate your income tax deduction for charitable gifts.

4225 Technology Drive NWBemidji, MN 56601

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

NONPROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDBEMIDJI, MN

56601PERMIT NO. 36

Northwest Minnesota Foundation – www.nwmf.orgCONTACT US: 218-759-2057 – 800-659-7859 – FAX 218-759-2328 – [email protected]

Northwest Minnesota Foundation – www.nwmf.orgCONTACT US: 218-759-2057 – 800-659-7859 – FAX 218-759-2328 – [email protected]

Document

Documents

Transcript of Document