The Initiative Foundation and its Partner Funds awarded a total of 147 grants exceeding $1.4 million during the second quarter of 2025. A notable grant included a $500,000 donation from the Memorial Hospital Foundation, a Partner Fund, to New Pathways in Cambridge, aimed at supporting a permanent family shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. Additionally, a special grant round allocated $100,000 to 18 food shelves serving very small communities with populations under 1,000.
The Initiative Foundation itself awarded 48 grants worth over $230,000 in the same period. These grants supported various initiatives such as trauma training at Arrows Family Services in Milaca, enabling 10 organizations to attend the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits fundraising conference, and providing general support to Parenting With Grace in Buffalo.
Meanwhile, the Foundation’s Partner Funds granted nearly $1.2 million through 99 awards. These included the significant Memorial Hospital Foundation grant and funds for community projects like a fireworks display in Pease, beautification efforts in downtown Hackensack, and new flexible seating for fifth graders in Little Falls.
Brian Voerding, president of the Initiative Foundation, emphasized that these grants represent meaningful investments in Central Minnesota’s communities. From rural food shelves to nonprofit strategic planning, the funding supports local solutions that strengthen the region.
Among the grantees receiving Initiative Foundation support in April through June 2025 were the Hooyo Hour Organization for strategic planning, Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation for continuous improvement initiatives, and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud to enhance volunteer engagement.
Partner Funds also made impactful grants, including $65,000 from the Albany Area Education Foundation for a climbing wall in local schools, $2,000 from the Staples-Motley Area Community Foundation to LEAP, Inc. for a natural trail project, and $1,000 from the Rum River Community Foundation to support the Milaca Wolves Snack Pack program.
For a full list of grants and additional details, the Initiative Foundation encourages visiting their website.
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