The Initiative Foundation's nonprofit grants and leadership programs help people to help themselves. With the support of thousands, the Foundation is committed to developing a Central Minnesota climate in which every person has an opportunity to achieve success. With your help, through a gift to the Foundation's general fund, we can address the region's child care shortage, create economic opportunity and make our communities attractive, healthy places where families live, work, give and play.
In 1986, the farm crisis was taking its toll on Central Minnesota. In response, neighbors and partners gathered to support one another. From this willingness to lift up and give hope to our friends, the Initiative Foundation was created, and since that time you've helped us invest millions of dollars in grants, loans and scholarships across our region. Despite incredible progress, our communities and neighborhoods--and the people who live here--face new challenges.
Your support will help Central Minnesota address a shortfall of more than 17,000 child care slots-a deficit that is affecting family prosperity by keeping parents sidelined from the workforce. Your support will help identify new workforce opportunities as businesses operate below capacity due to a shortage of available skilled workers. Your support will help nonprofits as they see more people seeking help for addiction, mental health emergencies and basic necessities such as food and shelter.
Through your support, the Initiative Foundation's grants and programs bring prosperity to more of Central Minnesota. We do this through partnerships and advocacy to support dislocated worker training, youth career opportunities and business financing to diversify the region's economy. We also work with local governments to connect with businesses, revitalize downtowns and enhance environmental and recreational amenities that improve Central Minnesota's quality of life.
