04.06 - 2005 Donation to Central Minnesota Initiative Foundation

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June 23, 2004 INITIATIVE FOUNDATION Kathy Malacha, Mayor City of Pequot Lakes 31108 Government Dr PO Box 361 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472-0361 RE: 2005 Budget Request for Initiative Foundation Support of$500. Dear Mayor Malacha and Members of the Pequot Lakes City Council, Since 1986 the Initiative Foundation has been focused on nothing more . . . and nothing less . . . than the health, vitality and sustainability of communities within the 14-county area we serve. Initially begun as a means for the McKnight Foundation to extend its influence outside the metro area, the Minnesota Initiative Foundations (MIF) model is today nationally recognized for its citizen-centered approach to community development. We recognize the significant strengths and assets that already exist here in Central Minnesota and build upon them with three broad areas of support: • Partnering Programs that increase the capacity of local citizens to create a shared vision and then make it a reality • Economic Development in the form of gap financing and loan guarantees for the purpose of creating and/or retaining living wage jobs • Grant Making for projects that will enhance community life by positively impacting any of our key focus areas: Children, Youth and Families; Environmental Stewardship; Technology Utilization; Embracing Diversity; Economic Stability; Capacity of Non- Profit Organizations While core values, ethical principles and lofty visions make great copy, they also serve to keep us grounded and focused. I hope you will agree, however, that above all else is the Initiative Foundation's demonstrated history of practicing what we preach. We live out our values in real time, in real communities and in the experiences of real people . . . all to the benefit of this beautiful region we are fortunate to call "home." I invite you to refer to the information enclosed with this mailing for a fuller picture of"who we are and what we do." Central Minnesota communities are in the midst of some very challenging times and by virtue of our strategic viewpoint, the Foundation Board and Staff are keenly aware of the issues you must face. Tightened budgets, balancing infrastructure with the pace of growth, the social impact of meth labs, alternatives to "smokestack chasing" for rural community economic development, affordable housing issues . . . the list goes on. We continue to believe in the collective willpower and intellect of committed local citizenry as the answer to these and any issues that arise. "Local people know best. " The potential is here, and together we can unlock it!