The Delano Area Community Foundation

The Delano Area Community Foundation is a Partner Fund of the Initiative Foundation led by an advisory board of local volunteers who have made a commitment to strengthen our communities. Revitalized in 2014, our goal is to build a constant source of capital and income to meet the needs and interests of the Delano area far into the future.

Community foundations are tax-exempt public charities serving thousands of people who share a common interest – improving the quality of life in their area. As your community’s foundation, we provide the leadership to help people give back to the Delano area with measured impact and great meaning.

As local volunteers, we know our neighbors, share your interests and are invested in the future of our community. Our partnership with the Initiative Foundation combines local knowledge and leadership with professional expertise and guidance to identify community needs, serve donors and manage our investments.

By promoting local philanthropy, we strive to strengthen our community by connecting people, resources and needs. Our endowment fund is a charitable investment account in which the principal contributions are never spent; only the earnings provide a flexible, dependable funding stream to support important projects.

Funding Priorities

Improve the quality and scope of educational programming to residents

Promote community development and appearance

Enrich the artistic and cultural climate

Increase and diversify recreational activities

Board Members

Lloyd Griep, Chair

Tom Schaffer, Vice Chair

Nick Neaton, Secretary

Sarah Hellmich, Treasurer

Mark Gaalswyk

Melissa Gaalswyk

Steve Heil

Maria Petersen

Emily Victory

Created in 1986, the Initiative Foundation is powering possible to help Central Minnesota people build and sustain thriving communities. The Foundation serves the 14 counties of Central Minnesota, providing nonprofit grants, business loans, leadership training and an array of donor services. We believe that local people have the greatest sum of initiative, knowledge and relationships to achieve a brighter future.

In partnership with Delano Area Community Foundation, the Initiative Foundation oversees and manages financial contributions for the fund. The Foundation also provides staff support to the advisory board and ensures compliance with legal and professional standards. These services allow volunteer leaders to focus on meeting community needs and enhancing the local quality of life. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, contributions to the fund are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Initiative Foundation Website