Initiative Foundation Supports Economic Development, Social Services in Central Minnesota

The Initiative Foundation, Little Falls, has shown its commitment to economic development and social services in central Minnesota with its latest round of grantmaking.

In the area of economic development, the foundation provided $7,500 to St. Cloud Housing and Redevelopment Authority to begin implementation of a three-year plan to develop and retain businesses in the St. Cloud area. The foundation also awarded $2,500 to Small Business Development Center at Central Lakes College in Brainerd to develop financial reporting systems for emerging technology-based business ventures. Crow Wing County received a $2,500 grant to support the development of county ordinances aligned with its new comprehensive plan, which addresses economic development.

In the area of social services, the foundation awarded $10,000 to New Pathways in Cambridge to support the start-up of an alternative shelter that employs churches, case managers and host families to care for homeless people. The People Connection in Fosston received a $25,000 grant to help move 12 low-income families out of poverty through the support of local mentors. The foundation also provided $7,500 to Guardian Angels of Elk River to help volunteers from faith communities provide individual support to elderly, chronically ill and disabled adults, allowing them to maintain their independence.

In total, the Initiative Foundation awarded 20 grants totaling $126,500. For a complete list of grants, visit the foundation's Web site.

top