WELCOME

We’re Better Together

When we got word this past fall that philanthropist MacKenzie Scott would be making a $10 million gift to DMF, we felt a lot of things. We were humbled that such a high-profile donor felt the Foundation was worthy of this investment; we were appreciative to see our team’s hard work validated; and, most importantly, we were excited imagining all the good that could be done and inspired with such a generous sum.

But it stirred in us another emotion as well: gratitude. The gift reminded us how grateful we are for the privilege of getting to carry out the work of DMF every day but also for all the people who made it possible in the first place: the pioneering physicians who founded Dakota Hospital at great personal sacrifice, the members and volunteers who have supported and promoted DMF causes, and all the staff and partners who over the years have helped make this the healthiest and most generous region bar none.

Ms. Scott’s gift was the culmination of decades of collective effort by countless individuals and organizations and was a reminder of how fortunate we are to be surrounded by some of the most selfless, hardest-working people in the world on a daily basis.

And the gift couldn’t have come at a better time.

As our country grows more divided seemingly by the day and people of all ages continue to suffer at increasing rates from diseases of despair — anxiety, depression, addiction, suicide, and obesity — we believe we’re all called to be a light in a time of darkness. All of this has made us reimagine what DMF could be.

2023 will be a year of reinvention and experimentation, with an eye at all times toward a return to civility, kindness, and care and concern for one’s neighbor. Gandhi implored us to be the change we wish to see in the world, and this year we’ll be doing exactly that. Whether it’s using Giving Hearts Day or Lend A Hand Up to drastically expand volunteerism, developing a curriculum on healthy technology use, or funding increased access to extracurricular activities for underserved populations, we will spread positivity and compassion in everything we do. The possibilities are endless, and we welcome all input and ideas.

Everyone has the ability to make a difference, and it’s our mission to help as many people as possible realize that and put it into action. We’re glad to have you on this journey with us.

Amanda Thomas Board Chair

J. Patrick Traynor, JD Executive Director