IQ Magazine - Q3 2013 by Initiative Foundation

3RD QUARTER 2013

ECONOMY

Forums for Change—Anderson Center offers engaging brand of leadership training. Pg. 10

PHILANTHROPY

Lasting Wishes—Wills and funds unite to serve donors and their causes. Pg. 14

COMMUNITY

Extra Strength—VISTA members work for the greater good Pg. 22

Uplifting Stories: The 2013 Initiative Awards PAGE 28

Initiative Foundation Quarterly 3rd Quarter 2013

Contents Features

departments

22 Extra Strength

VISTA members fight poverty by strengthening organizations from the inside out.

2013 Initiative Award Winners

28 Safe Science

Economic growth can happen anywhere, even in a Petri dish.

32 Angels Among Us

Not all good deeds are recognized, and that’s just the way they like it.

36 Home Work

The local career and the local economy. The high school class and the college course. The will-do student and the can-do business. Finally, they’re all connected.

40 Community Centered

It’s a story about volunteer spirit and a little thrift store that could.

51 Awards Event Photos

Initiatives

The Foundation’s regional investment highlights.

10 Business

Forums for Change —Anderson Center offers an engaging brand of leadership and management training.

14 Philanthropy

Lasting Wishes—Wills and funds unite to serve donors and the causes that inspire them.

18 Community

Small Town, Big Plans—Randall residents are working to put the community back on the map.

44 Business

Leadership Rewind—What life experiences contributed to making you a successful leader?

56 Home Made

CavCom, Inc., Walker, Minn.— Products made right here in central Minnesota.

60 Where is IQ?

The 2013 Initiative Foundation Awards were held at the River’s Edge Convention Center, St. Cloud, on October 11, 2013.

3RD QUARTER 2013

Dear Friends, “I want my Gamma.” This has become the mantra at my son’s house when things aren’t going quite the way two-year old Theo prefers. And when the going gets really tough: “I want bofe my Gammas.” Even though Theo lives far away in Utah, Daddy Luke and Momma Anna are fortunate to have a support network of military, church and neighborhood friends who are there when they need them. As I much as I hate to admit it, preschool Photo courtesy of inspired design, kids need more than one or even two “Gammas” Theo inspireddesignandphotography.com to thrive in today’s world. They need the support of an entire community. As we celebrate ten years of the Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative, a joint program of the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations, we are all reminded that investing in kids pays off in more than cuteness. For every dollar dropped into the early childhood piggy bank, we earn $16 in future savings from criminal corrections, special education and other public programs that would no longer be needed. Landmark studies have illustrated the dramatic influence of very early experience on the actual wiring of the human brain. Early stimulation paves the way for later growth and development. In the last decade, 86 statewide coalitions—15 of our own in Central Minnesota— have rallied their communities and legislators to make early childhood a top priority. Educators, healthcare professionals, social workers and child care providers have joined forces with business and community leaders to support moms, dads and caregivers. We are proud to have played a role in their connection and success. A regional “Cradle to Career” movement is taking a long-term view on workforce development. Programs include the Boot Camp for New Dads, FRED (Fathers Reading Every Day), Ready Set Go, and Lllama Llama Read-a-Rama. Cool things are happening in Brainerd, Onamia, Pine City, Pequot Lakes, St. Cloud and everywhere around and in between. We are excited to launch a new initiative in 2014 to increase awareness and resources for early childhood dental care. Kids can’t learn if they are in pain from tooth decay. The name of the game is vision, innovation, generosity and perseverance. Coincidentally, these are the same qualities reflected by the winners of our 2013 Initiative Awards. You can read their inspiring stories in this inspiring issue of IQ. And don’t miss the story on our amazing VISTA program, which mobilizes the passion and talents of full-time volunteers to help nonprofit organizations fight poverty. Now excuse me, but this Gamma has to catch a plane to Utah. Enjoy the magazine!

VO LU M E 1 2 , 3RD QUA RTE R 2 0 1 3 INITI AT I V E F OUNDA TI ON President | Kathy Gaalswyk Vice President for External Relations | Matt Kilian Marketing & Communications Manager | Bob McClintick ED I TO RI A L Managing Editor | Elizabeth Foy Larsen Writer | Laura Billings Coleman Writer | Gene Rebeck Writer | Lawrence Schumacher Writer | Andy Steiner Writer | Maria Surma Manka AR T Art Director | Andrea Baumann Photographer | John Linn Photographer | Justin Wohlrabe AD V ER TI S I NG / S U BS CR I PTIONS Advertising Director | Brian Lehman Advertising Manager | Lois Head Advertiser Services | Janelle Breen Subscriber Services | Katie Riitters 405 First Street SE Little Falls, MN 56345 320.632.9255 | ifound.org IQ Magazine unlocks the power of central Minnesota leaders to understand and take action on regional issues.

Kathy Gaalswyk President Printed at Range, Inc. with Soy-Based Ink on Recycled Paper

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RANGEDELIVERS.COM

Our greatest assets are our children.

Congratulations to the parents, educators and volunteers as well as the business, nonprofit and government leaders who

We are proud to invest in them.

have made young children a top priority in Minnesota.

Celebrating 10 Years: Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative STATE OF MINNESOTA PROCLAMATION WHEREAS: The Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative, established in 2003 by the Minnesota Initiative Foundations to promote high-quality early care and education for children ages birth to 5, celebrates its 10-year milestone; and The Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative has established the guiding principles that every child must have the opportunity to learn, be safe and be loved; parents have the most important role to play, but need and deserve the support of the broader community to be successful; all children must enter school ready to learn; investment in our youngest children leads to valuable economic impact in our communities; and the best interest of our youngest children must be a priority for local leaders and all policy makers; and In 10 years, has established a network of 86 community coalitions working to recruit diverse stakeholders to engage in coalitions, raise awareness about the importance of quality early childhood experiences, stimulate leaders to create responses to local needs and create a unified voice to influence public and private policy; and Thousands of young children in Minnesota have been given a strong start to learning, achieving and succeeding due to the contributions and shared vision of the Minnesota Initiative Foundations, program funders, and many volunteers, community partners and donors statewide. Now, therefore, I, Mark Dayton, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby proclaim October 24, 2013 to be:

Minnesota Early Childhood Initiativeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day in the State of Minnesota.

Initiatives

Regional Investment Highlights Wellness in Wadena WADENA COUNTY

Construction is under way on the $12.4 million Maslowski Wellness and Research Center. The facility just north of the Wadena-Deer Creek Middle/High School will combine a community center and swimming pool, both of which were destroyed by a tornado in June 2010. The 52,500-squarefoot wellness center will include a gymnasium, indoor swimming pool, therapy pool, fitness center, racquetball courts and community meeting spaces.

Going Plaid In Pine River CASS COUNTY

In a nod to the hard-working legacy that shaped the area, Pine River has adopted a new “Plaid on Purpose” theme. Drive through town and you’ll see plaid flags snapping in the breeze. With the help of the Foundation’s Thriving Communities Initiative and supporting grants, Pine River also is working to revitalize the Dam Park on the Pine River, make business district improvements to accommodate cars, bikes and pedestrians and expanding community gardens and local foods opportunities.

A Bridge To Diversity TODD COUNTY

Cultures are aligning in the greater Long Prairie area, where an Initiative Foundation grant is helping Hispanic and white communities forge new relationships through the Dreams United Diversity project. Through this concerted effort to bridge cultural differences, the community has come together for cultural exchanges, celebrations, community gardens and business development efforts.

Better Bandwidth MORRISON COUNTY

A project to install fiber optic cable throughout the community of Little Falls will deliver high-capacity bandwidth for internet and telephone services. The plan calls for fiber optics service to City Hall, Atomic Learning, Little Falls schools, Larson Boats and the industrial parks, among other locations. The Initiative Foundation provided financing for the purchase and installation of the fiber optic system.

Welcome, John!

TLC For Foley

John J. Babcock, president of St. Martinbased Rotochopper, is joining the Initiative Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Babcock served on the Initiative Foundation’s business finance committees from 2003 to 2010 and also on the Foundation’s seed committee for start-up ventures. Rotochopper manufactures industrial grinding equipment for a global audience that turns waste materials into engineered fiber products.

Using grassroots community support, Foley citizens are leveraging the Foundation’s Thriving Communities Initiative to create and implement a common vision to improve the area’s economic climate, and to add to the local quality of life by making improvements centered on youth and workforce opportunities.

STEARNS COUNTY

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BENTON COUNTY

Growing Cowgirl Tuff WRIGHT COUNTY

Cokato-based Cowgirl Tuff has a new 30,000-square-foot office and warehouse thanks in part to an Initiative Foundation construction loan. Cowgirl Tuff designs and distributes fashionable western apparel with an emphasis on comfort. The company distributes its products through a network of more than 1,700 stores nationwide.

Northwoods Good CROW WING COUNTY

Crow Wing County and the Initiative Foundation are celebrating the successful completion of the Mississippi Northwoods project, which brought private, nonprofit and government groups together to protect 2.7 miles of undeveloped river shoreline and 2,000 wooded acres just north of Brainerd. The project links with state trust land, county forest and a wildlife management area to create nine miles of protected shoreline.

Community Unity PINE COUNTY

The community of Sandstone is sprucing up its appearance and bringing its citizens together. The effort supported by the Foundation’s Thriving Communities Initiative has resulted in a community-wide paint-a-thon to brighten up neighborhoods as well as a Night Out celebration to encourage social interaction and local buying opportunities. Emilee Franklin / Pine County Courier

Connecting Kanabec KANABEC COUNTY

An Initiative Foundation grant to the city of Mora allowed the Kanabec Broadband Initiative to successfully complete a feasibility study and develop a plan to meet a statewide broadband goal of 10 to 20 Mbps to every home and business. The project goal is to keep Kanabec County competitive with the rest of the state to better attract people and jobs to the area.

Fishing & Beyond MILLE LACS COUNTY

When you think of Mille Lacs Lake, you think of fishing. But the area has much more to offer. And that’s the goal of the Mille Lacs Lake Tourism project. Communities dotting this great Minnesota water resource and the Initiative Foundation are working together to create a four-season plan to diversify the area’s tourism appeal to include biking, shopping, dining, camping, all-terrain vehicle opportunities, bird- and wildlife-watching and, of course, year-round fishing.

Algae & Agriculture

Welcome, Steve! ISANTI COUNTY

CHISAGO COUNTY

Biomatrix, a manufacturer of additives for livestock and companion animals, with the help of the Initiative Foundation, has embarked on an effort to produce an algaederived feed product rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 rich algae can replace or supplement the use of fish oil and fish meal and are a renewable resource. The Initiative Foundation provided financing for equipment used to package the product.

Steve Shurts, president and chief executive officer of East Central Energy, is joining the Initiative Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Shurts has more than 30 years of experience in the utility and energy business. ECE, a member-owned electric cooperative headquartered in Braham, provides electric service for more than 57,000 homes, farms and businesses in east central Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

Community volunteers added a new coat of paint to the Taylors Falls Public Library, which is on the National Record or Historic Places. Paint for the project was donated by Valspar through its “Minnesota Beautiful” partnership with the Initiative Foundation. Valspar, a Minnesota-based company, donates thousands of gallons of quality coatings to nonprofits and communities each year.

SHERBURNE COUNTY

Public Painting

3RD QUARTER 2013

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3RD QUARTER 2013

Business

Forums for Change Anderson Center offers an engaging brand of leadership and management training. By Gene Rebeck | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

The phrase “leadership and management training” often conjures images of endless PowerPoint slides, fictitious scenarios about Bob and Jane and participants checking their phones. But when you walk into an Anderson Center Forum, those cliches are replaced by the banter of engaged leaders candidly sharing not only their successes but also their challenges. More than 200 leaders, representing the diversity business and nonprofit sectors in Greater Minnesota, have attended the multi-day forums since 2011. Tables are arranged in a “U”—with a discussion leader sitting in the middle—so that attendees can face each other when they analyze and discuss the case studies of real organizations. There’s no lecturing. The discussion leader facilitates a conversation, challenges the participants and encourages them to interact with each other to arrive at the key learning points. Learning how other companies navigate change in their business and marketplace is why Mick Pickens, president of Royal Tire, Inc., a St. Cloud-based business that operates tire stores for consumers and fleet operators, and other Royal Tire executives began attending executive education forums at the Anderson Center six years ago. “We sit here and try to make decisions that are in the best interests of the company,” he said. “But you do it in a vacuum sometimes—you know only what you know.” What you don’t know is often what matters. “The pace of change in the world continues to increase,” said Rick Bauerly, a managing partner at Granite Equity, a St. Cloud-based private investment firm, and the Anderson Center’s executive director. The reasons for that change are increasingly familiar, and they aren’t solely affecting organizations in major cities. Continued on page 12

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Royal Tire’s Mick Pickens: “The expectation is that we need to grow. And to do that we need a good strategic plan.”

3RD QUARTER 2013

“We think it’s important to come alongside business leaders and provide the best tools to achieve success for their companies, which allows communities and families to achieve success as well.”

At Royal Tire, the action plan “Business leaders today lead increasingly centered around “transitioning from heterogeneous companies,” he added. “It being a smaller company into a larger becomes more important to invest in one,” according to Pickens. “Our owners our own leadership effectiveness and in leave all the money in the company, so our own knowledge.” the expectation on me and the company is Located in St. Cloud, the Anderson that we need to grow. And to do that, we Center was founded in 1998 through an need a good strategic plan.” endowment from the family that owns Though Bauerly said that the and operates Anderson Trucking Service. Anderson Center’s costs are at least 20 It began as the Anderson Entrepreneurial —KATHY GAALSWYK, PRESIDENT OF THE INTIATIVE FOUNDATION percent lower than those of executive Center. Five years after its inception, AND AN ANDERSON CENTER BOARD MEMBER education programs conducted at Twin the center saw a larger opportunity—to Cities universities, many small business provide executive education to leaders leaders find even the Anderson Center’s tuition more than they can of established businesses and organizations outside of the Twin cover. As an economic development investment in Greater Minnesota, Cities. The center offers 18 forums each year, ranging from three to the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations offer scholarships. “Growth five days, at various locations in Greater Minnesota. and expansion of business requires leaders to know themselves as The key to the success of the Anderson Center Forums is based well as they know their companies,” said Kathy Gaalswyk, president on three factors, according to Venita Wilkes, the organization’s forum of the Initiative Foundation and an Anderson Center board member. director: 1.) A diverse cohort, made up of leaders from a variety “We think it’s important to come alongside business leaders and of industries who are willing to share their stories; 2.) A certified provide the best tools to achieve success for their companies, which discussion leader who is an expert in the field and is trained to allows communities and families to achieve success as well.” facilitate discussion and learning; 3.) And case studies, application exercises, role plays and simulations that help participants apply It’s an investment that pays off for the entire community. “The what they’ve learned. “The participants leave a forum with an action Anderson Center facilitates economic progress one leader at a time plan, enthusiasm for change and a peer network they can reach out in Greater Minnesota,” said Bauerly. “Those organizations often to when further discussion is needed,” said Wilkes. “The learning have a profound impact in their communities and in the fabric of continues well beyond the forum.” the economy.”

Anderson Center’s 3 top forums

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Executive Forum Designed to increase the effectiveness of leaders of established organizations and help them develop new ways of thinking.

Leadership Forum For organizational leaders seeking to gain the confidence of their employees and to build processes for improvement.

Governance Forum For board leaders, members and advisors hoping to enhance their skills and abilities and those of the boards they serve.

3RD QUARTER 2013

Philanthropy

Lasting Wishes Wills and funds unite to serve donors and the causes that inspire them.

By Lawrence Schumacher

Scholarship Support: Beverly Pantzke Johnston worked with the Initiative Foundation to support scholarships to help college-bound Little Falls students.

There were three things Beverly Pantzke Johnston valued almost and included a bequest of just $100, the campaign reports, millions as much as her family—her hometown of Little Falls, higher more dollars would flow to charitable causes every year. education and the desire to give back to the community. Even To support scholarships that would help college-bound Little though Johnston never attended Falls students afford tuition, Johnston college, she wanted other Little Falls turned to her nephew, Tom Gates, who High School graduates to have the would become the executor of her chance she never did. estate after she died. She also consulted While 80 percent of Americans a lawyer and worked directly with the give to charities during their lifetime, Initiative Foundation. Johnston chose to become one of There are many ways for people only 8 percent of all people who who enjoy giving to charities to continue their support through a continue their legacy after they’ve charitable bequest after they’re gone. passed away, according to Matt Kilian, While many associate this type of Initiative Foundation vice president giving with people who can put for external relations. During their their names on buildings, a national lifetimes, however, donors may public awareness campaign called choose to establish a named fund “Leave a Legacy” begs to differ. If —MATT KILIAN, INTIATIVE FOUNDATION within a community foundation as a every adult in America made a will placeholder for future gifts. The fund

“You don’t have to cut your kids or grandkids out of your will in order to leave to charity. Wills are a way to continue your generosity and extend your values past your lifetime.”

Continued on page 16

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can have a broad charitable purpose or be designed to support specific charities. In the case of the Beverly M. Pantzke Johnston Scholarship Fund, Gates and his aunt worked with the foundation to establish the fund several years before she died. Johnston contributed to the fund annually, and additional money from her estate will be passed on to the fund. “A charitable fund is a good vehicle for ensuring that your money goes where you want it to go,” Kilian said. “You don’t have to cut your kids or grandkids out of your will in order to leave to

charity. Wills are a way to continue your generosity and extend your values past your lifetime.” If you are considering a charitable bequest in your will, Kilian said it is important to let the nonprofit know in advance so they can assume a role in making sure your wishes are carried out. This kind of planning paid off for Johnston, who passed away in the spring of 2013. “If there’s a saving grace for this country, it’s keeping our kids educated,” said Gates, who added that he sees his aunt’s legacy in the Little Falls scholarships. “Beverly believed that.”

THE BASICS OF BEQUESTS Most people have been positively impacted by the work of charities, churches, schools or foundations. Making a charitable bequest in a will, which can be changed at any time, is often the easiest and least expensive way to help sustain these acts of kindness for future generations. A charitable bequest is simply a distribution from an estate to a charity through a last will and testament. A person’s estate is the sum of their assets, including property, insurance policies, retirement accounts, cash, etc. Many believe they should leave their entire estate to their children and relatives, but charities can play a significant role in estate planning. Financial advisors and attorneys can explain how leaving a gift to charity may actually reduce the estate tax burden on loved ones.

GENERAL BEQUEST A dollar amount, a particular asset or a percentage of an estate.

SPECIFIC BEQUEST A particular item or asset to be used for a specific purpose or program.

RESIDUARY BEQUEST Whatever remains after other terms of the will have been satisfied.

CONTINGENCY BEQUESTS Leaving assets only if a named beneficiary does not survive you.

If you decide to include a charity in your will, be sure to list its correct legal name and location in the bequest language. It’s also a good idea to inform the nonprofit organization of your intentions and provide a copy of your will. This will help ensure that your final wishes are carried out. Sources: Leave a Legacy, Initiative Foundation

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3RD QUARTER 2013

Community

RANDALL ROWSERS: Tim Koenig and his team have made Bermel’s Shoes one of the state’s top destinations for Red Wing boots.

Small Town, Big Plans Randall residents are working to put the community back on the map. By Elizabeth Foy Larsen | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

When it opened in 1920, the Randall Creamery was the first building as young people increasingly leave their hometowns to seek work in this town on the banks of the Little Elk River to have indoor opportunities in cities, only 15 percent of the U.S. population lives plumbing. That meant in addition in rural counties, according to the U.S. to processing milk, cream and butter, Census Bureau. That’s down from 36 the creamery was a place where local percent in 1950. “The main highway farmers and townsmen could spend 10 used to go right through Randall, but cents to get a hot shower. The second when it moved outside of town, it also floor ballroom was a gathering spot for changed the path of the community’s the entire community, who used it for future,” said Dan Frank, senior community suppers, plays and church program manager for community and functions. economic development at the Initiative After the Creamery closed in the Foundation. “Today, local people are early 1970s, the brick building went —DAN FRANK, INTIATIVE FOUNDATION working to reinvent their business vacant and unintentionally became district, keep their elementary school a symbol of the challenges faced by and attract housing for young families.” many towns across central Minnesota and rural America. Today, That’s not the fate this hardworking town of 650 residents

“The main highway used to go right through Randall, but when it moved outside of town, it also changed the path of the community’s future.”

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Community Makeover

eight miles from Camp Ripley envisioned. So in 2010, a group of community volunteers got together and talked about what they could do to keep Randall economically and culturally vital. “Because we are the grocery store, people come in and talk about what’s good and bad in town,” said Lori Mueller, who owns Gosch’s grocery, with her husband Denny. “We were hearing a lot of frustration about there not being enough for our kids to do. We need young people to help this community grow.” Without a strong community, local businesses owners also knew they couldn’t operate stable businesses. The group, which also includes city council members and city administrators, was the first to take part in the Initiative Foundation’s Thriving Communities Initiative. “We work with a core group of citizens to create a common vision for a community and then mobilize the communities assets, including volunteers, to carry out that vision,” Frank said. “This takes lots of citizen engagement, careful planning, raising funds and then concerted action over a period of years to achieve results.” In their work with the Initiative Foundation and the Minnesota Design Team—a nonprofit organization that helps communities enhance their unique sense of place—Randall came up with a wish list of community improvements and identified several strengths the town could build on, including the proximity to both Camp Ripley, which employs 800 people, and Highway 10—a major thoroughfare between the Twin Cities and the Brainerd Lakes region. “We needed to slow those cars down from going 65 miles an hour and get them to stop here,” said Denny Mueller. To do that, the town invested in billboards where local businesses can advertise. They draw business not only to Gosch’s—known across the region for their “brat of the week” specials—but also Bermel’s Shoes, which is one of the state’s top destinations for Red Wing boots. A project called iRandall has boosted the town’s digital

BY GOSCH: Lori and Denny Mueller own and operate Randall’s popular grocery store. profile, so that if someone driving along Highway 10 is looking for a cup of coffee, they know they have options in Randall. These efforts have not only bolstered the town’s businesses but also its spirit. “There’s a general sense of camaraderie,” said Tim Koenig, who bought Bermel’s Shoes from his parents in 2005. “Everyone has come together and we’re slowly getting some young folks.” In fact, Randall’s last community dinner drew over 150 people and the Randall Area Business Group, which started in 2010 with 12 paying members, now has 40 on its roster. The lights are back on at the Randall Creamery, too. Purchased in 2011 by Iraq War veteran Linda Thesing and her daughter Janelle Johnson, The Old Creamery Quilt Shop has been extensively renovated and sells not only quilting supplies but also coffee and pastries. Offices on the second floor include photography and massage studios and the ballroom is rented out for meetings and events like bridal showers. “It’s brought business through Randall,” said Thesing. “It’s a lot of fun to be part of a small community.”

Randall’s improvements include: EMERGENCY SIREN

Having survived a nearmiss tornado, Randall prioritized a new emergency siren system that is loud enough for residents to hear and is wired into Morrison County’s central emergency system.

YOUTH INVOLVEMENT

A mentoring program encourages high school students to teach computer literacy skills to seniors. New recreational activities for young people include community clean-up days, musicin-the-parks and a Frisbee golf course.

LIVING HISTORY

An electronic picture frame project in local businesses shows images of historic Randall, which spark multi-generational conversations about the town’s history and future.

A NEW PATH

A planned extension of the Camp Ripley Veteran’s State Trail will provide more recreation options for residents and bring out-of-town bikers, snowmobilers and hikers into town.

3RD QUARTER 2013

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VISTA members fight poverty by fortifying organizations from the inside out.

22 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

extra

STRENGTH By Laura Billings Coleman | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

When the temperatures start to drop, many lowincome families in central Minnesota begin a season of cold calculations. “For a lot of people the question comes down to, ‘Do we heat, or do we eat?,’” said Jason Edens, executive director of the Rural Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL), a Pine River nonprofit working to promote solar energy as a partial solution for the more than 550,000 Minnesota households that qualify for energy assistance. In fact, planning for how to pay for a winter’s worth of heating bills can be a year-round worry for the estimated 11.2 percent of central Minnesotans who live in poverty. “A lot of low-income people in this part of Minnesota live in mobile homes, and most of them don’t have an attic that you can insulate,” said Edens. Outfitting just 10 percent of the 155,000 households that benefited from the $109 million in energy assistance funds Minnesota gave to low-income families last year could eventually help save the state more than $10 million every season, according to RREAL’s estimates.

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Exploring the solar heating options best suited to Minnesota’s more than 93,000 mobile homes seemed an impossible task for the still new nonprofit, which has a small staff, limited budget and a list of more than 400 households currently waiting for solar assistance. That’s why RREAL assigned the project to Adam Kuthart, a freshlyminted master’s program graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, who moved to central Minnesota from his hometown of Seattle, Washington. Working for a monthly stipend of just over $900 a month—a salary that would qualify him for energy assistance—the 31-year-old solar energy engineer has studied full-time the feasibility of offering solar heating systems as a self-reliant solution for fuel-challenged families in mobile homes. “Adam has really done a great job of moving us toward being able to offer this technology to a lot of households that need the help,” said Edens, who notes that about 10 percent of the clients RREAL serves live in manufactured homes. “We wouldn’t be where we are now without him.” Kuthart is a member of VISTA— Volunteers in Service to America—a federal program aimed at relieving poverty by building nonprofit capacity and economic sustainability in communities across the U.S. “People often describe VISTA as the domestic Peace Corps,” said Chris Fastner, the program manager for VISTA and organizational development at the Initiative Foundation, which has coordinated the program in central Minnesota for the last decade. Each year, 15 to 20 VISTA members serve nonprofit host sites across the region, not as temporary employees but as big-picture project managers charged with building the capacity of the organizations they serve. “VISTAs don’t provide direct services to clients, or fill staffing gaps for nonprofits,” Fastner said. “Instead, the VISTA is meant 24 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

to leave a legacy for the organization that allows it to do its work better.” Founded in 1965 as part of the “War on Poverty,” VISTA provides its member a

Lasting Legacy: VISTA member Adam Kuthart studies the feasibility of offering solar energy to central Minnesotans living in mobile homes.

monthly living allowance set at 105 percent of the poverty level and several other benefits that enable individuals to serve. But in spite of the tough benefits package (“Your pay will be low; the conditions of your labor often will be difficult,” President Lyndon Johnson promised recruits 50 years ago), VISTA has become an important proving ground for the next generation of nonprofit leaders and an appealing public service call for mid-career and retired professionals looking for a way to make a difference. “It’s the best kept secret in our country in terms of what VISTA does for communities,” said Jaime Renner, state program specialist for the Corporation for National and Community Service, which

Since 2000, 159 VISTA members in the 14-county Initiative Foundation region have served 70 host sites across Central Minnesota. Collectively they have … • Mobilized more than 7,800 community volunteers. • Raised more than $2.2 million in cash revenue. • Generated more than $1.3 million in donations and in-kind contributions.

“VISTAs don’t fill staffing gaps . . . VISTA is meant to leave a legacy for the organization that allows it to do its work better.” Chris Fastner, Program Manager for VISTA and Organizational Development at the Initiative Foundation

oversees the Americorps VISTA program. In 2012, more than 340 VISTA members served 170 nonprofits across the state, helping to recruit more than 41,000 volunteers who contributed more than 307,000 hours toward anti-poverty efforts. VISTA member projects also helped to leverage cash or grants of about $4.7 million and about $700,000 in-kind contributions for the state. In the Initiative Foundation region, the results have been just as impressive. Since 2000, 159 VISTA members have served 70 host sites across central Minnesota mobilizing over 7,800 community volunteers, raising more than $2.2 million in cash resources and more than $1.3 in donations and in-kind contributions. Here’s a look at how three area nonprofits are putting the VISTA program to work:

A Place for You A Place for You, a new homeless shelter in Pine City, had yet to open its doors when its first VISTA member reported for her first day of duty in August 2012. “We had a pretty unique situation,” said executive

director Kala Roberts, who says the VISTA started service a full month before the newly formed nonprofit board hired the rest of the staff. The importance of being a self-starter is one of the lessons VISTA coordinator Fastner tries to impart in the monthly professional development training sessions the Initiative Foundation sponsors for the region’s VISTA members. Within two months, the VISTA had mobilized a corps of community volunteers trained to welcome up to ten men and women to this temporary shelter housed in a former Allina clinic. She also identified transportation as another hurdle for adults struggling to find stable housing, and drafted additional volunteers to drive A Place For You’s clients to appointments and job interviews. “There is flexibility, so if you see something in the organization that could work more smoothly, as a VISTA you’re encouraged to make it happen as long as it’s within the scope of your original plan,” said Josey Bain, who became the nonprofit’s second VISTA last August. Raised in nearby Hinckley, Bain is leveraging her own community connections to create a

Josey Bain: “If you see something that could work more smoothly, as a VISTA you are encouraged to make it happen as long as it’s within the scope of your original plan.”

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Win-Win-Win: Northern Pines Mental Health Clinic VISTAs Joshua Lamb and Betsy Huston.

mentor program designed to support client transitions to more permanent housing in Pine, Isanti, Kanabec, Chisago, Mille Lacs and Carleton counties. Like most VISTAs, Bain has found the work to be both challenging and rewarding. But she’s grateful for her predecessor’s advice for staying sane during what can be a demanding year of public service: “When you’re feeling stressed out and overwhelmed, just remember that what you’re doing really is helping people.”

Northern Pines Mental Health Clinic Missed appointments are a chronic problem for mental health care providers—even more so in rural areas where transportation can be another barrier to treatment. When the Northern Pines Mental Health Clinic 26 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

applied to become a VISTA host site, they thought a volunteer driving corps that could bring low-income patients to appointments was a perfect solution to this challenge. Very quickly into the project, they realized that coordinating volunteer drivers had its own set of challenges. “It made more sense to hire their clients to be the drivers,” said Fastner. Northern Pines’ program has expanded to serve people throughout the community, providing more than 1,900 rides last year to Northern Pines patients and others who need help getting to appointments with dentists, physicians and other providers. “There’s a lot of stigma attached to mental health issues, and not being able to get the treatment people need is a really serious problem,” said VISTA member Joshua Lamb, who now serves with a transportation

VISTA Viewpoints VISTA members help build organizational, program and financial capacity to house the homeless, feed the hungry, educate disadvantaged students, support senior independent living, and otherwise assist people in overcoming their struggles with poverty. For nonprofit or government agencies interested in HOSTING A VISTA MEMBER: VISTA members are able to focus their efforts and help build organizational, administrative and financial capacity to fight illiteracy, improve health services, foster economic development or assist lowincome communities. Organizations must submit project plans and be prepared to invest supervision time and $2,500 for the first year. 2014 PROjeCT APPlICATIOnS Due: January 30 SITe SeleCTIOn: February 12 START OF VISTA SeRVICe: July/August

program that counts 20 vehicles and 16 drivers drawn from Northern Pines’ own pool of low-income clients. Daryl Moon, Northern Pines’ Director of Resource Opportunities, credits the energy and enthusiasm of VISTAs like Lamb with creating a program that has exceeded the nonprofit’s original expectations. Moon says more patients are making it to their appointments, client drivers are earning income, independence and the therapeutic benefits of having a job. They’re also providing transportation contracts to others in the community, which has the potential to grow into a sustainable source of revenue for Northern Pines long after the VISTA members who contributed to the project move on. “It’s become a win-winwin program for us,” said Moon. The VISTA program has also been a

For those interested in VISTA SERVICE: VISTA members create or expand programs designed to bring individuals and communities out of poverty. Applicants must be 18 or older and willing to serve full-time for at least one year. Benefits include a monthly living allowance, training, medical coverage, child care assistance and an end-of-service educational award of $5,550 or cash award of $1,500. SOME PROJECT EXAMPLES: • Expand the volunteer base of a food shelf so it can meet increased demand. • Recruit adults to mentor youth and support them on the road to adulthood. • Create an outreach campaign encouraging parents to enroll children in early childhood programs so their toddlers are school-ready by kindergarten. • Develop processes and programs to enlist law students to provide free legal services to disadvantaged individuals and families. CONTACT: Amanda Whittemore, Initiative Foundation (320) 631-2009 | ifound.org Sources: Initiative Foundation, Corporation for National & Community Service (www.nationalservice.gov)

win-win-win for VISTA member Betsy Huston, a retired teacher from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who moved to central Minnesota two years ago to help Northern Pines launch another capacity-building project, “Operation Invisible Wounds,” an effort aimed at connecting returning veterans with the mental health care and treatment they’re entitled to. “I knew I wasn’t done yet,” said Huston, who jokes that at the age of 58 she wanted to “run away from my kids,” but not so far that she couldn’t bring her dog along for the ride. Mid-career and retired professionals like Huston have been a growing presence among VISTA members, especially in rural areas in the Initiative Foundation region. “I think I went into this hoping that I could make a difference and help people, but you end up personally getting so much more out

“I think I went into this hoping that I could make a difference and help people, but you end up personally getting so much more out of it.” BETSY HUSTON

Continued on page 48 3RD QUARTER 2013

Safe Science Economic growth can happen anywhere, even in a Petri dish.

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By Lawrence Schumacher

DEEP ROOTS St. Cloud entrepreneur and real estate developer Bob Coborn started Microbiologics in 1971 as a water testing company. In 1983, the company started freeze-drying bacteria, a process that allowed them to travel farther to laboratories than was then possible. By 1998, Microbiologics was specializing in the biomaterial business, a focus it retains today. Brad Goskowicz became CEO in 2009, following Microbiologics’ 2008 acquisition by Granite Equity Partners, a St. Cloud-based investment firm that invests in established local companies. The Initiative Foundation provided equity financing as a part of the deal. At the same time, Microbiologics acquired Gibson Labs in Lexington, Ky., as one of the first steps in the company’s new growth strategy. Other changes included the creation of a board of directors (on which Coborn still serves), hiring new executive talent and expanding their headquarters, made possible in part from capital financing from the Initiative Foundation. Throughout its history, Microbiologics has always attempted to create a “culture of innovation” among its employees that has served the company well. “You’re losing the best part of your employees if they just put in their hours and go home,” said Goskowicz.

Microbiologics

helping his family care for his mother, Shirley, who had been battling a cancerous brain tumor. But after Shirley suddenly died in 2008, Almer learned from the Minnesota Department of Health that it wasn’t the cancer that killed her. In fact, Shirley died from salmonella poisoning in a nationwide peanut butter contamination. “Some of the things I read about how food was handled made me infuriated that this is the way we do things here,” said Almer. Advocating for food safety issues, Almer traveled to Washington D.C. and around the country. But his mission eventually brought him back to central Minnesota, where he encountered Microbiologics, a St. Cloud-based company that’s doing quite a lot to improve food safety. “On my end, I’d only seen the tragedy of what happens when food safety is not there,” said Almer, who takes comfort in the fact that Microbiologics’ work means more families won’t experience what his family endured. Headquarted on the edge of St. Cloud’s downtown in a mostly residential neighborhood, Microbiologics has quietly advanced its mission of creating a “safer, healthier world” through production of microorganisms used to test the quality of food, water and the environment. The company’s growing impact on the local and regional economy and its increasing role on the national and international food safety stage is part of why it received the Initiative Foundation’s 2013 Outstanding Enterprise and Business Award. “Microbiologics is a solid example of

a company being a leader in the community, having a solid economic development impact and being a good skilled employment provider,” said Dan Bullert, the foundation’s business finance manager. “We also awarded the company a business loan to help them expand and add quality jobs. It’s been an extremely successful investment for both of us.”

St. Cloud

Five years ago, Savage resident Jeff Almer didn’t know much of anything about food safety. He was too busy

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Brad Goskowicz: “You’re losing the best part of your employees if they just put in their hours and go home.”

“Finding the right place for everyone and investing in their development, that’s the secret sauce.”

LOCAL GROWTH Retention and growth of locally owned companies is a major part of St. Cloud’s economic development strategy, and helping Microbiologics grow in its current location instead of relocating to an industrial park is a prime example of this priority, according to Mayor Dave Kleis. “The emphasis has to be on enabling current businesses to grow, especially homegrown businesses like Microbiologics that have an international presence,” he said. “Other cities all over the country are trying to attract the type of business we have right here in St. Cloud with Microbiologics.” Likewise, the sale to Granite Equity Partners—which seeks out locally-owned 30 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

companies with growth potential in order to foster them over the long-term— keeps the company’s profits in central Minnesota. Microbiologics was a good fit for the company’s mission, with a strong track record under Coborn’s leadership and opportunities for future growth with leadership from Goskowicz and board chair Bob White. “We feel like we’ve put a great band together and they’re just doing their thing,” said Rick Bauerly, a managing partner of the investment firm. “Microbiologics is a great example of a business that sells globally but produces and employs here in central Minnesota. That importing of wealth is why we got involved.” Since 2008, the company has grown its St. Cloud employment from 59 to 88 employees, and many of those positions are what Goskowicz calls “white coat” jobs that require a high degree of education and skill and pay high wages.

GLOBAL ACCLAIM Microbiologics does business in roughly 130 countries around the world, and nearly 50 percent of the company’s revenue comes from international markets, according to Goskowicz. That focus on food safety has positioned the company for growth and given it a unique niche in the global market. “Regulations are only going to get stronger, screening things more frequently and trying to figure out how to do it affordably on a global basis,” said Goskowicz. “Testing is going to be a huge part of it and we produce the control media for that testing, so it puts us in a good position.” That positioning, combined with strong local ties, allowed Microbiologics to partner with St. Cloud State University to bring an international Food Microbiology Symposium to the university in 2012 and 2013. International leaders in food safety

Cultures of Innovation Microbiologics’ products help laboratories across the world ensure that their test methods, materials, equipment and personnel are producing accurate results.

Proteus vulgaris: Proteus species are often associated with Urinary Tract Infections (UTI). A clinical laboratory would use this culture as a positive control for the test methods they use for diagnosing UTIs.

came to St. Cloud to discuss regulations, technology and new approaches to food safety. Events like these benefit both Microbiologics and St. Cloud State. “Had that partnership not existed, I’m not sure the conference would’ve been held in St. Cloud,” said Daniel D. Gregory, interim dean at the School of Science and Engineering.“It’s a symbiosis that goes back to at least 1998 and has resulted in a lot of good research projects that have helped faculty and students here over the years.” Goskowicz said he is excited about the opportunities for future projects that St. Cloud State’s new Integrated Science and Engineering Laboratory Facility offers, and notes that while Microbiologics recruits people from all over the country, it has also hired several St. Cloud State graduates.

NEW MARKETS Today, Microbiologics is expanding into a new market of devising tests for extremely harmful bacteria and viruses without needing live specimens on hand. “Our work will allow labs to use something safe to make sure their testing is working without bringing those volatile bugs and viruses around,” said Goskowicz. As for the company’s recently expanded headquarters? Goskowicz looks out from the window of his office at a green space next to the building and smiles. “A few more years and I think we’ll be expanding again,” he said. That’s a great comfort to people like Jeff Almer. “Meeting the people at Microbiologics gave me hope for food safety increasing,” he said. “They should be proud.”

Staphylococcus aureus: Staphylococcus species are often associated with skin infections as well as food poisoning. Clinical laboratories use cultures of Staphylococcus aureus from Microbiologics to verify their test methods and equipment are capable of detecting a Staph infection in a patient sample. Likewise, a food testing laboratory would use cultures of Staphylococcus aureus as a control to ensure they are able to detect contamination of this bacteria in a food sample or in their manufacturing environment.

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Angels Among Us Not all good deeds are recognized, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the way they like it.

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A child with autism gets the chance to go to a summer camp that’s designed especially for her needs. A middle schooler from Cass County spends time each week with a mentor, who was matched with him because they both love to play basketball. A single mother loses her job but is able to take her young children to a crisis nursery so that she can look for work. These people are forever connected by the generosity of Jim and Linnea Anderson. Not that the Andersons would ever tell you about their good deeds. While many philanthropists enjoy seeing their names associated with the charities they support, the Andersons prefer a lower profile. Much lower. “Jim and Linnea believe that giving is a privilege and a responsibility, and these beliefs are rooted in their Christian faith,” said Matt Kilian, vice president for external relations at the Initiative Foundation. “Their condition for accepting the 2013 Outstanding Generosity Award was that we at the Initiative Foundation promise to focus on the charitable organizations they support. If someone is looking for a quote from the Andersons about themselves, they’ll be hard-pressed to find one.” The Andersons have been married for 50 years and own Anderson Brothers Construction Company, a Brainerdbased contracting business that builds roads, driveways and all things related to commercial, municipal and residential infrastructure. If you can walk or drive on it, their company can do it. The recipients of the Andersons’ generosity are organizations that focus on families and children in need,

environmental preservation and economic development. In 2004, Jim and Linnea partnered with the Initiative Foundation to establish the Anderson Brothers Family Foundation to formalize their giving and leave a legacy in Brainerd Lakes Area communities. The fund is permanently invested, and only a portion of the annual earnings are awarded as grants. These grants will continue to flow for generations to come. “They made a decision to honor their family and company by giving back to the community,” said Kilian. “This is true philanthropy— generosity with a purpose.” Anonymity was also important to the Andersons, so the Initiative Foundation often makes contributions on their behalf. “Many charities are shocked when they receive the checks in the mail, and they have no idea who the gifts are coming from,” Kilian added. “For Jim and Linnea, I think that’s part of the fun and the purity of giving for giving’s sake.”

Jim & Linnea Anderson

Brainerd

By Maria Surma Manka | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

ABOVE AND BEYOND The Andersons are long-standing financial supporters and volunteers of Camp Knutson, a program of Lutheran Social Services that provides summer camp experiences for children with autism, skin disease, heart disease, Down syndrome and families affected by HIV/AIDS. “Linnea and Jim have really gone above and beyond what is expected of a typical volunteer,” said Rob Larson, Camp Knutson executive director. “For instance, Linnea came across an iPad app that helps kids with autism better express their emotions. She told me about this and helped us

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purchase two iPads for camp, which has been fantastic.” The Andersons’ preference to stay out of the spotlight is well-known, even to the recipients of their donations: “Jim and Linnea may not like me to say this, but they are humble,” said Larson. “They don’t always want attention, but they help us bring more kids to camp to have an experience that wouldn’t be possible without the support of people like them.” The Andersons also support Kinship Partners of Brainerd, a youth mentoring program that matches children with adult volunteers who serve as positive role models. Their giving has often made the difference at a time when the organization was facing challenges. “Donations from the Andersons and the Anderson Brothers Family Foundation can go towards staff, 34 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

which is the most important part of who we are,” said David Downing, the executive director of Kinship Partners. “We never count on or assume donations, but Jim and Linnea are the kind of people that are going to be there when there needs to be support to keep our program going.” Bridges of Hope is another organization championed by the Andersons. The faith-based charity links families in need with community resources that can help with challenges like joblessness, financial hardship or crisis nursery services. Jana Shogren heads the organization and echoed Larson and Downing’s deep appreciation of the Andersons’ generosity. “We have never had to turn away someone because of lack of funds, and that’s thanks to the commitment of people like Jim and Linnea,” said Shogren. “They allow us to

connect more families with resources that can help.”

PROFESSIONAL PRIORITIES When someone talks about the Andersons’ commitment to community and philanthropy, it can be difficult to distinguish whether that person is from the nonprofit sector or an employee of Anderson Brothers Construction. There is little, if any, separation between the values demonstrated in the different facets of the Andersons’ lives. Anderson Brothers Construction was founded in 1940 by brothers John and Arthur Anderson, and today its main services include earthwork, underground utility, aggregate mining and processing, asphalt paving and concrete. John passed away in 1957 and when Arthur died in

1964, Jim returned from college to assist his mother with running the business, along with the help of a company engineer and supervisor/equipment mechanic. The Anderson Brothers Family Foundation merges the family’s and company’s values. “The company legacy and history of the company are paramount to Jim and Linnea,” said Terry McFarlin, president and CEO of Anderson Brothers Construction. “They don’t forget how other people have helped them, and they make sure all of us who work here don’t forget about the people and things that were done ahead of us.” To that end, the Andersons recently completed an unconventional succession plan that provides an opportunity for current employees to become involved in ownership. As one company leader retires, another can move up to fill the vacancy. This plan extends company leadership to employees, rather than outside entities. The company has also been a vehicle— literally—for getting the word out about the nonprofit services in the community. A different organization’s logo is selected each year to be featured on a company truck. That advertising was a boost for Kinship Partners. “It was a mobile billboard for the

organization,” said Downing. “The truck was out there working every day, reminding people that there’s a need for mentors and donors. And an employee volunteered to drive the truck in a local parade. So it’s not just Jim and Linnea, but the employees of Anderson Brothers who are donating their time.” The Andersons make sure that employees know about the nonprofit resources in the community, including the services provided by Bridges of Hope. “You just never know what somebody in your workplace may be facing,” said Shogren. “So it’s important to look at both sides of it. It’s not only about financially supporting the work, but also about getting the word out and Anderson Brothers has been a partner in that.” That deep concern for others— whether it’s a nonprofit organization or employees—is noted again and again by those who know the Andersons and who have benefited from their generosity of money, time and attention. “They give without any expectation of recognition,” said Shogren. “I think that says something about who they are. They don’t want the light to shine on them. They want the light to shine on the work and they want the good work to be done.”

“THEY GIVE without any expectation of recognition. I think that says something about WHO THEY ARE. They don’t want the light to shine on them. They want the LIGHT TO SHINE ON THE WORK and they want the good work to be done.”

HELPING PEOPLE: Merging family and company values.

—JANA SHOGREN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BRIDGES OF HOPE

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Home Work

The local career and the local economy. The high school class and the college course. The will-do student and the can-do business. Finally, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all connected.

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Like many high school seniors, Ted Abear didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life after he graduated from Crosby-Ironton High School in 2007. Unfortunately, the normal teenage confusion he and his classmates felt was compounded by a belief that they’d have to leave their hometowns, perhaps forever, to establish careers. “There is a perception that once a kid gets out of high school and earns a secondary degree, he or she needs to go down to the metro area to make a good living and start a family,” said Steve Razidlo, superintendent of Brainerd public schools. That demographic trend, known as “bright flight” or “brain drain,” worries regional leaders and business owners, who are concerned about riding out the economic storm that will be created by the mass retirements of the nation’s Baby Boomers. The question is: How can central Minnesota attract and retain local talent? One answer is Bridges Workplace Connection, a program designed to connect high school students with local employers through workplace tours, job shadows, internships, speakers, immersion camps, specialized skills training courses and an annual Career Exploration Day. Bridges—and its sister workskills training program, Bridges Career Academies—was created by Brainerd area leaders who were concerned that the economic health of the region may falter if young people don’t take advantage of the many job opportunities, including highskill, high wage jobs, that exist in their own communities. “I know employers in the Brainerd Lakes area who tell me they could

hire a dozen skilled workers right now at $40,000 a year,” said Don Hickman, the vice president for community and economic development at the Initiative Foundation. “And in five years or so, there will be even more jobs available.” If the region’s skilled young workers continue the trend of urban migration, “we are going to see even more dramatic gaps where there aren’t adequate numbers of skilled workers in our towns to fill the available jobs.” Bringing young people up to speed on the region’s wealth of employment opportunities is a responsibility that Bridges organizers take seriously, even if that means a bit of re-education. “This area is known for its tourism industry,” said Mary Gottsch, Bridges director. “That industry remains incredibly vibrant and strong, but over the last 20 to 30 years, the economy has diversified. Today, there are hundreds of jobs available in healthcare and manufacturing.”

Bridges Workplace Connection

Brainerd

By Andy Steiner | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

SEEKING SOLUTIONS The idea for Bridges was born in the mid2000s, as talk of a looming worker shortage began to dominate conversations in business board rooms, school board meetings and Chamber of Commerce breakfasts. If young, skilled workers continued to flee for urban communities, would employers look to start up or expand elsewhere? When reductions in federally funded school-towork programs were announced, Brainerd Lakes Area leaders, including Razidlo, Gottsch and Brainerd Chamber CEO Lisa Paxton, decided that action was needed. The group scheduled community meetings on the issue and received an

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“There is a PERCEPTION that once a kid gets out of high school and earns a secondary degree, he or she needs to go down to the metro area to make a good living and start a family.” —STEVE RAZIDLO, SUPERINTENDENT OF BRAINERD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

THE QUESTION IS: How can central Minnesota attract and retain local talent?

Twyla Flaws: “Clow Stamping is growing and we constantly have to find workers. We believe in Bridges because we have seen the direct benefits of it.”

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Initiative Foundation grant to research communities that were successfully retaining their young workers. They identified a program in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that connected young workers with local employers, and they wanted to find out more. After two days of tours and conversation, the group returned home with an ambitious plan for a local program to educate young people about the range of high-skill, high-wage career opportunities while gaining the specialized skills needed to land the choice jobs.

DRIVEN BY BUSINESS Brainerd Lakes Area business leaders form the core of the Bridges leadership team. Twyla Flaws, personnel manager at Merrifield-based manufacturer Clow Stamping Company, serves as board chair. She’s also vice-chair of Governor Mark Dayton’s Workforce Development Council. Her company employs more than 400, so she sees the program as an investment in “self-defense.” “We’re growing. I constantly have to find workers, and they’re not easy to come by,” she said. “Bridges graduates have come to work for Clow Stamping, and we believe in the program because we have seen the direct benefits of it.” This challenge is compounded by the fact that manufacturing jobs like those at Clow Stamping require specialized skills. “When I was young, if you graduated from high school without a clear career plan, you could walk down to the local factory and they’d have work,” said Hickman. “That’s not the case any more. Most manufacturers tend to be high-tech, with special technical skills required to do the job.” With a goal of giving their program’s graduates a leg up in the working world, Bridges partnered with Brainerd’s Central Lakes College (CLC). The college now offers full credits for students completing selected Career Academy courses in high school, shortening the time needed between graduation and full-time work. “It’s a great partnership because we have education and business working hand-inhand together,” said Betsy Piccano, CLC’s director of secondary relations. The courses are geared to meet student and employer needs, and many complete their degree locally at CLC.

Another standout element of the Bridges program is its annual Career Exploration Day, an event where more than 2,000 students from 24 school districts come together to learn about available jobs and what it takes to do them. The large-scale event is organized by 13 career clusters, from marketing and education to healthcare and agriculture. Students visit the clusters that most appeal to them, speaking with employers and educators about job opportunities and education requirements. “Some of these kids have never really given life after high school any serious thought,” said Gottsch. “The event gets them thinking about their options.”

IN THE BANK One of the students who benefitted from Career Exploration Day was Ted Abear. After the event, he investigated a career

Ted Abear: “Bridges gave me the opportunity to see that working at a bank was more than just handing out money.”

in law enforcement, signing up for a job shadow opportunity with the Deerwood chief of police. “I rode along with him for four hours and decided it wasn’t my cup of tea,” he said. “I’m really glad I had that experience because I could have wasted a couple of years in college.” That illustrative experience persuaded Abear to sign up for other Bridges career exploration opportunities, including job shadows at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby and Deerwood Bank in Baxter. After following a loan officer through a day’s work at the bank, Abear was sold. “I had an opportunity to see that working at a bank was more than just handing out money,” he said. “From there, my career path was clear.” After graduation, Abear went to St. Cloud State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in finance in less than

four years, thanks to 25 college credits earned while in high school. And because of relationships formed during his highschool job shadow experience, Abear landed a teller job at the bank’s Deerwood branch during the summer before his senior year at St. Cloud State. When he graduated, there was a job waiting for him. “My graduation was held on a Sunday, and I was at work at the bank at 8 a.m. the next day,” he said. Abear, a hometown guy who loves to fish and hunt, added that this was exactly how he envisioned his life after college. Now a commercial credit analyst at the bank’s Baxter branch, he and his wife bought their first home midway between Crosby and Deerwood. Abear wants to spend his life in the area and thanks Bridges for making it possible. “I’m where I want to be,” he said. “And I’m doing the work I want to do. Bridges helped me get here.”

Participating Schools 24 schools from the Carl Perkins Central Lakes Consortium participate in the Bridges program. They are: Aitkin Bertha-Hewitt Brainerd Browerville Crosby-Ironton Eagle Valley Freshwater District Henning Isle Little Falls Long Prairie-Grey Eagle Menahga

Onamia Pequot Lakes Pierz Pillager Pine River-Backus Sebeka Staples-Motley Swanville Upsala Verndale Wadena-Deer Creek Connection High School

Bridges to Everywhere Bridges Workplace Connection offers a wide variety of ways for students to explore career opportunities. Those options include: • • • • • • •

Bridges Career Exploration Day Group Job Shadows Business Tours Immersion Camps Speakers in the Classroom Career Videos/ Teachers Resource Guide Educator in the Workplace

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a story about volunteer spirit and a little thrift store that could.

Community CENTERED

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By Elizabeth Foy Larsen | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

thanks,” the 24-year-old thrift store in the heart of town logs an astonishing 21,000 volunteer hours each year. Hardworking teams socialize while they sort, clean, price and sell the seemingly endless inventory of anything from women’s shoes to paperback novels to Christmas tree ornaments. “Tusen Tack belongs to everybody,” said Dorothy Johnson, a former member of the Tusen Tack board of directors, which uses the shop’s proceeds to fund anything from the city’s food shelf to hospice programs. “Nobody owns it and all the profits go back into the community.” While their accomplishments are impressive by any measure, the true grit of Tusen Tack can be seen down the road, where painters and carpenters are working on the finishing touches of the Braham Area Community Center. At the corner of Isanti, Kanabec, Pine and Chisago Counties, the center was financed largely by the work of volunteers who have been fighting to ensure that their city of 1,800 remains a place families want to call home.

POTATOES AND PIES Incorporated in 1899, Braham was settled by Swedish immigrants. “Legend has it that the town’s founders wanted their new home on the prairie to be called Abraham.” So it goes, the name was already taken and they shortened it to Braham. Braham thrived for decades as a farming community, with farm-related businesses, including a factory that manufactured potato-digging

machines. It also built a reputation as a place where people traveling on Highway 65 between the Twin Cities and Duluth could stop for pies. The pies were such a draw that in 1990 Governor Perpich proclaimed Braham as the “Homemade Pie Capital of Minnesota.” That designation spurred the success of a beloved tradition, now known as Pie Day. Held on the first Friday of every August, the all-volunteer event draws over 6,000 people to the town’s Freedom Park to not just sample the town’s best know food but also compete in pie baking contests, enjoy live music and shop at food and craft vendors. The town also hosts a Santa Day every December, where kids from all four neighboring counties line up to get their picture taken with Mr. and Mr. Claus.

Braham Minnesota

If there’s one thing the residents of Braham have learned, it’s not to underestimate the ladies who run Tusen Tack. Swedish for “thousand

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Building Our Dream: A model of the Braham Area Community Center (right) greets Tusen Tack shoppers.

The volunteer-run event, where local pastors wash the dishes, includes a waffle brunch and performances by local church choirs. Proceeds go to various community organizations. While these annual traditions showcase the community’s familyoriented, pitch-in spirit, they alone don’t account for the fact that unlike many of its small town counterparts, Braham is surviving. “The draw of Braham is the small town atmosphere,” said Sally Hoy, the city administrator. “People know each other but it’s also big enough to have a local police department, fire department, several churches, nice schools and a lot of volunteer opportunities.”

TOUGH TIMES Part of the town’s resilience comes from the fact that its excellent schools and qualified workers attract businesses, including East Central Energy, an electrical cooperative that serves 4,300 square miles and employs 160 people—100 of whom 42 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

work in Braham. “We’re very happy with the workforce we’ve gotten, particularly from folks right in this area,” said Steve Shurts, CEO of East Central Energy and an Initiative Foundation trustee. “It’s a wonderful area to live and work in, and I would hope to see it grow more.” Still, the town has faced many challenges. In addition to a lack of manufactur ing , deter iorating infrastructure and an aging population, Braham lost $300,000 of Local Government Aid (LGA) between 2003 and 2010. Prior to the cuts, LGA made up 50 percent of the town’s operating revenues. “We hit rock bottom in 2008,” said Hoy. “Budgets had to be cut, services cut back, and improvement projects stopped cold, including street improvements. Seven percent of our houses were in foreclosure, and delinquent property taxes went from $800 in 2002 to $10,000 in 2008, and $20,000 in 2009. Our water and sewer revenues declined because empty houses don’t use water.”

Still, the town carried on, with all public employees taking a five percent pay cut so that no one would have to be laid off. They also participated in the Initiative Foundation’s Thriving Communities Partnership and received $34,150 in grants to help them to rebrand and improve their community.

BOUNCING BACK Through a partnership with the Initiative Foundation, the community identified three goals to revitalize their city: Bring back a grocery store to downtown; provide more outdoor recreational opportunities for young people; and build a community center. Today, all three goals are well on their way to being met. Main Street Market & Deli opened in 2007. And thanks to the work of the Braham Area Committee For Kids (B.A.C.K.), the town is raising funds to improve their football, baseball and softball fields. They’re also hoping to build an outdoor track so that runners don’t have to travel to Rush City to practice.

The crown jewel in these efforts is the Braham Area Community Center, which will open its doors this December and focus on programs for seniors and the area’s youth, who currently don’t have a lot of options for after school activities. The community center will also have a reading room, a food shelf, an office for social workers or counselors and a banquet room for weddings or other events. “A community center is important to small towns like Braham because it draws other people in,” said Hoy. “We want locals to stay in town and not have to travel ten or twenty miles to hold a function.” With the boost of a $600,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for the building’s sewer extension, the community center project has been largely financed by proceeds from selling $5 high chairs and 25 cent coffee mugs from Tusen Tack and the support of Unity Bank, East Central Energy, HBH Consultants, Lakes and Pines, USDARural Development, the City of Braham and the Braham Chamber of Commerce.

4 5

In addition to to donating a portion of the profits generated by Tusen Tack each year, the members of the task force have left no funding stone unturned, from pitching local Lion’s Clubs to the Pie Day and Santa Day events. “I think the Tusen Tack Task Force and the level of cooperation they’ve fostered with the city and other organizations is the reason for optimism here,” said Janna King, a consultant with Economic Development Services, Inc., which helps communities implement economic development strategies. “They’ve shared a vision with a lot of people, have met every week to hash out the details and deal with whatever opportunities or barriers have arisen. Their persistence and great teamwork have been key to an overall feeling of ‘we’re all in this together and we’re going to make it work for our community.’” That can-do spirit permeates Braham. “We’re just a little town that refuses to die,” said Tish Carlson, the city’s mayor. “We just keep plugging away.”

A Place for Everyone The Braham Area Community Center includes:

MULTIPURPOSE ROOM: Used by seniors in the mornings and the city’s youth in the afternoons and summers.

READING ROOM: With books for both kids and adults, this informal library will also have internet access.

BANQUET HALL: A spacious, lightfilled room for anything from weddings to family reunions to school activities to corporate events.

FOOD SHELF: In addition to providing food for area residents, the community center will also house social service resources, including a room for mental health counseling and a disaster center.

KITCHEN: An industrial kitchen will be capable of producing meals for over 300 people.

3RD QUARTER 2013

Ask a question Business

Leadership Rewind What life experiences contributed to making you a successful leader? By Gene Rebeck | Photography by Justin Wohlrabe

Jane Robbins: “Listen to people who don’t agree with your decisions.”

You might believe that leaders are born, not made. But even if leadership is innate, it needs to be nurtured. We asked three successful leaders about the life experiences that unlocked their own potential.

JANE ROBBINS

Program Manager for Customized Training—Pine Technical College, Pine City

In 1992, the year that Robbins and her husband sold the Pine City radio station, she was elected mayor of Pine City, an office she held for 20 years. That same year, she also became a program manager for Pine Technical College’s new customized training department, which creates education and training tailored to businesses’ specific requirements. Parents Who Gave Back My family felt that you shouldn’t just live in a community. You should give back in some way. They felt that public service through the township, school and church was how they could be helpful to the community and make it a better place to live. Teacher Guidance I went to school in Plummer, Minnesota, which is just 17 miles south of Thief River Falls. Our principal was my speech teacher; his wife was my shorthand and bookkeeper instructor. They both said,

44 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

“Communications is the field where you belong.” Leading by Listening We had a small grass-strip airport in Pine City that needed to be expanded. But getting support financially to build that was impossible. The airport at nearby Rush City had a hard surface, so we joined hands with them. That made some people unhappy. Here’s the critical part: Listen to people who don’t agree with your decisions. See what their ideas are. Ask them what they would do. If you can get to a common ground where you share the facts and listen to their opinions, that’s as close as you can get to satisfying people.

BETTY SCHNETTLER

Vice President of Community Impact—United Way of Central Minnesota, St. Cloud

Schnettler works with the staff and volunteers who focus on utilizing all of the resources United Way of Central Minnesota raises, whether it’s financial contributions or volunteer time and talents. Gaining Confidence When I was in junior high, I got a job in the school office through a program that helped kids in lower-income families. I greeted

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Betty Schnettler: “Sometimes you have to listen and see what’s not being said.”

people and had very adult responsibilities. The adults believed in me and I felt like I could do more. Looking Behind the Scenes Sometimes you need to listen and work to be insightful—to see what’s not being said. I did an internship my senior year of college with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program in St. Cloud. There was a gentleman I met with who wanted to volunteer. He offered me a snack. When he opened his fridge, he only had commodity butter and ketchup. He wasn’t going to tell me he didn’t have much to eat. Fortunately, getting to know him bit better, we were able to hook him up with volunteering at a noon meal program, so that he was able to get the food he needed. Accepting Challenges When the director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program moved on, I had to make a decision as to whether I was going to apply to be director. I had never seen myself as a leader in that way. Then the outgoing director said to me, ‘Do you want someone else taking this organization in a direction that you don’t want it to go?’ And I said, ‘I sure don’t.’ So I applied, and was hired. I was only 24, but people supported me because I was open to learning and being mentored.

Bob Warzecha: “Say what you’re going to do, and do what you’re going to say.”

BOB WARZECHA

President—Two Rivers Enterprises, Holdingford

Two Rivers Enterprises designs, fabricates, customizes, manufactures and installs custom stainless steel products for the food processing, foodservice and restaurant and commercial food sanitation industries. Lessons from Selling Subscriptions (I) Selling magazines for a high-school fundraiser taught me how to be motivated for a sale. I had 200 subscriptions and it still wasn’t enough to win. I was trying to sell subscriptions to this older person in North St. Cloud. He kept saying no. Finally, the last time I came, he bought a number of subscriptions from me. That lesson was, if you want to do something and you’re professional and polite about it, “no” means “not now.” Lessons from Selling Subscriptions (II) I didn’t win! I divulged how many subscriptions I had to a friend of mine, and he got four or five other people together to beat me. So the other lesson was: confidentiality. Lessons from Other Businesses A lot of what I’ve learned has been from other businesses that have been successful. The thing that sticks most in my mind is: Be honest. Say what you do, and do what you say.

46 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

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extra strength continued from page 27

of it,” Huston said. “What’s been wonderful is being able to take my professional and lifetime experiences and really use them in ways I hadn’t expected.”

Rural Renewable Energy Alliance The Rural Renewable Energy Alliance in Pine River began as an advocacy group aimed at encouraging lawmakers to embrace solar power as a sustainable alternative to the $100 million and more Minnesota spends every year helping families challenged by fuel poverty to pay their heating bills. “When they said ‘no,’ we decided that the best way to persuade the government was to lead by example, so we started doing solar heating installations for low-income families on our own,” said executive director Jason Edens. Working out of Edens’ basement with a bare-bones budget and volunteer crew, RREAL began by sourcing solar energy systems from across North America—an expensive, inefficient system that the group realized was adding to the carbon footprint they were working to cut. So in 2006, RREAL’s staff determined to start making solar systems in their own backyard, and put out the call for a VISTA member with an engineering background who could help. It was answered by Graham Wright, a longtime KODAK engineer, who sold his house, moved to central Minnesota, and spent a year helping the nonprofit design and build a cost-efficient solar product of their own. “Having that kind of help and expertise from the VISTA program really lifted us up and put us in a whole new plane as an organization,” said Edens, adding that RREAL has since gone on to install nearly 400 sustainable solar-powered heating systems for low-income households. “ ‘Catapulted’ would probably be the right word.”

48 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

In fact, Wright was the first in a nearly seven-year succession of VISTA members who have had a long-term impact at RREAL. “We treat our VISTAs as full-on team members who are on equal footing with the rest of the crew,” Edens said. Former VISTA member Roger Garton had such an impact at RREAL that the organization hired him as their lead technical director and engineer. Adam Kuthart’s VISTA work for RREAL has helped him put his degree in solar energy engineering to work, building professional skills and expertise that he might not have had so soon out of graduate school. As RREAL reaches the end of its term as a VISTA host site, Edens said the nonprofit is now positioned to help solve the problem of fuel poverty for lowincome families for many years to come. “Having VISTA’s help has been such a godsend to our organization,” he said. “Thanks to their substantial help, RREAL has grown to the point where we can stand on our own two feet.”

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Say What? Occupational hearing loss is the most commonly recorded occupational illness in the manufacturing sector, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

By Maria Surma Manka

Listen up. Whether operating loud equipment or wearing a respirator in a toxic environment, workers need to communicate with each other. That’s where CavCom tunes in. Its founder and president, Jeff Morrill, is an industrial audiologist who worked with the U.S. Congress to establish some of the first hearing policies for high-noise environments in the 1970s. Years later, he invented the “Talk Through Your Ears” technology that drives the success of his company today. With an ear piece that houses a microphone and speaker, CavCom devices sense a user’s voice through the ear and transmit it via a two-way radio, all while protecting the wearer from hearing loss. The Initiative Foundation helped CavCom with financing for research and product development as well as management training and consulting. We were all ears when CavCom told us about its technology.

Props Jeff Morrill was named the Encore Entrepreneur of the Year 2013 by the Minnesota office of the U.S. Small Business Administration. The award is based on a company’s growth in jobs, revenue, profitability and innovative business methods to ensure long-term success. It is awarded to an individual who started a business after age 50.

Hearing Sells The company sells thousands of sets each year and has posted net positive growth of 10 percent annually.

56 Initiative Foundation Quarterly ifound.org

Ears are Unique The inside of everyone’s ear is different. For custom sets, CavCom takes an impression of the user’s ear and three-dimensionally scans it into a permanent digital file. CAD software is used to create the ear set for a perfect fit. This is similar to how medical and dental prosthetic devices are made.

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Where is IQ?

Think you know?

Send your best guess to IQ@ifound.org by December 25, 2013.

Three winners will be chosen, at random, to receive a $25 GiveMN.org gift card to support the charity of their choice. Hint: In a former life, he was a 42-foot redwood log. Congratulations to everyone who correctly recognized the walleye statue in Garrison in the previous issue. Deb Boelz, Adam Hamoude and Julie Fallgren were the lucky winners of GiveMN.org gift cards.

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ENOUGH ABOUT US. LET’S TALK ABOUT YOU. All you have to do is contact Range and say, “Here’s my challenge.” We look forward to helping you succeed.

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