Duluth-Superior Area Foundation Announces Touchstone Awards

The Duluth-Superior Area Community Foundation announced the 11th annual Touchstone Awards recognizing outstanding nonprofit programs. Six organizations that have provided unique and high-quality programming, delivered services in new ways, and made creative use of resources were awarded in the "Above and Beyond" focus.

"We are delighted to honor six outstanding nonprofit organizations this year," said Abbot Apter, chair of the foundation's board of trustees. "These six organizations were selected for Touchstone Awards because they all exceeded what they proposed to accomplish in their grant proposals to the Community Foundation."

Touchstone Gold Award Winner:

AccountAbility Minnesota's Duluth Volunteer Tax Assistance Program was chosen because of the significant impact the organization has made on the lives of low-income and underserved populations in the Duluth-Superior region. The program, which helps individuals and families claim tax credits they are due, exceeded their goal of returning $600,000 in tax refunds and credits by nearly $100,000, working with a primarily volunteer staff. The award includes a $5,000 grant to the organization.

Touchstone Silver Award Winner:

Northern Communities Land Trust's Building Materials Recovery Program was chosen for its unique approach to construction that minimizes damage to the environment by reusing building materials rather than disposing in a landfill. The organization also provides job opportunities and training to low-income individuals. The award includes a $2,500 grant to the organization.

Touchstone Bronze Award Winners:

• Arrowhead Regional Corrections — Duluth Drug Court
• Center Against Sexual and Domestic Assault (CASDA) — Court Watch
• Duluth-Superior Symphony Association — Seven Deadly Sins Concert Series
• Grant Community School Collaborative — Program Salary Support

During the past 11 years, the foundation has presented the awards to 22 nonprofit organizations.

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