Today's Gviing, Issue 1 by Lisa Jackson

™

The Quality of Investment Place of Charitable Giving

Dickinson’s quest to increase quality of place yields new facilities

How the Dakota Foundation is making a difference with discipline

also… Make the Most of Your Gifts Charitable estate planning ruth meiers hospitality faces of giving Welcome to giving upsides of a downturn

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 1

Full Page Ad (with bleeds) Ad File Size: 8.5 wide x 11.125 high Trim Size: 8.25 wide x 10.875 high Margin Size: 7.75 wide x 10.375 high

Eventide Senior Living Communities

2 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Winter 2010

Today’s Giving: What’s In It For You?

COCO: Working Together for the Common Good

Welcome to Giving

Nonprofits & Organizations

The Investment of Charitable Giving

Unearthing Farm-Equipment Benefits Long After the Fields

The Upsides of a Downturn

Stepping Out of the Shadows and Into the Light

Quality of Place

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Gifts

A new magazine to guide you in new times

The difference that business discipline can make Trends change by giving preserves through touch economies

In good times and bad

The Ruth Meiers Hospitality House offers hope and a future to those in need

Until Next Issue

Calendar of Events

Faces of Giving

Hjemkomst Center 202 1st Ave. N. Moorhead, MN 218-299-5511 www.hjemkomst-center.com www.info.co.clay.mn.us/History Home of the Viking Ship Hjemkomst and the Hoppperstad Stave Church as well as changing exhibits.

Museum Hours:

Mon – Sat 9am – 5pm Sun Noon – 5pm Tues 9am – 8pm

Archives Hours:

Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm Tues 10am – 9pm

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 3

Today’s Giving: What’s In It For You? A new magazine to guide you in new times By Kate Henne, Managing Editor, Today’s Giving

Kate Henne is a communications professional with over 25 years of experience spanning public, private and nonprofit business sectors, including roles as senior editor in technical and marketing communications. She’s currently consultant/owner of Straightline Communications, serving clients in Minnesota and the Dakotas.

4 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Already, we’re looking back at the first decade of what seems like still a brand-new century. With it came dramatic revolution: Changes in the ways we learn, work, and interact. Changes in the ways we earn and spend. Changes in how we see ourselves, and the world. Changes in what we value. Changes in what we want to change. The attacks of 9/11/2001 altered long-held perceptions that the Western world in general and America in particular are inexorable and untouchable powers—especially among America’s younger generations who’d grown up in a country without the draft; without major war. Over the remainder of the decade, America’s youth have engaged in activism and politics at a level unequaled since the ’60s. In the meantime, the first U.S.

baby-boomers reached retirement, and a generation so passionate about shaping the world around them four decades ago is now poised to do the same through a new trend in philanthropy in which contributors take more active part in causes they support. If the 90s found us dialed in, logged on, and surfing, the 2000s found us morphing nouns into verbs so that we could “text,” “tweet,” and “friend”—and creating unlikely new verbs as we “blogged” and “googled.” We strive to “go green” even as we “download podcasts.” “Mortgage” also switched from predominately a noun to a common verb as the decade played out. The economic bubble that had developed in the late 90s and swelled throughout the early decade finally burst in 2007. We saw corporations—many

diminished by corruption—go bust. Companies, credit limits, jobs and family budgets were downsized dramatically. Even the planet Pluto was demoted. As history unfolded, Mother Nature also showed unrest. An Indian Ocean tsunami took the lives of more than 300,000 in 2004. In 2005, we saw hugely destructive earthquakes in Kashmir and Asia, and Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. Worldwide, we debated and took first steps toward addressing global warming. And even as 2010 begins, death and injury numbers soar in Haiti after a 7.0 earthquake.

Curious trends, distinctive challenges Yet, during tumultuous times, our desire to give good things back to our world, country, communities, and

fellow mankind remained strong. Curiously—or perhaps not so much so—where human services were concerned, charitable giving even increased. (See article titled “The Upside of a Downturn” in this issue.) So the decade in which we were shaken into heightened awareness seems to be spawning new times in which many Americans are reaffirming the importance to act for positive change: of sharing; of kindness; of giving. One might think that a rising trend to give would result in decreasing need. But even as people’s commitment to giving increases, so do needs. At the same time, social networking and new media that have been ushered in during the changing of the century make us painfully aware that causes and “asks” seem endless. The result is often frustration,

or a sense that no matter what you do, your actions will be insufficient to make a difference. Sometimes the more you give, the more you feel like you’re asked to give. Perhaps sometimes you’re not confident that what you give is used with maximum impact. Given these challenges, how can you sustain your commitment to giving back to your world?

Guide your giving The first step is to develop a giving strategy. It can be just for now, or it can be a long-term plan. It can be both. The important thing is that you have a plan that fits your convictions, your life style and stage(s), your budget, and your goals. A strategy can be a solid foundation. But in addition, there are many considerations that can help you Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 5

reach your goals and help ensure that what you give—whether time, money or talent—has maximum value. Here are a just a few things, for example, you may want to get savvy about before executing different phases of your plan: ▶ Evaluating charities ▶ Protecting yourself from scams ▶ Donating non-cash items ▶ Planning different life stages (such as tips for older contributors) ▶ Gaining tax benefits of giving ▶ Maximizing your volunteer time ▶ Giving in the workplace ▶ Contributing as a giving leader Forming a strategy, ongoing awareness, continuous learning, and maximizing contributions are strong cornerstones of sustained giving. That’s where Today’s Giving comes in. We’re here to help you secure those cornerstones and successfully build on your “giving blueprint.”

Our commitment Whether you’re an individual contributor, part of a charitable group, or a member of a nonprofit organization—Today’s Giving is committed to helping you guide your giving strategy. We are devoted to helping charitable contributors and organizations maximize the effect of gifts and time. The information provided to

6 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

you within Today’s Giving’s quarterly publications will be centered on a straightforward and determined mission: To provide insight, inspiration, and knowledgeable guidance that will help maximize time and contributions from individuals, businesses, and agencies in helping meet giving goals To achieve this mission, we’re committed to the following objectives to help you meet your goals: ▶ To improve the quantity and quality of all charitable contributions by sharing timely, relevant knowledge about successful giving practices ▶ To assist individuals, groups and agencies in achieving their unique objectives through skilled guidance regardless of contribution interest and size ▶ To inspire charitable actions and support of organizations that enhance the well being of people across our region ▶ To inform the public about giving opportunities, issues, and trends with impartial, fact-based research

Why Today’s Giving, and why now? Today’s Giving will focus largely on needs, charities, inspiration, and information from across

North Dakota, western Minnesota, and northeastern South Dakota. That means you’ll learn about and from people with stories, tips and guidance that “hit home.” We believe that intelligent and strategic giving will not only meet short term-needs, but will advance more efficient philanthropy to ultimately overcome persistent social needs and shortcomings across our shared communities. We also believe that there’s no better time than a new decade—in a young century already marked by stirring change and increased awareness of growing needs—in which to inspire and guide giving. Welcome to your first issue of Today’s Giving. We invite your input and collaboration in meeting our goals.

College SAVE and the Gift of Higher Education As you well know, obtaining a college degree or advanced training is an important milestone for many students and their families. While a college degree can open many opportunities for graduates, it can also be expensive. The average student with a four-year undergraduate degree averages approximately $23,000* in student loan debt after graduation! Many families struggle to find the means to help send their child to school while minimizing student loan debt. College SAVE, North Dakota’s 529 Higher Education Savings Plan, was created to provide a tax-advantaged way for students and their families to save for college. When you open up a College SAVE account you may take advantage of several important benefits: • College SAVE accounts grow tax-deferred from federal and state income tax • Deduct up to $5,000 (up to $10,000 for married couples filing jointly) from your North Dakota state taxable income for your College SAVE contributions

one day...

i’ll become a botanist

College SAVE — for your child’s promising future Learn about the benefits of North Dakota’s own 529 college savings plan, including a matching grant for North Dakota residents.*

Visit collegesave4u.com or call 1.866.SAVE.529. * Matching grants are subject to the availability of funds and can be reduced or stopped at Bank of North Dakota’s discretion. If you are not a North Dakota taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state’s qualified tuition program. For more information about North Dakota’s College SAVE Plan, call 1-866-SAVE-529 (1-866-728-3529) or visit www.collegesave4u.com to obtain a Plan Disclosure Statement. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are included in the Plan Disclosure Statement; read and consider it carefully before investing. Upromise Investments, Inc. serves as Distributor and Underwriter. The College SAVE Plan is a 529 Plan established by the State of North Dakota. Bank of North Dakota acts as trustee of the College SAVE Trust and is responsible for administering the Plan. Upromise Investments, Inc. and Upromise Investment Advisors, LLC serve as the Plan Manager and Recordkeeping and Servicing Agent, respectively, with overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations, including effecting transactions and marketing and distribution of the Plan. The Vanguard Group, Inc. provides underlying investments for the Plan. The Plan’s Portfolios, although they invest in mutual funds, are not mutual funds. Units of the Portfolios are municipal fund securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions. ND6125 0809

• Pay no taxes on distributions for qualified higher education expenses • Qualified applicants may be eligible for up to a $300 matching grant from Bank of North Dakota for residents earning less than $40,000 ($80,000 if married, filing jointly) • Account assets can be used at eligible colleges, universities, and technical schools all around the U.S. – not just in North Dakota • Contribute as much as $12,000 per designated beneficiary each year ($24,000 for married couples, filing jointly) without incurring gift-tax consequences • Choose from a wide range of investment options managed by Vanguard to help you pursue your savings goals • Invite family and friends to help you save for a child when celebrating birthdays, holidays, graduations and more through the Ugift and Upromise Rewards programs To learn more about how College SAVE can help you save for a future college-bound student please visit www. collegeSAVE4u.com or call 1-866-SAVE-529. Article sponsored by Bank of North Dakota. See www.projectonstudentdebt.org

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 7

Winter 2010

Publisher

Ampian Publishing

Business Development Brian Bestge, Director

Editors In Chief

Shannon Schweigert, Founder Lisa Jackson, Founder

Managing Editor Kate Henne

Graphic Design

Mike Biewer, Creative Services Jamie Farmen, Production Design Dan Nisbet, Typography and Layout

Advertising Account Executives Lynn Hanson, Lead Sales Michele Ketter, Associate Sales Lin Smithwick, Associate Sales

Letters Send letters to the editor to info@todaysgiving.com. Distribution Information Today’s Giving is available free by pick up at multiple distribution points throughout North Dakota, western Minnesota, and northeastern South Dakota. For a list of outlets that provide Today’s Giving, visit www.todaysgiving.com. If you need more information about availability in your region or wish to request an issue copy, contact distribution@ampian.com. Subscription Services Today’s Giving is currently provided

free to the general public at distribution points. To request issues delivered to your home, business or agency, contact distribution@ ampian.com.

Advertising Contact sales@ampian.com or Lynn Hanson at (701) 306-8783 Article Proposals Send article proposals to info@todaysgiving.com. “Faces of Giving” This section of each issue will recognize

those who give in unique ways. Send recommendations to info@ todaysgiving.com. The mission of Today’s Giving is to provide insight, inspiration, and knowledgeable guidance that will help individuals, businesses, and agencies maximize their time and contributions to meet their unique giving goals. Today’s Giving is an independent organization owned by GivingPoint™ and is not affiliated with specific nonprofits. ©2010 All articles and content in this publication are under copyright and rights are reserved. Any use or reproduction of the content is prohibited without written permission from GivingPoint™. To request reprint permission, contact info@ .com. Some articles in this magazine are submitted by independent authors and industry specialists. Therefore, their views may vary and may not be those of the publishers, Today’s Giving™ or GivingPoint™.

503 7th St N, Suite 104, Fargo, ND 58102 8 Today’s |Giving Winter 2010 www. ampian.com 701-356-7770

Contributors Dayna Del Val (Stepping Out of the Shadows and Into the Light) is a founding member of the local non-profit organization Wellspring for the World, a Fargo-based group dedicated to raising funds to build wells in Africa and beyond. She is a freelance writer whose work has been seen in from house to HOME and Wedding Vow as well as the on-line site Manage My Home. She lives in Fargo with her husband and teenage son. Debora Dragseth (Quality of Place) is a professor of business at Dickinson State University. She is an active speaker and a national award winning business writer. Her research interests include Generation Y, outmigration and entrepreneurship. Debora has been given Dickinson State University’s highest faculty award, the Distinguished Teacher of the Year. She has been named the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce’s Teacher of the Year and the student-elected Outstanding Faculty. Dr. Dragseth has an MBA from the University of North Dakota and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska. Kate Mund (The Investment of Charitable Giving) founded Lucy Communications in March 2006 after nearly eight years with Great Plains/Microsoft as a member of its communications team in Fargo, North Dakota. Prior to that, she looked after communications for two years for United Way of Cass-Clay. While at Great Plains/Microsoft, Kate helped lead the company’s annual United Way campaign efforts. Kate lends her expertise to a number of area nonprofit organizations. She resides on the outskirts of DeLamere, North Dakota, with her husband, Paul, and their two sons.

From the Founders

WToday’ elcome to s Giving By Lisa Jackson, Co-Founder, Today’s Giving

“L

isa, what do you do for a living?” “I’m a fundraiser.” Silence. What follows is either nothing—perhaps because people assume I’m going to ask them for money—or a simple “I could never do that.” I graduated from NDSU with a Mass Communication degree and an emphasis in marking, public relations, and business— not sure of what I wanted to be “when I grew up.” I expected to work for a major public relations or advertising firm, and cut my teeth in both sales and state-ofthe-art marketing campaigns. I soon landed my “dream job” as a Sales and Marketing Representative for Newell Rubbermaid, ecstatic to be on track and ready to climb the corporate ladder as fast as possible. The company’s “Phoenix” initiative at the time deployed roughly 500 recentlyrecruited college grads in a nation-

The point is that giving is not transactional, but transformational. wide “swarm” team to merchandise Newell Rubbermaid’s products. We worked retail, selling product displays in box stores and interacting with consumers. The whole experience was fast paced, educational and

competitive. I was doing well in the job. But…I wasn’t satisfied at a personal level. Something was missing. I found little passion in selling totes. During college I had worked often as a volunteer, planning events and raising money for organizations such as Prevent Child Abuse America, the YWCA, the Fargo Air Museum and Nokomis Child Care Center. At the time, I didn’t realize there was a whole profession dedicated to the art and science of philanthropy. What had been missing in my fast-paced sales and marketing job was the fulfillment that comes with giving. When I finally realized that philanthropy had been my calling all along, I started my fundraising career. What I’ve learned since has provided tremendous personal satisfaction while helping organizations and individuals fulfill their missions. The best part: meeting people from around the region and across the nation, hearing about their background, what’s motivated them, and how they want to help others—often strangers—to improve lives. I have the best job in the world; not just as a fundraiser, but as a conduit to help people reach their “giving” goals and beyond, regardless of the size of their gifts. The point is that

Lisa Jackson Co-Founder, Today’s Giving

giving is not transactional, but transformational. I get the privilege to be a part of someone doing something that transforms their life and, in turn, improves the lives of others. In co-founding Today’s Giving, my goal is to inspire readers to seek better solutions and help solve social problems, make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, and help them ultimately find and the best way to be fulfilled in their life’s mission.

Lisa Jackson

Co-Founder, Today’s Giving

Lisa Jackson is a founding principal of GivingPoint™ (a fundraising consulting firm founded in 2007) and Today’s Giving, and is also executive director of the Barnesville Area Community Fund. Over the last decade she has worked professionally and as a volunteer with various nonprofit organizations in the fields of communication, marketing and fundraising, including: Newell Rubbermaid, Jamestown College, and The University of Kansas. She lives in Barnesville, Minnesota with her husband Dustin.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 9

The Investment of Charitable Giving The difference that business discipline can make By Kate Mund

“We wanted to make it

very clear that we make investments; we don’t provide hand-outs. We love to invest in people, to give people the skills they need to make themselves more self-sufficient. What has more economic viability than that?” Bart Holaday,Founder and Chairman, The Dakota Foundation

10 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

When you invest your money in a vest” in people and programs rather rather than a paternalistic approach. mutual fund or the stock market, you than simply “making” grants. Third, the foundation focuses on do so with the expectation that your So what exactly does “business disentrepreneurship. investment will grow. Should investcipline” mean? “We love learning about new ideas ments in charitable giving be viewed “I have spent my career in the inand new ways to accomplish chariin a similar way? That is, should you vestment business, and I expect to get table purposes,” Holaday said. expect them to result in social rea return on every dollar I use,” HolaAn Investment Focus turns that will grow? According to day said. “In the nonprofit world, that The foundation is guided by these Bart Holaday, an active and proven return is most often social return. simple yet powerful concepts: phiphilanthropist, the answer is a reBut, however measured, the total relanthropy not charity; investment not sounding “absolutely.” turn should be greater than the dolconsumption. “We wanted to make Holaday, Founder and Chairman lars invested.” it very clear that we make investof The Dakota Foundation, knows And what a remarkable career it ments; we don’t provide hand-outs,” a thing or two about hard work, dehas been, spanning both public and Holaday said. “We love to invest in termination, discipline and business. private sectors. A chartered finanpeople, to give people the skills they After graduating from the U.S. Air cial analyst, Holaday retired in 2001 need to make themselves more selfForce Academy, he received a Rhodes as managing director of the private sufficient. What has more economic Scholarship that took him to Engmarkets group of UBS Asset Manageviability than that?” land’s Oxford University. He earned ment in Chicago, where he and his To pursue its goals, The Dakota a master’s degree in politics, philosoteam managed $19 billion in private Foundation provides grants as well as phy and economics, then went on to equity, real estate, oil, gas and timber. program-related investments (PRIs), earn a law degree from George WashFor the Holadays, the “business a type of low-interest financing. PRIs ington University. He also holds an discipline” that serves as a backbone are most commonly made as belowhonorary Doctor of Letters degree to The Dakota Foundation addresses from the University of North Dakota. three key areas. First, there A native of Jamestown, North Dais an investment focus in kota, Holaday and his wife, Lynn, everything the foundation created The Dakota Foundation in does. Second, the founda1997 “to address social issues and tion makes investments— enhance human capabilities through in the form of grants and activities that combine business disprogram-related investcipline with charitable intent.” ments—that enhance efThe Dakota Foundation was ficiency and promote a formed on beliefs rooted in investparticipatory approach ments rather than donations. In to working with people fact, one of the foundation’s beliefs specifically states: Nonprofit organizations can The Dakota Foundation, through the annual distribution of charitable dollars, solves social benefit from the application problems and assists individuals in achieving greater self-sufficiency. We accomplish our program goals primarily through program-related investments (PRIs). Holding to a belief in of business discipline, busiproviding people the tools they need to help themselves, we favor those small entrepreneurial ness approaches and a focus organizations that promote social change with new and creative ideas, and with disciplined on customer service. We “infinancial thinking.

Mission Statement

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 11

market rate loans or, occasionally, tion. Through the camps, equity interest, and require that the elementary and middle receiving agency generate sufficient school students experience cash flow to ultimately repay the loan what it’s like to run their or provide a return on the equity. All own town and start their returns from PRIs must be recycled own businesses. Miniinto new PRIs or grants and cannot Society is known to be an be added to The Dakota Foundaeffective and popular ention corpus. Preferably, the grants trepreneurship education and PRIs given by the foundation are program that increases used to help create sustainable prothe level of academic perKids at one of Dakota Foundation’s Mini-Society® Young grams rather than being consumed formance, entrepreneurial Entrepreneur Summer Camps build their entrepreneurial skills. immediately with a one-time impact. thinking, career aspiratafoundation.org), the foundation Most grants and PRIs range in size tions, civic participation and person“seeks opportunities to help the next from $50,000 to $100,000 and focus al resilience of students. The camps generation of talented entrepreneurs on activities in Holaday and Lynn’s take place primarily on North Dastrengthen their skills and hone their home states, North Dakota and New kota’s American Indian reservations. talents.” Mexico, respectively. “Ideas like Mini-Society, ideas that “In North Dakota especially, we While the Holadays strongly beare new and look at new ways of dolieve that an investment approach is the talent best way to evaluate philanthropic efforts, North Dakota they don’t spend time on asking similar entities to change their skills approach. “We’re not out to change “We’re not out to change nonprofits. We’re out to make a nonprofits,” said Holaday. “We’re difference with our nonprofit.” out to make a difference with our — Bart Holaday, Founder and Chairman, The Dakota Foundation nonprofit.”

discipline

education

investments

philanthropy future self-sufficient

A Participatory Approach A shining example of an investment by The Dakota Foundation that is resulting in high social returns as well as great efficiency through a participatory approach is the Mini-Society® Young Entrepreneur Summer Camps presented by the University of North Dakota’s Center for Innova-

12 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

ing things for a high social return, those are the ones that excite Lynn and me,” said Holaday.

Entrepreneurship Through programs such as MiniSociety, The Dakota Foundation delivers on its vision of fostering and encouraging entrepreneurship. As stated on its website (www.dako-

face a real challenge to create good business opportunities for young people that want to stay in the state,” said Holaday. “It’s a shame if they want to stay yet have to leave to find opportunities.” One of the foundation’s primary reasons for its focus on education is that the Holadays believe that there is simply no better economic devel-

opment investment than education. “We have to create a better educated workforce to compete internationally,” said Holaday.

Finding Inspiration and Passion The Holadays feel that a key component to successful charitable giving is for people to find their inspiration and their passion. For Holaday, his inspiration—both personally and professionally—is people. “I am so inspired when I see someone who has identified an opportunity to better himself/herself and society, and that person takes advantage of it,” he said. “To the extent that we can use the foundation to help people discover that in themselves, that’s a real benefit that inspires me.”

Another component is asking the simple question, “where is your passion?” “We found that we are very passionate about our home states,” said Holaday. “And while there is an infinite variety of ways to give back, a family foundation works best for us.” He said that at this stage of their lives (both Holaday and Lynn are 67 years young), it’s important to ask questions that address how you spend the time you have and whom you choose to spend it with. “I have never met a person I’m so happy being with as Lynn,” said Holaday. “We

feel very blessed, and we feel an obligation to give back to society.” To get more out of your charitable giving dollars, consider gifts to program-related investments and/or ongoing sustainable programs. Ask your receiving organization(s) for information on how their programs both address the needs of today and create a better future.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 13

The Upsides of a Downturn Trends change but giving perseveres through tough economies By Shannon Schweigert, Today’s Giving The most widespread U.S. financial crisis since the Great Depression of the 1930’s continues to affect Americans’ daily lives. I’m often asked for my perspective on how the economic downturn has affected charitable giving. Many people assume that trends in giving reflect those in the financial markets. But despite financial worries, Americans continue to give. Though off slightly, giving trends have bucked the national financial trends. Total annual charitable giving in the United States dropped for only the second time since charitable watchdog Giving USA (Giving USA, 2009) began tracking annual totals in 1956. Even so, contributions to charitable entities in 2008 fell only 2%. Despite the drop, U.S. charitable giving surpassed $300 billion for a second consecutive year. Estimated giving in 2007 was $314.07 billion, the first time the figure surpassed the $300 billion mark. Total giving broke the $ 300 billion plateau a second consecutive year as $307.65 billion in gifts were recorded. (Giving USA plans to publish statistics for 2009 in May 2010.)1

uncommon drop Only twice since 1956 have Americans given less than the previous year. Historically, charitable giving in the U.S. has increased an average of 8.4% in years without a recession, and 6.2% in years with a recession. In

14 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

poor economies, the growth rate of charitable giving drops an average of 1%. The average decline in recessions lasting 8 months or more is 2.7%. The National Bureau of Economic Research declared the start of our current recession as December, 2007. The drop in 2008 charitable giving is the first decline since 1987, a year in which a tax law prompted donors to “give early” in order to maximize deductions they could claim.

As the Recession Lingers Target Analytics, a Blackbaud Company, recently released a study comparing giving trends in the first two quarters of 2008 and 2009 to identify signs of decline or recovery in the nonprofit industry2. The study compared three primary metrics—revenue, total donors, and new donors—and five secondary metrics related to donor attraction and retention. The nonprofit industry was divided into eight distinct sectors: Animal Welfare, Arts & Culture, Environment, Health, Human Services, International Relief, Religion, and Societal Benefit. The primary metrics of revenue, total donors and new donors all decreased in 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, which indicates that the decline in giving has not reversed. Revenue declined a median 7.7%, and donor numbers fell a median 3.5%, echoing a three-year decline. New donor numbers fell by 7.6% and fewer than a third of the organizations surveyed experienced new donor growth—a significant factor in the overall decline. Over the past five years, the number of new donors has dropped an average 9.7%; an annual effective decline of 1.9% per year.

Priorities Change Statistics show that sustained donors have not reduced the amounts they give, but have been more selective. While overall giving fell just 2%, major declines were felt in select non-

International-relief organizations saw the greatest declines as many turned their support to charitable causes closer to

Industry Revenue Comparison Revenue Change by Sector

home, with revenue falling 16.3% while numbers of donors

Q2 2008 YTD to Q2 2009 YTD

fell by 8.1%. Environmental nonprofits also saw significant

Overall Index

decreases. Religion, the largest beneficiary sector traditionally

Animal Welfare

receiving nearly one of every three dollars contributed, saw

-7.7% -1.7% -7.0%

Arts & Culture

declines in revenue (-2.6%) and donors (-1.8%). Religion was,

-9.9%

Environmental

however, the only sector to record an increase in new donors,

-7.1%

growing by 0.7%—an indication that many may be turning or

Health

returning to their faith communities for guidance during their

Human Services

economic struggles.

Relief

3.4% -16.3% -2.6%

Religion

profit sectors. During times of economic growth, the average American benefactor gives to seven nonprofits; that number declines to three in difficult economies. Donors tend to concentrate their giving to those organizations representing societal “needs” rather than issues that are

less immediate and more representative of “wants.”

Human Services Bucks the Trend Giving USA1 research shows that Gift revenue increased 3.4% from the first two quarters of 2009 verses the

Changes in Key Metrics Overall Index Medians Year-over-Year Change in Key Measures

REVENUE

DONORS

Q2 2007 YTD to Q2 2008 YTD

-5.9%

Social Benefit

Source: Giving USA (2009)

NEW DONORS

REV / DONORS

OVERALL RETENTION

Q2 2008 YTD to Q2 2009 YTD

Source: Index of National Fundraising Performance - 2009 Second Claendar Quarter Results

1st YEAR RETENTION

MULTI-YEAR RETENTION

first two of 2008. Historically, giving to human-service organizations increases by an average of 5% during recessions lasting eight months or more. Non-recession growth in the sector is 2.9%. While the survey results are encouraging for the sector, the need for services also increases in difficult economic times. The increase in giving most likely reflects the increase in need. REACTIVATION

A Regional Perspective on Domestic Violence Executive director of the Community Violence Intervention Center (CVIC) of Grand Forks, Kristi Hall-Jiran notes that the organization is seeing some of the greatest spikes in ser-

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 15

13% Foundations $41.21B

5% Corporate Gifts $14.5B

Sources of Giving

Charitable Requests $22.66B

2008 Gift Revenues

75% Individual Donors

The 2008 gift revenues by sources indicates a 2.7% decrease in gifts from individuals, which traditionally make up the majority of all giving revenues. Source: Foundation Center (2008)

$229.28B

vice provision in its 29-year history. “As is often the case, women— particularly low-income women—are being disproportionately affected by the economic crisis.” CVIC’s largest program, the Abuse and Rape Crisis Program, serves primarily low-income women and experienced dramatic increases in need from 2007 to 2008. The Center saw a 50% increase in those needing housing assistance and who received help to take steps towards re-locating to

permanent housing after leaving a violent relationship. Respectively, there was a 33% increase in the number of protection orders sought and a 30% increase in the numbers of children and youth receiving counseling to overcome the trauma of violence. The number of clients reporting homelessness as a result of domestic violence grew by 19%. Most alarming, CVIC reported a 105% increase for 2008 in the number of individuals seeking shelter in

Average Rates of Change in Giving Average rates of change in giving to respective purposes under various economic conditions, 2 1967 - 2007 RECESSION IN 8 MONTHS OR MORE NONOF YEAR3 TOTAL RECESSION RECESSION

Religion

2.0%

-0.1%

2.8%

Education

3.1%

-1.1%

4.6%

-1.9%

Foundations

8.5%

5.9%

11.5%

29.3%

Human Services

2.3%

0.7%

2.9%

5.0%

Health

2.3%

0.5%

2.9%

1.9%

Public-Society Benefit

6.4%

3.9%

7.3%

4.8%

Arts, Culture, & Humanities 4.0%

1.9%

4.7%

2.3%

Int’l Affairs

13.2%

9.0%

26.3%

12.0%

6.7%

6.2%

12.8%

8.2%

Animals, Environment 6

1.4%

Giving during recessions and economic slowdowns, Giving USA Spotlight, Issue 3, 2008 2 Some industries reflect shorter study period 3 1978 - 2008 4 Includes two years, 1982 and 2001. In 1982, giving to foundations rose 57.6 percent. The value for 2001 is 1.0 percent. 5 1987 - 2007 6 1987 - 2007

16 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

their Light of Hope Shelter after fleeing violence. Hall-Jiran points out that this period reflects the most dramatic increases in service provision in her 20 years with CVIC. Hall-Jiran notes that increased needs—coupled with the potential for decreased revenues—creates the “perfect storm” for agencies such as CVIC. Contrary to the national human service statistics, CVIC is anticipating a 26% decrease in funds raised through direct mail this year. Federal stimulus funds have helped close the gap Human Services is a for direct services for the non-profit sector that is a noted exception time being, but there reto the overall trend. mains a large revenue Following a 54-year shortage to meet the intrend of experiencing creased need for on-going greater increases in services. CVIC’s sustained giving to Human Service contributors have stepped organizations during forward with largertimes of economic than-normal gifts to help hardship, this sector was make up for the expected the only one to record shortfall. revenue growth during For the long-term, Hallthe study period.

Jiran anticipates staying the course in building funding relationships, “In general, with funders, we are beginning to focus more on our comprehensive, holistic approach and how we have the expertise to actually ‘solve’ the problem of violence, to prevent it, not just keep reacting to it. We just need the resources to do so.” CVIC’s New Choices Program, which offers treatment for offenders, experienced a 27% increase in men participating this past year. Recurring offenses were recorded for two years following participants’ completion of the program. Police calls to their residences fell by 67% and protection orders issued declined 93%.

dramatically. Diehl also points out that RACC is just one of many intervention organizations serving the communities of Fargo-Moorhead, as well as Cass and Clay Counties. He agrees that the economy and the financial pressures felt within domestic situations adds to the stressors, stating “Added stress of financial issues, and loss of a job brings couples one step closer to the powder keg that may erupt into domestic violence.” RACC collaborates with the YWCA of Cass-Clay for shelter services. Erin Prochnow, executive director of the YWCA, says record numbers of women and children

“In general, with funders, we are beginning to focus more on our comprehensive, holistic approach and how we have the expertise to actually ‘solve’ the problem of violence, to prevent it, not just keep reacting to it. We just need the resources to do so.” — Kristi Hall-Jiran “These statistics reflect some of the most exciting progress for our programs in the 20 years I’ve been with CVIC. This intervention gets to the root of the problem and is changing the generational chain of abuse,” states Hall-Jiran. For the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center (RACC) of Fargo, increased service demand has not been as dramatic. However, according to Executive Director Greg Diehl, the requests for crisis emergency assistance needs such as food, gas, bills, transitional housing and utilities has increased

sought shelter during October, 2009. The shelter, with a capacity of 65, housed 86 individuals twice during October, and spent the majority of 2009 over capacity. Gift revenues for both Fargo organizations remained steady in 2009. Prochnow is pleased with 2009 revenues, but notes that gifts received were much less than projected for the year. “Our corporate gifts are down slightly, individual giving is steady and revenue from churches and other organizations has increased.” Diehl noted that RACC’s founda-

tion grants have decreased since the economic recession began, but gifts from individuals have increased by 22%, keeping overall gift revenues relatively steady. Since 2007, RACC has increased its number of contributors by 14%, a statistic Diehl credits to maintaining a consistent fundraising calendar, increasing the number of face-to-face donor visits, and creating more opportunities for volunteers to get involved. The result: More opportunities for prospective benefactors to learn more about the work of RACC and be inspired to support its mission. Prochnow echoes the stay-thecourse technique, saying the YWCA continues to reach supporters with more information “touches” and is reaching new and sustained donors by “building on what we have always done; advocating for those in need.”

Works Cited

Giving USA. (2009). a publication of Giving USA Foundation. Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Helen Flannery, Rob Harris. Carol Rhine. (September 2009). Index of National Fundraising Performance. Target Analytics a Blackbaud Company. 2

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 17

Quality of Place By Debora Dragseth

Quality of place has a profound effect on quality of life. With the vision of making their community a better place to live, work and play, the residents of Dickinson, North Dakota have shown a creative and entrepreneurial spirit, a deep commitment to progress, and a willingness to effect change. Photo Courtesy Scott Thuen

In 2004, the Dickinson community welcomed a new $12.3 million, 93,000 square foot fitness facility, the West River Community Center, which included an aquatic area, racquetball courts, tennis courts, a climbing wall, a gymnasium, and a safari maze playground. The success of the community center led to the construction of the nearly completed Badlands Activities Center on the Dickinson State University campus. This $16 million, multi-use athletic facility showcases a state-of-the-art track, the largest outdoor electronic videoboard in the state, a syntheticturf football field, and seating for approximately 4,000 fans. The only thing more impressive than these two massive building

18 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

projects was the process that made them possible, including the work of a unique network of local leaders who understood that enhancing the quality and livability of their community was not the responsibility of one or two elite groups, but needed to be a shared vision—a true grass roots, community-wide effort. Financial support for both the West River Community Center and the Badlands Activities Center was a combination of individual donors, corporate donors and a ½ percent sales tax that was approved in 2002 by a majority vote of the town’s forward-thinking residents.

and a willingness to see your neighbors as allies working toward a common good, there is no true community; there is just a group of people who happen to have the same zip code. Today’s Giving had the opportunity to spend some time with a few of the leaders who were a part of the Dickinson experience from its early stages. Although these individuals expressed intense pride in what had been accomplished, they balked at being called “leaders.” Perhaps they are right, a better term might be stewards—stewards of place.

Stewards of “place”

Vaune Cripe, Senior Vice-President of American Bank Center, was there

Without social relationships, trust

The West River Community Center

from the beginning as the chair of a loosely organized team called Destiny Dickinson. The organization’s initial job was to promote the ½ cent city sales tax. Without the passage of the tax, the West River Community Center could not have been built. To support the ½ cent sales tax vote, the team hit the streets. They visited with coffee groups at Hardees, McDonalds, Perkins—wherever people gathered. Cripe said, “We attempted to share the message that just because we are in Dickinson doesn’t mean that we don’t deserve this. It required a real change in mindset.” James Kramer, Parks District Director, was at those meetings as well. “When we were trying to sell the idea

of a ½ cent sales tax to support the building of a community center, we told voters, ‘We have no idea what it is going to look like.’ All we knew was that if the sales tax vote was successful, we would have $12.2 million available to build.” The team pledged that once the financing came through, they would poll every users group for their input, and they did. With the newly selected architects in tow, they worked with 46 different groups, spending at least an hour

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Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 19

with each group asking them what their needs were for the center. Brian Becker, Senior Principle, Ohlson LaVoie Collaborative, said

challenging, yet ultimately very rewarding experience.” One of the things that the architects wanted to give to the communi-

A unique network of local leaders who understood that enhancing the quality and livability of their community was not the responsibility of one or two elite groups, but needed to be a shared vision—a true grass roots, community-wide effort. that his architectural firm discovered in Dickinson a community that was uniquely interactive. “In truth,” he said, “we found it was a perfect fit. We got absorbed into the culture of this community. I can tell you we were heavily involved all the way; we shook a lot of hands. We went to over fifty individual meetings with citizen groups. This was a

20 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

ty was a Badlands theme—a building with the look and feel of the region. The architects integrated a coal vein into the design and traveled to Medora and the Killdeer Mountains to choose the sage green, burnt red and scoria colors. As a part of the financing package, Destiny Dickinson pledged to raise $1.5 million in donations. Through

the generosity of corporate contributors as well as individual donors, $3.2 million in donations poured in. In 2002, the Parks and Recreation Department hired consultants to help it to set fees, hire staff and, in general, prepare for the opening of the facility. The consultants told them to expect 1,750 annual members. Kramer said, “We opened our doors with 4,800 members. It was quite a challenge to make the needed adjustments to accommodate the unexpected numbers. In truth, we were making adjustments on the fly.” According to six-day-a-week user and early planner, 82-year-old Al Uhler, the success of the building is in its multi-generational diversity. For example, the hospital uses the lazy river for rehabilitation services,

preschoolers play in the multipurpose room with their parents, and many seniors belong to the Silver Sneakers fitness program. “After my workout,” Uhler said, “I stay for coffee with my friends. It truly is a community gathering place.”

The Badlands Activities Center Only a dream just a little over a year ago, the Badlands Activities Center will soon be the pride of western North Dakota. Known as “The BAC,” it includes a new football stadium on the University campus that, like the old stadium, will also be used by Dickinson’s public and Catholic schools. Dickinson State University Blue Hawks’ defensive tackle and tight end, Luke Steiner, played football in the old stadium when he was a Trinity High School student. Each fall, the field would begin to show the stress of hosting so many games. “Sometimes, late in the season, you could put your hand down and your fingers would sink 2-3 inches into the dirt,” he said. On rainy weekends, the field became a virtual mud bowl. Today, the new synthetic turf mimics natural grass and sand and rubber infill replicates dirt. Besides his pride in being a part of the Blue Hawks, a perennial Dakota Athletic Conference powerhouse, Steiner has even more skin in the game—his summer job was working for Berger Electric, a subcontractor that installed the main power feed to the BAC. He laughed, “I

Lessons learned V

aune Cripe, Destiny Dickinson Chair

Don’t make excuses, make progress. Cripe remembers receiving a phone call from a community leader in another state who wanted to know how Dickinson had accomplished all that it had in such a short time frame. After Cripe explained the process she heard a sigh on the other end of the phone. “Well,” the caller lamented, “That sounds like just too much work.” Don’t underestimate the value of bringing in the general population from the beginning. It’s tempting to get a small group together and start planning, but ideas can come up via the community think tank that are invaluable. Transparency is critical. Transparency allows confidence in the process.

ennis Johnson, Mayor of Dickinson

Pay attention to whom you select and elect to leadership positions. Make sure that your leaders are willing to go out and work for what you want as a community. Another building that Dickinson can point to with pride is the Dickinson Area Library Foundation’s renovation of our Public Library.

ames Kramer, Parks District Director

Every community is different; what worked here may not work everywhere, but in every community people want to be involved.

rian Becker, Senior Principle, Ohlson LaVoie Collaborative Architectural Firm

Dickinson should be an inspiration for other communities. Hang in there. Don’t get overwhelmed by the budget or the process. Have a vision and establish your goals and priorities around that vision. The finished building is a testament to the quality of the people of Dickinson. Gene Fisher of Fisher Industries and Kevin Thompson, Executive Director of Alumni Association and Dickinson University Foundation CEO.

evin Thompson, Dickinson State University Foundation CEO

It’s very important to have open dialogue with the community. There has been thoughtful discussion, both formal and informal, which has been critical in making these projects a reality.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 21

guess if the lights don’t come on, it’s my fault!” The BAC and the West River Community Center projects each had one important caveat: whenever possible, to use local contractors. Mark Schrom of Mortenson Construction, a Minneapolis-based company that is acting as construction manager for the BAC, said, “We used many local subcontractors. We found that there is incredibly good help around here. Workers in North Dakota are among the best.”

Schrom said, “One thing that has been distinctive about the Dickinson project is that normally we construct the facility first and build the field last—but, as this was the only field in town, we built the field first, and now are building the facility around it.” The BAC, slated for completion in early 2010, is being built with $10 million in donations and $6 million from the tax initiative. Kevin Thompson, Dickinson State University Foundation CEO, noted that the first gift was $500,000 in cash

from Roughrider Electric Cooperative, soon followed by $1.6 million from Fisher Industries, $1 million from the Walton Family Foundation and several gifts in the $100,000 to $1 million range. Thompson said, “These generous gifts propelled the fundraising that allowed us to go forward with the project.” In addition to athletic events, the BAC will be used to host public events and promises to be a significant economic and recruitment engine for the region.

Honoring Our Past… Inspiring Our Future

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in 206 chapters throughout the world.

AFP ND Northern Plains Chapter Advances Philanthropy Through • advocacy • research • education • certification programs Fosters Development and Growth of • fundraising professionals • promotes ethical standards For membership and conference schedule contact: Denise Laymon Phone: 218-745-6008 email: ndafp@wiktel.com web: www.afpnorthdakota.afpnet.org

22 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

“And so, because of budgets and downsizing, instead of conducting our annual raid, our consultant recomends this direct mail brochure.”

Creating community destiny A strong sense of destiny is present in Dickinson, North Dakota, supported by committed and energetic leaders and philanthropists. Knowing that together they could do so much more, members of this community have crossed normal boundaries and built a coalition for action. Like barn raising or quilting bees of old, when one project is done, community members begin to look for the next challenge. And that is exactly what is happening in Dickinson. The question being asked as this entrepreneurial community turns the corner into the next decade is, “What will we build next?”

COMMUNITY

of contributors $6 M

Tax Initiative

$3.2 M

Destiny Dickinson

$1 M

Walton Family Foundation

$500 K

Roughriders Elec. Coop

$500 K – $1 M

Donation Gifts

$1.6 M

Fisher Industries

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 23

Ways to Make the Most of Your Gifts

In good times and bad By Lisa Jackson, Today’s Giving The recession economy has a direct impact on the charitable giving habits of many. Nonprofits are dependent upon generosity in good times, as well as bad. According to George Ruotolo, Jr., chair of the Giving Institute, 65% of American households with incomes of less than $100,000 make annual contributions to charity. That is a greater percentage than those who vote or subscribe to a Sunday newspaper. This group of Americans seldom gives from excess,

65% of American households with incomes of less than $100,000 make annual contributions to charity. but makes sacrificial gifts from their household budget. An economic downturn can force many Americans to make difficult

decisions regarding their charitable giving. Shrinking stock portfolios have diminished the effectiveness of one the most powerful and financially efficient giving tools: appreciated stock. Increases in energy costs and inflation have also cut into family budgets, diminishing the ability to make cash contributions. And yet, a poor economy is often the time when services that nonprofits provide are needed most. So it’s important to sustain both giving practices and impact, no matter the economy. Here are five tips for making the most of your contributions in good times and bad: Make your charitable giving a part of the household budget; not apart from it. Once you have planned for your family’s basic needs for lifestyle and health, proactively plan for how you’ll give by taking time to make a charitable budget. If your charitable dollars are tight, invest in one to three priority organizations rather than multiple. Larger gifts to a couple of priority organizations will make a much more significant impact on those issues most important to you. Indentify your personal values and prioritize nonprofits whose missions most closely reflect them. Do you find the greatest satisfaction by supporting your alma mater, your church, a hospital? Which groups do you feel provide the services which

24 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Do You WANT Your GIVING to Have GREATER Impact? Jim and Shirley Hooge recently made a charitable contribution by setting up a donor advised fund with Vessel Christian Foundation. Through this fund, the family received the tax savings that come from giving to a registered 501(c) (3) organization. More importantly, Jim and Shirley, along with their five children, can make decisions about where to direct these funds over several years instead of when the actual gift was made.

“

This is the first donation we’ve made in this way and of this size…and we feel it has truly reignited the fun of giving for us. Vessel’s services have helped us to be efficient and purposeful in our giving while having fun with it.

”

best ensure a better tomorrow in your eyes? Answering these questions will help you make the difficult decisions of whom to support first. Your charitable giving is a tangible expression of your values. Think of it as a vote in favor of what your beneficiary organization is doing. Take the time to learn more about the mission you are supporting and how you may be able to help attract others to the cause. Give your time. Volunteer in support of what you believe. Your time is valuable. None of us knows exactly how much time we have left to do good work in support of others. Budget your time as you do your money; giving generously to the issues most important to you.

To set up your own donor advised fund or provide support to existing projects, please contact Michelle Walters, Executive Director, Vessel Christian Foundation. 701.746.8321 or michelle.walters@vesselchristianfoundation.org.

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COCO: Working Together for the Common Good By Kate Henne, Today’s Giving

North Dakota’s Coalition of Charitable Organizations (COCO) prompts collaboration to maximize an entire region’s resources. COCO, in Dickinson, ND, has shattered the myth that charitable organizations must compete with each

other for their piece of a limited pie. United by a commitment to their community, the organizations that belong to the coalition are proactive, innovative and future focused. In the nonprofit world, the line between competition and cooperation can blur beyond perception. While the range of needs seems constantly infinite, resources are habitually scarce. And though nonprofits may target widely varied sectors, their separate missions by and large boil down to a singular goal: Affecting positive change for the common good.

Take those qualities into a vast and thinly-populated region such as southwestern North Dakota, and the effects are multiplied. Nonprofit organizations in low population centers not only have difficulty winning grants and national assistance, but also find themselves constantly appealing to the same contributors for support. These challenges and some resourceful thinking led to the creation of COCO in 1996 to promote philanthropy through education, information and collaborative relationships

“Kevin saw opportunities for us to share costs of expenses such as training and travel, to combine work on common problems, and to form a stronger, more unified base for seeking contributions.” — Kris Fehr

Photo Courtsey Jimmy Emerson 26 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Kris Fehr, Executive Director of the Western Wellness Foundation in Dickinson and former Vice-President of COCO.

Organizing the organizations Kris Fehr, Executive Director of the Western Wellness Foundation in Dickinson and former vice-president of COCO, has spent much of her career in the nonprofit sector. She knows well the challenges that organizations face. “It can often feel like a lonely profession,” she said, because staff is tight and turnover high due to salary restraints coupled with the hard work of securing and managing funds. And staff turnover is expensive. “People need to be driven by the mission of their work, not the money,” she said, and those qualities are

hard to find, and even more difficult for an individual to sustain over time. So any means to maximize use of limited resources were welcomed ideas. In addition, agencies often found themselves competing for contributions from the same donors and sources to solve common problems. So in addition to maximizing resources, there was a great need to minimize duplication of efforts across the region. In the 90s, coalitions and professional associations outside of the nonprofit sector in North Dakota— such as in farming and energy— emerged as models of good business practices. Fehr says that the idea soon caught on as a goal for southwestern North Dakota nonprofit organizations. Kevin J. Thompson—a 1987 graduate of Dickinson State University and currently executive director of the Dickinson State University Foundation—helped lead the regionwide effort to form a nonprofit coalition. “Kevin saw opportunities for us to share costs of expenses such as training and travel, to combine work on common problems, and to form a stronger, more unified base for seeking contributions,” Fehr said.

COCO was formed in 1996 and ever since has been working to build relationships between fundraising entities, potential donors and those who advise people how and where to give in southwest North Dakota.

Better together COCO has grown to now include 19 nonprofit agencies plus associate members from across southwestern North Dakota that work together to advance the following goals: • Promote philanthropy and giving in southwest North Dakota • Provide education for nonprofits to increase their capacity building • Serve as a resource for educational opportunities in North Dakota • Provide networking and support for our nonprofit members • Build collaborative relationships with allied professionals • Provide information to allied professionals and donors about COCO nonprofit members and gifting opportunities • Sponsor the Philanthropist of the Year Award COCO has received sustaining support from the Otto Bremer foundation and the Bush Foundation, among other sponsors. Recently, COCO has formed a partnership with and is partially funded by the Strom Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Dickinson—whose mission is to inspire leadership, develop business, and advance community in the region.

Fisher Industries and its employees was one of two organizations recognized with COCO’s 2009 Outstanding Philanthropists award. Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 27

The benefits of collaboration Historically, efforts of nonprofit organizations across wide and sparse regions have been fragmented. Overlaps in efforts can occur both within a single sector (such as education or human services) as well as among different organizations. When a diverse group of organizations and representatives from the public and private sectors come together to share different perspectives, experiences, and expertise, they are more likely to come up with new and creative solutions to meet the needs of their community Aaron Johanson, current Chair of COCO, outlines the top benefits of collaboration through the coalition: “Knowing what other nonprofits are doing across the area and improving logistics, coordinating time schedules so that agencies are not soliciting the same contributors at the same time, which is especially important in smaller population center, are major benefits,” he points out.

Karen Heidt, Director of Development, Dickinson Public Schools Foundation, present Paul, Joel and Troy Bosch of Bosch Lumber in Dickinson with a 2009 Outstanding Philanthropists award. The award is part of the community-building benefits that COCO offers.

In fact, of the main benefits of an effective coalition is the coordination of service delivery. The coalition has stimulated an increase in communication and information-sharing among members. Information sharing has, in turn, led to increased coordination of programs and services. COCO also helps providers to identify ways facilitate movement toward larger, more permanent solutions. A coalition such as COCO also

promotes the following benefits: • Broad community support • Strength and power in numbers for better reach • Increased impact of influence on funders and governmental policy makers • Added credibility through a united front • Cost efficiencies through economies of scale (such as mailings, meetings) • Networking and partnership opportunities • Shared expenses (such as in travel and training)

Finding or founding a successful coalition

Aaron Johanson, current Chair of COCO, and Julie Raatz, Administrative Assistant, review the COCO newsletter.

28 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Whether you’re a contributor to or member of a nonprofit cause, if you haven’t already, you may want to consider supporting, joining, or even forming a coalition. If so, keep in mind that successful coalitions must have a well-defined mission and clear

expectations set in writing. In addition, here are a few factors to look for: • Diversity of the organization for broad expertise and viewpoints • Strong leadership • Staffing through either a committed board and/or employees • Measures of success that include both measurable goals and ongoing evaluations

Barriers to success As you consider whether a coalition is right for your giving efforts and which coalition to join, consider the following possible downfalls and make sure they are addressed upfront by the coalition: • Competition among groups • Inability to agree on highlevel objectives • Cost to participate

Current COCO Members: ABLE, Inc Badlands Ministries (Medora) Best Friends Mentoring Program/ Western Wellness Foundation Business Challenge Camp ReCreation (Richardton) Community Action

Home on the Range (Sentinel Butte) Hope Christian Academy

Dickinson Catholic Schools

Sacred Heart Benedictine Foundation (Richardton)

Dickinson Museum Center

St. Benedict’s Health Center

Dickinson Public Schools Foundation

St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation

Dickinson State University Foundation

St. Luke’s Home Foundation & Park Avenue Villa

Hill Top Heritage Foundation (Killdeer)

Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation (Medora) West River Health Services Foundation (Hettinger) Associate Members DLN Consulting, Inc. (Deb Nelson) MJK Consulting (Mike J. Kiedrowski). Strom Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (DSU)

Nonprofit coalitions and collaborative organizations The following agencies represent just some of organizations in our region that bring together nonprofit agencies to help maximize contributions and resources: Coalition of Charitable Organizations

MonDak Association of Nonprofits

Northwest Minnesota Foundation

Dickinson, ND (701) 483-2830 1679 6th Ave W PO Box 242 Dickinson, ND 58602

Williston, ND

www.nwmf.org

www.mondaknonprofits.org

(218) 759-2057 or (800) 659-7859 (Minnesota only) 4225 Technology Drive NW Bemidji, MN 56601

Impact Foundation

North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organization

Fargo, ND

www.impactgiveback.org (866) 451-9249 or (701) 271-0263 4152 30th Ave S, Suite 102 Fargo, ND 58104 and 1661 Capitol Way Bismarck, ND 58501

701-572-0223 322 Main St, Suite 104 Williston ND 58801

Bemidji, MN

West Central Initiative Fergus Falls, MN

Mandan, ND

www.wcif.org

www.ndano.org

218-739-2239 1000 Western Ave Fergus Falls, MN 56537

701-258-9101 or 888-396-3266 PO Box 1091 1605 E. Capitol Ave Bismarck, ND 58502

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 29

Nonprofits & Organizations Below is a list of most groups featured in this issue of Today’s Giving. Visit our website at www.todaysgiving.com to view updated information.

Western Minnesota Eventide Living Center 1405 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 | www.eventide.org

Dorothy Day House of Hospitality 714 8th St S, Moorhead, MN 6560 218-233-5763 | www.fmddh.org

Moorhead Thrift Shop Inc 501 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-2995

Sheyenne Crossings 1405 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 | www.eventide.org

Eastern South Dakota Brookings Area United Way Po Box 750, Brookings, SD 57006 605-692-4979 | brookingsunitedway.org

Northeast North Dakota Community Violence Intervention Center 211 S 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-0405 | www.cviconline.org

North Dakota Special Olympics 2616 S 26th St, Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-0331 www.specialolympicsnorthdakota.org

UND Center for Innovation Foundation 4200 James Ray Dr Grand Forks, ND 58203 701-777-3132 | www.innovators.net

University of North Dakota Foundation 3100 University Ave Grand Forks, ND 58202 800-543-8764 | undfoundation.org

Northwest North Dakota Community Action Housing Corp. Region I 120 Washington Ave Williston, ND 58801 1-800-359-2243 | www.willistoncap.org

Dakota Boys Ranch Foundation PO Box 5007 Minot, ND 58702 701-839-7888 | www.dakotaranch.org

Southeast North Dakota Dakota Foundation PO Box 1535, Jamestown, ND 58402 701-252-3420 | dakotafoundation.org

Fargo Air Museum PO Box 8190, Fargo, ND 58109 701-293-8043 | fargoairmuseum.org

Rape & Abuse Crisis Center PO Box 2984, Fargo, ND 58108 701-293-7273 | www.raccfm.com

30 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Sharehouse Foundation 4227 9th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 701-361-1018 | www.sharehouse.org

Village Family Service Center PO Box 9859, Fargo, ND 58106 701-235-3328 | thevillagefamily.org

Wellspring For The World PO Box 9993, Fargo, ND 58106 701-306-9715 www.wellspringfortheworld.com

YWCA Cass Clay 3100 12th Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102 701-232-2547 | www.ywcacassclay.org

Southwest North Dakota Able Incorporated 653-19th St W, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-456-3000 | www.ableinc.net

Badlands Ministries PO Box 305, Medora, ND 58645 701-623-4332 | badlandsministries.org

Business Challenge 291 Campus Dr, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-483-2515 | gobusinesschallenge.com

Camp Recreation Inc PO Box 26, Richardton, ND 58652 701-974-3774 | mysummercamps.com

Community Action Partnership 202 E Villard St, Dickinson, ND 58601 800-359-2243 | www.dickinsoncap.org

Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota 1616 Capitol Way, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-223-1510 www.lssnd.org/dailybread.com

Dickinson Catholic Schools Foundation

Sacred Heart Benedictine Foundation PO Box 364, Richardton, ND 58652 701-974-2121 www.sacredheartmonastery.com

30 7th St W, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-456-4000 | www.stjoeshospital.org

St Lukes Home 242 10th St W, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-483-5000 | www.stlukeshome.com

Dickinson Public Schools Foundation Inc

St. Benedicts Health Center

Dickinson State University Foundation 230 8th Ave W, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-483-2004 | www.dsufamily.com

Hill Top Heritage Foundations PO Box 98, Halliday, ND 58636 701-938-4311

Home On The Range Foundation 16351 I94, Sentinel Butte, ND 58654 701-872-3745 | www.gohotr.org

Hope Christian Academy 2891 5th Ave W, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-225-3919 | www.hcadickinson.org

Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota

North Dakota, Inc. www.pathnd.org

St Josephs Hospital And Health Center

1151 3rd Ave W, Dickinson, ND 58601 dickinsoncatholicschools.k12.nd.us

PO Box 1057, Dickinson, ND 58602 www.dickinson.k12.nd.us/foundation

Families’ making the difference makes all the difference in the world. Join the PATH to healthy families.

Become a foster or adoptive parent

851 4th Ave E, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-456-7242 | www.saint-benedicts.org

Make a financial donation PATH provides an array of family based services You can help in so many ways. 877-766-PATH

Strom Center 291 Campus Dr, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-483-2756 | www.stromcenter.com

The Dickinson Museum Center 188 Museum Dr, E Dickinson, ND 58601 701-456-6225 www.dickinsonmuseumcenter.org

Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation PO Box 198, Medora, ND 58645 1-800-633-6721 | www.medora.com

West River Regional Medical Ctr 1000 Highway 12, Hettinger, ND 58639 701-567-4561 | www.wrhs.com

www.pcand.org

Western Wellness Foundation Inc

Ruth Meirs Hospitality House Inc

PO Box 542, Dickinson, ND 58602 1-877-877-8685 | westernwellness.org

PO Box 2092, Bismarck, ND 58502 701- 222-2108 | www.rmhh.org *Although we try our best to provide the most current information in Today’s Giving, from time to time our records are not accurate. Please let us know at anytime if we need to change your organization’s information.

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Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 31

Unearthing Farm-Equipment Benefits Long After the Fields By Lisa Jackson, Today’s Giving

I grew up in Washburn, North Dakota, watching Dad and Grandpa put in long days on the family farm. As the sun grew warmer, pulling us slowly out of the long winter, I would watch the days get longer and Dad and Grandpa’s skin grow deep shades of tan, and the texture of their skin change from the wind, dirt and cuts as working in the field and on equipment took its annual toll. Like all farmers, their will of steel seemed to always beat the uncertainty of weather and unpredictable crop prices. At the end of each day, season, or career, farm families have worked hard to provide for themselves and community. Not one penny should go to waste! It’s important to ensure our legacies, family harmony and retirement income. Making a gift through estate planning provides more opportunities to keep hard earned dollars within the families and communities we love. Estate planning is not an easy topic to think about, and it’s often difficult to navigate. But, I’ve seen some great opportunities develop when individuals have explored making a gift to charity using a technique called “planned giving“— also known as charitable estate planning, gift planning or integrated charitable planning. The point is that while there are many options depending on your situation, but they all can accomplish five things:

32 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Let’s take a look at one example that actually uses depreciated farm equipment. This also works with unsold grain or cattle. Before you bring these items to an auction consider the following.

PROBLEM Upon retiring in 2008, a farmer has an auction sale of his machinery and receives $200,000 in net-sale proceeds. He is surprised to find a very substantial income tax consequence. His total taxable income for that year, excluding the sale of the machinery, was $50,000. Because the equipment was depreciated over the lifetime of its use, upon its sale the proceeds were re-captured as ordinary income. So, the farmer’s total taxable income was $250,000. He was required to pay the Federal Income Tax Liability of $61,328 and North Dakota Income Tax Liability for $8,586. That’s over $69,900!

5 Benefits of Charitable Estate Planning

There are many benefits of including charitable contributions in your estate plan. Here are five at the top of the list: 1. Help ensure family harmony as assets are transferred to the next generation. 2. Keep more hard earned wealth in the family. 3. Make a significant gift to charity that you maybe thought not possible. 4. Help reduce the amount you will pay in taxes. 5. Gain peace of mind knowing that you have a plan to carry out your wishes for your family members and your interests.

SOLUTION Now, let’s say the farmer first transfers his farm machinery into a charitable remainder trust with his favorite nonprofit organization, instead of just selling it outright at an auction. Then, a designated trustee of this trust sells the farm machinery, and places the proceeds in the trust fund which will produce retirement income for the farmer. Here’s how the picture changes: The farmer’s taxable income is reduced to $50,000. The Federal Income Tax Liability is reduced to $6,698.00 and the North Dakota Income Tax Liability be-

Memories

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www.fblum.cruiseholidays.com email: fblum@cruiseholidays.com 218-849-0755 • 701-866-7170

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 33

Key Points: • •

•

• • •

The designated charity named in the trust receives the corpus of the trust when the trust ends. You (the donor) or the named income beneficiaries (each trust must assign one, but can have multiple) receive income from the trust for life, or for the term of the trust, whichever you choose. Payout distributions are either set dollar amount or percentage rate based on the trust type. Payout is determined by your age (or the beneficiary’s age). Usually it is advised to contribute $100,000 or more to this type of trust. Charitable remainder trusts will help you save on income taxes. Charitable remainder trusts help you avoid capital gains taxes.

Note: The above tax computations are based upon 2008 tax rates. These materials are intended to stimulate thought, and to provide the reader with useful ideas and guidance in the areas of estate planning and charitable planning. The materials do not constitute, and shall not be treated as, legal advice regarding the use of any particular estate planning or other technique, device or suggestion, or any tax or other consequences associated with them. The reader should verify independently all statements made in the materials before applying them to a particular fact pattern, and should determine independently the tax and other consequences of using any particular device, technique or suggestion before implementing the same on his or her own behalf. Today’s Giving does not practice law, nor offer legal advice.

34 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

comes $937. So, the Total Income Taxes equals just $7,635! In other words, the farmer will save $62,279 in federal and state income taxes by using a charitable remainder trust. Stated in a different way, if the farmer sells his farm machinery on his own, he will only have approximately $130,080 remaining after paying his federal and state income tax liability to produce future income. If he were to reinvest this amount and, for example, receive a 5% return on his investment, he will receive $6,504 each year until his death. Through a charitable remainder trust, his income at a 5% payout would be $10,000 or $3,496 more each year. This is just one example of how charitable estate planning could dramatically help with state and federal tax implications. To see the full plan, visit the Today’s Giving website at www.todaysgiving.com.

What is a Charitable Remainder Trust? A charitable remainder trust is a special tax-exempt, irrevocable trust arrangement written to comply with federal tax laws and regulations. When you transfer cash or assets (most often highly appreciated assets) to the trust, you can choose to receive income for life or, a certain term of years (not to exceed 20). In fact, the income can be paid over your life, your spouse’s life, and even your children’s and grandchildren’s lives.

This is just one example of how charitable estate planning could dramatically help with state and federal tax implications. To see the full plan, visit the Today’s Giving website at www.todaysgiving.com.

Stepping Out of the Shadows and Into the Light The Ruth Meiers Hospitality House offers hope and a future to those in need By Dayna Del Val

“It is a fact that you should give hope to the homeless, provide inspiration to the impoverished, establish a one to one relationship that strengthens and encourages individuals, that lifts them from despair,” said former North Dakota Lieutenant Governor Ruth Meiers. As a tireless champion for the underserved throughout her lifetime, the Ruth Meiers Hospitality House in Bismarck stands as a living testimony to her good works. Born in Ross, North Dakota, Ruth Meiers was a farm wife and social worker who had a successful career in the State Legislature before becoming the first woman Lieutenant Governor of North Dakota in 1984. Former Governor George Sinner recalls that “she was like the Energizer Bunny—just tireless in her work for the poor.” As a long-time smoker, lung cancer claimed Meiers’ life in 1987, but even after her diagnosis, she never gave up her desire to provide opportunities for at-risk and homeless people to assist them in improving their own lot. With a mission to “provide housing and supportive services to assist homeless and low income people in achieving self-sufficiency,” it is not surprising, then, that this organization would choose Ruth Meiers as their namesake.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 35

Housing Those in Need The late 1980s saw an explosive growth in the homeless and at-risk populations all across the country. North Dakota was no exception. When the Ruth Meiers Hospitality House (RMHH) opened its doors in 1987, it was a shelter for up to seven homeless men. Very quickly, it became apparent that more services were needed to house more people and serve the ever-growing population of homeless and at-risk people in the Bismarck and Mandan area. Over time, more shelters and temporary housing units were constructed, but even with the new buildings, RMHH was forced to turn away 100s of people a year who needed temporary housing. A capital campaign was started in the early 90s, with a goal of raising $250,000. A building was purchased and renovated to house homeless men and office space in 1994. By 1997, RMHH was housing 75 people on any given night. But providing a safe place to sleep is just the beginning of the overall vision and goal of the RMHH. Providing real independence and self-sustainability to at-risk people and families is what the mission and goal of RMHH really is.

From Homeless to Hopeful

ate, permanent housing for at-risk people. Called “Housing First,” 130 permanent, supportive housing units will be constructed over the next 10 years to provide permanent housing for long-term homeless people. Gunsch continues, “You can keep folks in a shelter for a month here and there, but there’s a shortage of housing for those individuals in our community. They might be bringing in $200 per month, and housing costs might be $400 per month. We’d much rather be able to offer a helping hand here and there and help them become self-sufficient.” Over the course of these next 10 years, the study shows that the cost of providing support to the long-term homeless population through Housing First will be equal to or less than the costs of providing for short-term homelessness. “The plan provides a road map to end long-term homelessness. That accounts for a disproportional use of the system resources. Focusing our efforts on eliminating long-term homelessness makes the most effective use of our scarce resources. Disability and poverty should not sentence a person to a lifetime of long-term homelessness,” adds Gunsch.

In Bismarck and Mandan, there are 276 homeless people More Than Just a Place to Sleep on any given day, with approximately 50 long-term homeWhether a person or family is experiencing long-term less, and that number only reflects those who were actuhomelessness or is in a temporary period of need, Gunsch ally “countable.” Some live in cars, on the streets, or with says, “We have such a variety of programs. It’s a one stop friends and were not part of the 2009 survey.” “Of those shop for everyone, and it makes it easier 276 homeless individuals, 34% are chilfor them.” dren under the age of 18. The number is In addition to temporary housing, great and growing every day. RMHH also has some transitional and For Kelly Gunsch, director of developpermanent housing for men, women, ment at RMHH, there is much to celeand families. brate regarding the success of the House, The Stone Soup Kitchen provides free, but there is also much to be done. The big hot meals and nourishment for the soul goals center around the 10 year collabfour days a week. The Food Pantry and orative plan entitled, “In From the Cold,” Daily Bread Shelf also provide food to developed by the mayors from Bismarck people who need help from time to time and Mandan and the many agencies and or who need recurring food assistance to leaders who work with homelessness Kelly Gunsch, director of stay independent. and hunger in the community. The plan’s development at RMHH overarching goal is to establish immedi-

36 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

A coordinator for RMHH works with the whole network of community partners to find everything necessary to help people get on their feet. RMHH has developed and is part of an incredible series of programs to assist people who are transitioning out of homelessness and into self-sustainability.

Gratitude for All Who Serve Gunsch is quick to point out that the RMHH does not do all this alone. She notes, “We couldn’t do it without the community support and our networking agency partners. We are so grateful Photo circa 1985. Left to right: Former ND Governor Art Link (founding Board member), ND Lt. Governor Ruth Meiers, ND Governor George Sinner. to those folks who are able to make a (Photo taken prior to the founding of Ruth Meiers Hospitality House). financial contribution, who have a little extra for the food pantry, and for those The Baby Boutique provides baby-related items and ofwho are able to give some time to serve lunch to those fers prenatal to caring for your baby education. Expectwho don’t have a hot meal. There are just so many ways ant mothers are referred by other agencies and work at that people can help those who are less fortunate than they other community programs to earn points to shop at are. It’s a challenge for sure, but it’s also very rewarding. the Boutique. You know that you have made a difference, and it’s someThe Used Furniture Barn offers residents moving out of thing you can’t explain.” the shelter and into more permanent homes donated furRuth Meiers championed those who were in need of an niture and household items to begin their new lives. extra helping hand until the day she died. The Ruth Meiers RMHH has also been designated the Single Point of EnHospitality House has taken her personal mission and cretry for the Bismarck/Mandan area as an additional part ated hope for the least, the lost and the lonely by providing of the 10-year plan. This means that 24 hours a day, seven immediate and long-term assistance to the most vulnerdays a week, individuals and families able in the community so they can step can be referred by other agencies, inout of the shadow of homelessness and cluding the police departments and into the light of independence. churches. To offset the burden of any For more information about the Ruth one organization having to find the Meiers Hospitality House or to doresources to provide all the services nate, please visit www.rmhh.org or call to a family or individual, the load is (701) 222.2108. shared by many. Food may come from the RMHH Temporary housing provides safe shelter as families and individuals food pantry one week and Community build independence and selfAction the next; the Salvation Army sustainability. may be able to provide coats, etc.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 37

From the Founders

Until Next Issue

By Shannon Schwiegert, Co-Founder and Editor in Chief, Today’s Giving Shannon Schweigert Co-Founder,Today’s Giving

e couldn’t have been more different. Mrs. Bair took great pride in her Bohemian ways. She was a flower-child who continued to battle the system in the mid-80’s as if the sixties had never ended. I was the youngest in a conservative family of six boys; a good student and a four-

asked something no other teacher had asked before: “What do you want to get out of this class?” When it was my turn, much to the chagrin of my classmates, I responded, “I love telling stories and I want to become a better writer.” Mrs. Bair drew a deep breath and replied, “Then you need to start reading the best storytellers.” I have always believed that we For the next become who we are by absorbing the three years, I best traits of those who teach and made time to inspire us along the way. read all I could from Mrs. Bair’s reading sport, small-town athlete who sel- list. Her devotion inspired me to dom stepped outside the lines. Our pursue a degree in English. The plan paths crossed in the fall of 1982 and was to become a writer, a teacher, a a dream was set into motion. teller of stories. I left for college with Mrs. Bair stepped to the front of her three writing rules firmly enour sophomore English class and sconced in my mind: 1. Know your

38 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

subject. 2. Don’t be afraid to view issues from multiple perspectives. 3. Write what is your passion. I also left with a graduation present from Mrs. Bair; a current edition of the Modern Language Association Handbook inscribed: “I’ll be watching for your byline. Mrs. Bair” The handbook was always close at hand and often referenced as I wrote paper after paper while earning my degree in English. I adhered to Mrs. Bair’s words, researching my subject, looking at it from many angles as I continued to hone writing as my craft. With college degree in hand and my heart set on writing, it was time to find my passion. But the practicalities of life had other plans for me, and the search for my passion and a writing career took many detours. Eventually, through a series of career moves and pure

dumb luck, my passion found me. I began working in fundraising and development in the early 1990’s. As I met people from throughout the region and across the country, I began to notice a very important aspect of giving that changed the way I felt about fundraising. Like many, I thought fundraising was about persuading the prospect to give to the mission of the organization. But I soon learned that those who supported our work had a very personal inspiration for giving. They wanted to give and they had specific reasons for why they gave. Their gifts, I learned, came about after very personal contemplation combining rationale with emotion. A donor’s contribution is an investment in sup-

many detours and wonderful incidental discoveries along the way. Throughout my journey, I have been inspired most by those who take the time to share with others. As you read Today’s Giving magazine, we’re confident that you’ll be both inspired and enlightened through the stories of inspirational people, organizations and philanthropy experts. It’s been a pleasure creating it for you. I hope you enjoy it.

Shannon Schweigert Co-Founder

PS – Mrs. Bair, wherever you are, it has taken 25 years but I have found my passion. My byline appears in Today’s Giving.

ways to receive Today’s Giving

1. Pick it up at most of your favorite local businesses. 2. Sign up online for a subscription to receive Today’s Giving in your mailbox.

www.todaysgiving.com

Those who supported our work had a very personal inspiration for giving. They wanted to give and they had specific reasons for why they gave. port of their beliefs and values; and a vote of confidence for the organization they are supporting. Seeing the personal satisfaction in the faces of fulfilled donors became a passion. I have always believed that we become who we are by absorbing the best traits of those who teach and inspire us along the way. For me, the search for my place and passion has been a long and winding road with

Shannon Schweigert is a founding principal of GivingPoint (a fundraising consulting firm founded in 2007) and founder/editor in chief of Today’s Giving. He has 20 years experience as a fundraiser and financial advisor for organizations including: Jamestown College, Foster Klima & Co., EideBailly, LLP, and Impact Foundation. In addition to his professional work, Shannon serves on the board of directors for Wellspring for the World, a Fargo nonprofit that drills freshwater wells in Africa. He and his wife Holly have two children: Andrew, a freshman at the University of North Dakota, and Alison, a freshman at Fargo Shanley High School.

Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 39

Western Minnesota

February 20–21

January 20, February 24, March 10, April 15, May 11, June 10

Hosted by: Minnesota Finlandia Community Health Sports

2010 Philanthropy Leaders Series

www.minnesotafinlandia.com | 218-751-0041

Minnesota Finlandia Ski Marathon 8:00 a.m., Buena Vista Ski Area, Bemidji, MN

Hosted by: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Metropolitan Ballroom, Golden Valley, MN

March 13

www.mncn.org | 800.289.1904

7th Annual Celtic Festival

Hosted by: Fargo & Moorhead Parks & Recreation February 6

Logging Days 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Buena Vista Ski Area, Bemidji, MN www.bvskiarea.com | 800-777-7958

Old time logging demonstrations & events. Live music, sleigh rides, lumberjack camp meal and more.

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center, Moorhead, MN www.fargoparks.com | 701-241-8160

April 17–18

Area-Wide Spring Yard Sale Weekend Hosted by: Barnesville Main Street Program

February 6–15

Barnesville, MN

Polar Fest

www.barnesvillemn.com

Detroit Lakes, MN www.VisitDetroitLakes.com | 800-542-3992

Ice Tee Golf Tourney, Theatre performances, hockey and curling tournaments, Daddy’s little sweetheart dance. Saturday morning Freeze Your Buns Run and Polar Plunge into Little Detroit Lake at 1 p.m. February 18

The Dallas Brass

Hosted by: Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Organziation 7:00 p.m., Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes, MN

May 20

Lakes Area Start! Heart Walk

Hosted by: American Heart Association 5:00 p.m., Detroit Lakes Pavilion, Detroit Lakes, MN www.americanheart.org | 701-252-5122

Eastern South Dakota February 18

www.dlccc.org | 218-844-SHOW (7469)

Little Black Dress for MS Luncheon

Adults: $22 Students: $11.

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Sioux Falls Convention Center, Sioux Falls, SD

February 13

Hosted by: National Multiple Sclerosis Society

www.littleblackdressforms.org | 605-336-7017

10th Annual Ice Fishing Challenge

February 19–21

12:00 p.m., Lake LeHomme Dieu, Alexandria, MN

Annual Artists of the Plains Show

Hosted by: Viking Sportsmen, Inc and Sertoma International www.icefishingchallenge.org

The entry fee is $35 if purchased before January 29, and $45 after that date.

40 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

Holiday Inn City Centre, Souix Falls, SD www.augie.edu | 605-274-4007

February 20–21

April 17–18

Bow Wow Boogie

Red River Valley 2010 Motorcycle Show

Eagles Club, Aberdeen, SD

Alerus Center Ballroom, Grand Forks, ND

www.anewleashonlife.net | 605-226-1200

www.rrvmnd.org | 218-695-2082

A casual dinner with a silent auction, split pot, and pick-aprize table.

Proceeds donated to local charities. Tickets:$5 for adults. Free for Kids 10 and younger with paying adult.

March 12–13

Northwest North Dakota

Hosted by: Aberdeen Area Humane Society

Britton Area Winter Festival

Hosted by: Red River Valley Motorcyclists

Hosted by: Britton Area Chamber Britton Auditorium, Britton, SD

April 30

605-448-5323

Hosted by: Minot State University

April 17, May 8

Walk MS: 2010

Hosted by: National Multiple Sclerosis Society

27th Annual MSU Gala Dinner & Auction Holiday Inn, Minot, ND www.minotstateu.edu | 701-858-3234

Tickets:$50 per person.

Sioux Falls (April 17), Aberdeen (May 8), and Watertown, SD (May 8)

May 8

www.nationalmssociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

Walk MS: 2010

Northeast North Dakota February 6

Toast to Winter! Benefit Dinner & Silent Auction Hosted by: North Dakota Museum of Art 5:30 p.m., Grand Forks, ND 701-777-4195

February 18

The Wedding Singer 7:30 p.m., Chester Fritz Auditorium, Grand Forks, ND www.cfa.und.edu | 701-777-4090

March 6

Special Olympics North Dakota Polar Plunge Hosted by: Special Olympics North Dakota

Hosted by: National Multiple Sclerosis Society 9:00 a.m. Check-in -10:00 a.m. Start, Minot State University Dome, Minot, ND www.nationalmssociety.org | 1-800-344-4867

Southeast North Dakota February 13

Sweetheart’s Ball

Hosted by: Ronald McDonald House Holiday Inn, Fargo, ND www.rmhcfargo.org | 701-232-3980

Tickets are $75 each. February 18–20

Cares for Kids Radiothon

Hosted by: MeritCare Children’s Hospital

9:00 a. -12:00 p.m., Canad Inn, Grand Forks, ND

Broadcast live on FM radio stations Y94 (93.7 FM), Bob 95 (95.1 FM) and Mojo (104.7 FM), Fargo, ND

www.specialolympicsnorthdakota.org | 701-746-0331

www.meritcare.com | 877- 478-5437

March 26–27

February 19

2010 Rugby Spring Expo

Little Black Dress for MS Luncheon

Rugby Armory, Rugby, ND

Hosted by: National Multiple Sclerosis Society

www.rugbynorthdakota.com | 701-776-5846

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Ramada Plaza Suites, Fargo, ND www.littleblackdressforms.org | 701-235-2678

April 23

2010 Relay For Life of University of North Dakota Hosted by: American Cancer Society

7:00 p.m., Memorial Stadium, Grand Forks, ND www.cancer.org | 800-227-2345 Winter 2010 Today’s Giving 41

March 2–6

February 14

Fargo Film Festival

For the Love of a Pet Dinner & Artisan Auction

The Fargo Theatre, Fargo, ND www.fargofilmfestival.org | 701-239-8385

Hosted by: West Dakota Vet Clinic

5:00 p.m., Grand Dakota Lodge, Dickinson, ND www.lovingpetsinneed.com | 701-483-0240

March 3

Red River Valley Heart Ball

Hosted by: American Heart Association 6:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m., Ramada Crystal Ballroom, Fargo, ND www.americanheart.org | 701-252-5122

March 11

Springin’ For Jazz

Hosted by: Jazz Arts Group of Fargo - Moorhead 5:30 p.m., Fargo Holiday Inn, Great Hall, Fargo, ND 218-359-4JAZZ (4529)

Win tasting, hors D’oeuvres, live musci, and a live and silent auction. Tickets: $40 April 9

Northern Plains Chapter Association of Fundraising Professionals Conference 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Gladstone Inn & Suites, Jamestown, ND www.afpnet.or | 218-745-6008

April 17

Dine & Bid

Hosted by: Jamestown College Jamestown College, Jamestown, ND www.jc.edu | 701-252-3467

May 19

Champagne social, dinner and auction. Tickets are $40 couple & $25 single. February 23

Death By Chocolate

Hosted by: Girl Scout - Dakota Horizons Council 6:00 p.m., Radison Inn, Bismarck, ND www.gsdakotahorizons.org | 701-223-4525

February 28

18th Annual St. Benedict’s Candlelight Dinner Hosted by: Alana/St. Ben’s Health Center

6:00 p.m., Grand Dakota Lodge, Dickinson, ND 701-456-7242

This evening is titled “Mardi Gras.” Dinner reservations are $45 per person. March 3

Bowling Tournament at Midway Lanes Hosted by: Alzheimer’s Association

12:00 p.m., Midway Lanes, Bismarck, ND www.alz.org/mnnd | 701-258-4933

This tournament is open to four person teams (limted to the first 52 teams) for $100/team. March 6

Annual Make-A-Wish Benefit Hosted by: Make-A-Wish Foundation

Sister’s Path Spring Fling

4:30 p.m., Eagles Club, Dickinson, ND

Hosted by: ShareHouse

www.makeawish.org | 701-590-0665

5:30-9:30 p.m. Ramada Inn Crystal Ballroom II & III, Fargo, ND

A Silent Auction , Dinner, Live Auction, Dance. Tickets: Adults $10/children $5.

www.sharehouse.org | 701-478-1511 Ext. 311

Southwest North Dakota February 13

Winter Festival

Hosted by: Cross Ranch State Park 3:00 - 7:00 p.m., Cross Ranch State Park, Center, ND www.parkrec.nd.gov | 701-794-3731

Horse drawn sleigh rides, cross country skiing, winter ecology program and more.

42 Today’s Giving Winter 2010

April 22

Annual Strom Conference Hosted by: Strom Center

DSU Student Center, Dickinson, ND www.dickinsonstate.edu/stromconference | 701-483-2756

If you ask Jamestown’s Betty Hjelmhaug why she is a committed volunteer for Special Olympics she’ll tell you, “Having been a part of it as a volunteer and a parent, I see how important the program is to the participants and their families. In return I see their happiness and sense of selfworth all in a simple gesture – smiles on their faces.” Betty began her affiliation with Special Olympics in 1988 when her daughter Heather started participating. Since that time she has taken on many roles: coach, fundraiser, event organizer and advocate. Betty was named to the Special Olympics North Dakota Board of Directors in 2004, the same year she received the organization’s outstanding volunteer award. Editor’s Note: Each issue of Today’s Giving will include “Faces of Giving” to recognize and thank some of those across our region whose actions serve as both leadership and inspiration for thoughtful, meaningful contributions that improve the lives of others. Do you know of someone who fits the profile? If so, please send recommendations to info@todaysgiving.com or mail to Faces of Giving, 1407 1st Ave North, Fargo, ND 58104.

After 31 years at Fargo’s Woodrow Wilson Community High School—an alternative school for students at risk of school failure—his remarkable, award-filled teaching career has in itself a left a positive, indelible impact on the community. But in addition, since 1995 science teacher Gary Brekke has volunteered summers and weekends at Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity (LAHFH), building and supervising build sites, and teaching volunteers. His work and contributions have directly led to the creation of 31 homes to date in Fargo-Moorhead to help eliminate sub-standard housing and homelessness. The LAHFH affiliate was founded in 1991 and is on track for its current goal of building an average six homes annually. See www.lakeagassizhabitat.org for volunteer and contribution opportunities.

Pam Grugel of Moorhead, MN, takes volunteering very seriously, touching so many people

through her community service. Each week, Pam visits Eventide Living Center in Moorhead to lead hymns for those who live there. She also helps stock food weekly at the local food pantry, and she and her family prepare meals periodically for those at the Dorothy Day House. Pam travels to the Minnesota capital annually and advocates for government support on funding for those with disabilities.

In 1975, Dorothy Kjelland of Moorhead, MN teamed up with several other community members to start The Moorhead Thrift Store, a second-hand shop, with the goal of giving proceeds back to the community. After 35 years, sales of items donated to and sold at the store are still benefiting local pantries and shelters. Running the store and keeping books as a community service was a daily routine for Kjelland for 38 years, until in 2008 when she “retired” from the day-to-day activities at a very young-at-heart age of 83. Nevertheless, each Tuesday she still volunteers at the store to help keep things running smoothly.

Abe Sakak, COO and Myron Thompson, CEO of Food Management Investors/Apple Core

Enterprises got their start with their first Applebee’s in Minot, ND. Now they have 30 restaurants in North Dakota, Minnesota, California, and Arizona. More than successful restaurateurs, over the last two decades they have worked hard to develop a giving culture by helping veterans, schools, churches and other organizations through community events such as the Veteran’s Day Pancake Feed, DECA Breakfast, Dining to Donate and Tip A Cop Fundraiser for Special Olympics. Since they began, these events and others have raised over a quarter of a million dollars.