CMCF 40th Anniversary Celebration of Philanthropy
2025-09-04 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | The Park Event Center, 500 Division Street, Waite Park, MN, 56387, United States
Join us as we commemorate 40 years of community impact, generosity, and visionary leadership at the Central Minnesota Community Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration of Philanthropy.
This special evening is a chance to reflect on decades of giving, connect with community members, and celebrate those who help build a better future for Central Minnesota.
Evening Schedule:

5:00 p.m. – Social hour featuring hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar

6:00 p.m. – Program and award presentations

We’re proud to honor the following exceptional individuals whose commitment to philanthropy and community is truly inspiring:

Alex Didier Award in Philanthropy
Lee and Vicki Morgan
Lee and Vicki Morgan have dedicated their lives to philanthropy and community service. Through business success, volunteer leadership, and the Morgan Family Foundation, they’ve supported causes from education to environmental advocacy—always with a shared passion for giving back.

Professional Award in Philanthropy
Stefanie BrownA Partner at Rinke Noonan, Stefanie helps clients navigate estate planning, business law, and real estate with foresight and care. Her efforts not only support families and businesses but also nurture the next generation of leaders across our region. Stefanie lives in St. Cloud with her husband and two children.
The Social Trust Award
Farhiya ImanFarhiya is a tireless advocate and community leader in St. Cloud. As a social worker with over a decade of experience, and founder of both Arise Autism Center and House of Sanctuary, she works to provide culturally responsive care and build lasting bridges of trust and support for underserved communities.
NEW: Barb Carlson Award – Presented by the Women’s Fund
Maryanne MahowaldWe’re thrilled to unveil the Barb Carlson Award, honoring the legacy of Women’s Fund founder Barb Carlson. The inaugural award goes to Maryanne Mahowald, a passionate philanthropist and long-time volunteer who fully embodies Barb’s belief that:
“Giving of anything—your time, talent, passion, energy, or resources—is what makes living worthwhile.” – Barb Carlson

Let’s celebrate the power of generosity and the people who make our communities stronger. We can’t wait to welcome you!
RSVP today and be part of this milestone moment in Central Minnesota’s philanthropic story.

CFCC Celebration of Philanthropy Dinner
2025-09-10 17:00 - 20:00 | Chaska Event Center, 3210 Chaska Blvd., Chaska, MN, 55318, United States
The Community Foundation for Carver County would like to invite you to join us to celebrate our community and honor individuals and organizations that have generously contributed to making it a great place to live, work and play.
This year we will be presenting Awards in Philanthropy to Darrel Sudheimer, Elroy Latzig and Swagelok Minnesota. Their contributions of time, talent and resources have made a significant difference across Carver County, and we are honored to be recognizing them for everything they have done.

PACF "United By Generosity" Gala
2025-09-27 17:00 - 21:00 | Highline Construction, 16124 Old Lake Road, Paynesville, MN, 56362, United States
***Registration for this event is now closed as we have reached capacity. To be added to the waitlist, please complete the RSVP registration form to be notified if spots open up.
Join us on Saturday, September 27 for the annual Paynesville Area Community Foundation Gala as we enjoy an evening of celebration, connection, and community spirit. We will reflect on the meaningful moments of the past year, recognize outstanding philanthropic leaders, and look ahead to the future of philanthropy in our community.
2025 Award Recipients

Grant Fuchs – Emerging Leader Award
Bill Virant – Community Impact Award
Crow River Trail Guards – Innovation in Community Development Award
Paynesville Farmers Market (Tiffany Farrier & Dick Geers) – Innovation in Community Development Award
Event Schedule:
5:00 – 5:45 P.M. – Social Hour & Silent Auction
5:45 – 7:00 P.M. – Welcome, Invocation, and Dinner
7:00 – 9:00 P.M. – Program, Awards Presentations and Live Auction

Silent Auction
The online silent auction is now LIVE! Visit www.pacfgala.org to view the items and start bidding on your favorites. Need not be present at the gala to participate. All bidding ends on Saturday, September 27 at 6:45pm.

AACF Annual Celebration of Philanthropy Social
2025-09-29 16:30 - 18:00 | Carlos Creek Winery, 6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308, United States
Join us as we celebrate philanthropy and honor those who have given so much to the Alexandria area.
Ruth McDonald Award in Philanthropy Recipients – Jim & Anne Eidsvold and David & Loni Kjos
Social Hour & Appetizers 4:30 – 5:30PM
Program & Award Presentation 5:30 – 6:00PM

WACF Bridge Builders - Corporate Donation Process for Non-Profits
2025-09-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Willmar Public Library, 410 5th St SW, Willmar, MN, 56201, United States
Join us for a free event designed to connect and inspire nonprofit leaders! This is a great opportunity to network with peers, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights. Enjoy a complimentary lunch while engaging in meaningful conversations and learning how to strengthen your organization’s impact.
Topic: Corporate Donation Process for Non Profits
Speakers: Coming soon!
Admission is free, but registration is required to reserve your spot. Deadline to register is September 25th. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and grow!
Brought to you by the Willmar Area Community Foundation

Willmar Area Community Foundation Awards in Philanthropy Celebration
2025-10-09 17:30 - 21:30 | Willmar Conference Center, 240 23rd St. SE, Willmar, MN, 56201, United States
***Registration for this event is now closed as we have reached capacity.***
Join us for our Awards in Philanthropy Celebration on Thursday, October 9th at the Willmar Conference Center. We are so excited to celebrate our community and honor those who make a positive impact on our region via philanthropy while showcasing Kandiyohi County.
2025 Award in Philanthropy Honorees
Loren and Smitty Luschen – Award in Philanthropy
Lake Region Bank – Community Builder Award
Wayne Nelson – Innovative Impact Award
Schedule of the Evening
5:30-6:30pm – Social
6:30-8pm – Dinner and Program
Afterglow to follow
Secure your spot by registering today! Space is limited.

Coffee and Collaboration - St. Cloud Area Nonprofit Gathering
2025-10-30 09:00 - 10:00 | American Heritage National Bank, 2915 2nd Street South, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
Join fellow nonprofit leaders for Coffee and Collaboration—an energizing hour of connection, creativity, and community. Step away from the daily grind, swap ideas with peers, and discover new ways St. Cloud nonprofits can support one another. No slides, no speeches—just great conversation, shared problem-solving, and fresh ideas to fuel your work.
Date: Thursday, October 30
Time: 9:00-10:00AM
Location: American Heritage Bank, 2915 2nd Street South, Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Sponsored by: Central Minnesota Community Foundation, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and Initiative Foundation

Webinar - Smart Giving in Shifting Times: Tax Wise Strategies for Charitable Impact in 2025 and Beyond
2025-10-30 15:00 - 16:30 | Webinar
Join us for a conversation on the 2025 tax law changes and what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) means for charitable giving, estate planning, and corporate philanthropy. We’ll explore how donating appreciated assets can reduce taxes and increase your impact. Together, we’ll discuss forward-looking strategies—like bunching gifts and donor-advised funds—to help you stay ahead of upcoming deduction limits.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS FREE WEBINAR
Key topics will include:

Understand the 2025 Tax Law Changes
Learn how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) affects charitable deductions, estate planning, and corporate giving—and what it means for your philanthropic strategy.
Maximize Impact with Appreciated Assets
Discover how donating stock and other appreciated assets can reduce taxes and increase the value of your gift to nonprofits.
Plan Ahead for 2026 and Beyond
Explore smart giving strategies—like bunching donations and using donor-advised funds—to stay ahead of new deduction limits and AGI floors.

We are thrilled to welcome Joe Thiegs to speak about this topic and share his expertise with us. Learn more about our speaker below!

Joe Thiegs is a trusted charitable giving and philanthropic advisor, speaker, and trainer with many years of experience, including as an estate planning attorney at Dorsey & Whitney, a planned giving officer at the University of Minnesota Foundation, Associate Director of Advancement at the U of M Law School, and Planned Giving Director at Minnesota Public Radio and American Public Media. Now President and Owner of the consulting firm Generoworks, Joe also is a Senior Vice President with Thompson & Associates and is the National Planned Giving Advisor for Greater Public.
He has been Chair of the Minnesota Gift Planning Association’s Board of Directors, and has been active with the Minnesota State Bar Association, having served on the Probate & Trust Law Section’s Governing Council and Legislation Committee. Joe was on the MSBA task force evaluating and making recommendations regarding UPMIFA prior to its adoption in Minnesota. Joe is a graduate of Northwestern University and the University of Minnesota Law School.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS FREE WEBINAR

Central Minnesota Community Foundation "Brews & News" - Housing Tax Credit
2025-10-30 16:30 - 18:00 | Iron Street Distillery, 539 East St. Germain Street, Suite 101, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
Join the Central Minnesota Community Foundation (CMCF), for its next Professional Advisor Event: “Brews & News” event at Iron Street Distillery.
Featured Speaker: Chad Bouley with Central MN Habitat for Humanity
Topic: Housing Tax Credit
This event gives professional advisors the opportunity to network within the community, through CMCF.

"Share the Joy" with the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation
2025-12-02 17:00 - 19:00 | White Bear Country Inn, 4940 US-61, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110, United States
Celebrate the spirit of the season at Share the Joy, hosted by the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation! Join us for an uplifting evening filled with community connection, delicious appetizers, and holiday cheer.
Learn about the incredible local programs and organizations that received grant funding during the 2025 grant round, and see firsthand how generosity is making a difference in our community.
This festive gathering is free to attend, but registration is required. Come share in the joy with friends, colleagues, and neighbors as we celebrate the season of giving!

Educational Webinar - "Year End Giving: How Community Foundations Make Local Giving Easy"
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:30 | Webinar
What does your local community foundation really do—and how can it help you make a difference right where you live?
Join a panel of local community foundation executive directors for an informative and interactive session that will demystify how community foundations work and how you can partner with them to make your charitable giving more meaningful and effective.
You’ll learn:

How to easily discover local nonprofit projects that match your passions

Ways to support your favorite causes while maximizing tax benefits

The different types of funds and assets your community foundation can accept

Tips for smart and impactful year-end giving

Free to attend.
CLICK HERE to register via Zoom.

Derby Community Foundation's Bronze Ball: A Toast to Generosity
2026-02-28 18:00 - 21:00 | The Venue at Madison Ave Central Park, 512 E Madison Ave, Derby, KS, 67037, United States
Bronze Ball is Sold Out!
Thank you for your incredible support — the Bronze Ball is officially sold out.
To be added to the wait list, please email derby@communitygiving.org with the following information:

Number of tickets requested

Name of each ticket holder

Email address

Phone number

If tickets become available, waitlist members will be contacted in the order requests are received.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Join us for an unforgettable evening to celebrate philanthropy and community engagement in Derby. Come together with community leaders and friends as we recognize and honor those who have made significant contributions to our community.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring cocktails, dinner, music, silent and live auctions, inspiring stories, and heartfelt awards—plus, new this year, Dueling Pianos for high-energy, interactive entertainment. Your presence will help us continue the important work of building a stronger, more vibrant community.
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 9:00pm
Location: The Venue
$75 for individual registration
This year, the DCF Board of Directors will present the Elizabeth Kinch Generosity Award, the Spirit of Philanthropy Award, and the Community Builder Award at the Bronze Ball.

Educational Webinar - "When Land Becomes A Legacy"
2026-03-18 15:00 - 16:30 | Webinar
For many families, farmland represents generations of work, values, and connection to place. Increasingly, donors and their advisors are exploring how land can also support charitable goals.
This webinar features a conversation with Jaclyn D. Schroeder, Vice President – Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Scott Starkweather, Vice President – Farm Manager, and Sara Carlson, Executive Director – Willmar Area Community Foundation, as they walk through the charitable giving considerations of farmland and share a case example of land gifted to a community foundation and now managed by U.S. Bank Farm Management Services.
By participating in this webinar you will gain insight into:

How charitable gifts of farmland are structured
Common questions donors raise when land is involved
The role of professional farm management after a gift
How community foundations can help align donor intent with long-term stewardship

Free to attend.
CLICK HERE to register via Zoom.

ROCORI Area Community Foundation Trivia
2026-03-28 17:00 - 20:00 | The Great Blue Heron, 305 5th Ave S, Cold Spring, MN, 56320, United States
Join us for an evening of fun and trivia to benefit the ROCORI Area Community Foundation! Hosted by Jeopardy! Champion Gary Bechtold, get your team together and come on out.
All proceeds benefit the RACF Community Builder Fund
Doors open at 5:00PM; Trivia begins at 6:30PM

Cost – $200 per team (4-6 members); Limit 30 teams

Minimum age to play is 13 years old. Taco bar available for purchase.
Mulligan $20 Each/Limit 2 per team. Available for purchase at event.
Registrations deadline – March 27 by 12:00pm

WACF Bridge Builders - Navigating Sensitive Issues While Preserving Donor Trust
2026-03-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Willmar Public Library, 410 5th St SW, Willmar, MN, 56201, United States
Join us for a free event designed to connect and inspire nonprofit leaders! This is a great opportunity to network with peers, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights. Enjoy a complimentary lunch while engaging in meaningful conversations and learning how to strengthen your organization’s impact.
Topic: Navigating Sensitive Issues While Preserving Donor Trust
Speakers: Coming soon!
Admission is free, but registration is required to reserve your spot. Deadline to register is March 26. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and grow!
Brought to you by the Willmar Area Community Foundation

L.E.A.D of Kandiyohi County Class of 2026 Graduation
2026-04-16 12:00 - 14:00 | Willmar Conference Center, 240 23rd St. SE, Willmar, MN, 56201, United States
Join us as we celebrate the accomplishments of the L.E.A.D. of Kandiyohi County Class of 2026! This special event honors the dedication and growth of participants who have completed this leadership program, equipping them with the skills and connections to make a lasting impact in our community.
Enjoy a lunch of roasted pork loin with white wine and mushroom demi glaze, glazed carrots, and rosemary baby red potatoes while listening to the inspiring reflections from our graduates and connect with local leaders and supporters.
Reserve your seat today and be part of this celebration.
📅 Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026📍 Location: Willmar Conference Center🎟 Tickets: $31 per person (includes lunch)
Sponsored by Willmar Area Community Foundation and Southwest Initiative Foundation.

Central Minnesota Community Foundation Spring Social
2026-04-16 17:00 - 19:00 | Iron Street Distillery, 539 East St. Germain Street, Suite 101, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
We would like to cordially invite you to join us for the Central Minnesota Community Foundation’s Spring Social. Join us for an evening of good company and delicious food.
Hors d’oeuvres provided and drinks will be available for purchase through Iron Street Distillery.
If you have any questions please reach out to our team by email at cmcf@communitygiving.org or by calling (320) 253-4380.

EmpowerCF 2026 - Annual Conference for Empowering Community Foundations
2026-04-22 12:00 - 2026-04-23 15:00 | The Park Event Center, 500 Division Street, Waite Park, MN, 56387, United States
Community foundations play a unique role in their communities and the work is constantly evolving. This conference brings together board members, staff, and volunteers from small to mid-sized foundations to share ideas, explore practical strategies, and learn from peers facing many of the same opportunities and challenges. You’ll leave with new tools, fresh perspective, and connections that can support your foundation’s work long after the conference ends.
With a full lineup of expert speakers, breakout sessions, and interactive discussions, you’ll gain practical insights and fresh ideas to take back to your organization. Past conferences have included over fifteen breakout sessions, keynote presentations, and numerous networking opportunities. Attendees consistently leave energized, informed, and ready to make a greater impact in their communities.

Registration Details

Individual Registration – $299 Free for All Current CG Partner Foundation Board and Staff Members.

Accommodations

Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud || 550 Division Street, Waite Park, MN || 320-640-7990For the room block, click here or contact the hotel and ask for group code 90C.
Residence Inn St. Cloud || 450 Division Street, Waite Park, MN || 320-640-0200

Conference Schedule
Wednesday, April 22nd
11:00am: Registration Opens
12:00pm: Lunch
12:45pm: Keynote Speaker
2:00-3:00pm: Session Block
3:15-4:15pm: Session Block
4:30-7:00pm: Networking & Happy Hour with Appetizers and Cash Bar
Thursday, April 23rd
7:45-8:30am: Breakfast/Networking
8:30-9:30am: Keynote Speaker
9:45-10:45am: Session Block
11:00am-12:00pm: Session Block
12:00-12:45pm: Lunch/Networking
12:45-1:45pm: Keynote Speaker
2:00-5:00pm: CFLeads Session (Be sure to indicate you are attending this additional educational opportunity during registration)
To view the entire schedule, click here.

Plenary Sessions

Breakout Sessions
Sessions that will be offered include the following:

Impact Investing: Our Journey from Wall Street to Main Street
Looking the Gift Horse in the Mouth: Best Practices for Effective Gift Management
Are We Funding Division or Multiplication?
Building Capacity of Rural Community Foundations
Supporting Individuals: Emergency Assistance Funds

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL OF THE SESSION DESCRIPTIONSCLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL SCHEDULE

CFLeads Session – Thursday, April 23rd – 2:00-5:00pmThis is an additional educational opportunity that follows the EmpowerCF Conference. Please indicate your interest to attend this when you register for the conference. Participants in this session are eligible to receive a travel stipend from CFLeads. More information will be available upon registration.
Building Common Ground: Community Leadership in Action

Finding common ground to address issues that concern all Minnesotans—from fostering respectful civic engagement to ensuring rural belonging, addressing climate change, and building safe, welcoming and sustainable communities—looms over every challenge we currently face. As catalysts for community leadership, community foundations have concrete tools they can bring to this work, including connecting local priorities to broader frameworks for impact.

Drawing on innovative practices from Minnesota and beyond—including work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals—this interactive session will explore how to use these frameworks as toolkits for building common ground and addressing complex challenges. You’ll hear real examples, engage in peer discussion, and leave with actionable ideas you can adapt to your own context.

Thank You To Our Sponsors

CMCF's ATHENA Award Luncheon
2026-05-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Cafe Renaissance, 2140 Frontage Road N, Waite Park, 56387, United States
Please join us for a luncheon to celebrate this year’s Women’s Fund ATHENA Award Recipient, Lori Kloos. The ATHENA Award is a lifetime achievement award recognizing exceptional women leaders who inspire others to achieve excellence in their professional and personal lives.
Please RSVP by May 4 with your lunch of choice. Meal choices are listed on RSVP form. All meals will be provided by the Women’s Fund.
*This event is by invitation only.*
The ATHENA Award is sponsored by Granite Partners.

Virginia Community Foundation Celebration of Philanthropy Social
2026-05-14 16:30 - 18:30 | Elks Lodge, 220 N 5th Ave W, Virginia, MN, 55792, United States
On Thursday, May 14, we invite you to join us for our inaugural Celebration of Philanthropy Social at the Elks Lodge. This special evening will bring together friends, partners, and supporters to celebrate generosity in action and look ahead to the future we’re building together.
We are also honored to recognize Barbara Baldrica with our Light of the Community Award, celebrating someone whose dedication truly reflects the spirit of our community.
Whether you have supported the Foundation for years or are simply curious about how local giving makes a difference, we hope you’ll join us.

About the Virginia Community FoundationThe Virginia Community Foundation works to connect people, resources, and ideas to strengthen the Virginia area today and for generations to come.

"Sip Into Summer" with Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation
2026-05-19 16:30 - 18:30 | White Bear Boatworks Commons Community Room, 4495 Lake Ave S, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110, United States
Raise a glass with us as we Sip Into Summer! Join the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation for an evening of celebration, connection, and community spirit.
Enjoy a curated wine tasting, light appetizers, and good company in the beautiful lakeside setting of the White Bear Boatworks Commons Community Room. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our mission, this is the perfect opportunity to mingle with neighbors, meet local changemakers, and toast to the impact we’ve made together over the past decade.
No RSVP necessary – just stop by and celebrate with us!

To learn more about the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation, visit www.gwblcf.org.

Willmar Area Women's Fund 2026 Campaign Kickoff
2026-06-02 17:00 - 19:00 | O’Neils, 152 Lake Ave N, Spicer, MN, 56288, United States
Join us for the launch of this year’s campaign on June 2 at O’Neils in Spicer. This gathering is a chance to connect with community members, learn more about the impact of the Willmar Area Women’s Fund and celebrate the work ahead.
Guests will enjoy appetizers and refreshments while hearing a featured presentation from Lutheran Social Services, highlighting important work happening in our region. We will also announce the 2026 grant recipients and recognize the organizations making a difference in our communities.
We hope you’ll join us for an evening of connection, learning, and community impact.
Please register by May 26.

"Sustainability in Turbulent Times for Non-Profits" with the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation
2026-06-03 11:45 - 13:15 | Clifton Larson Allen | Training Room, 14275 Golf Course Dr. N, Baxter, MN, 56425, United States
Building resilience, diversifying revenue, and strengthening your nonprofit for the future Nonprofits today are navigating rapid change—economic uncertainty, shifts in donor behavior, rising community needs, and increasing competition for limited funding. But turbulence also brings opportunity. This interactive Lunch & Learn will equip nonprofit leaders, board members, and development professionals with practical, realistic, and sustainable strategies to weather volatility and build long-term strength. Together, we’ll explore four key pillars of sustainability and leave you with actionable ideas you can implement immediately.
1. Reality Check: Funding Trends That Matter
2. Fundraising That Works: Donors, Relationships & Real Engagement
3. Social Enterprise: Revenue That Works for You
4. Collaboration & Capacity: Growing Together

Who Should Attend? Nonprofit staff, board members, executive directors, fundraisers, volunteers, and community partners interested in strengthening their organizations for long-term success.

Don’t miss this chance to stay informed and connected—RSVP today!

Lunch will be provided for this workshop.

Estate Planning Workshop | Virginia Knudson, Attorney with BSKK Law Office in partnership with the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation
2026-06-08 17:00 - 18:30 | Nonprofit Center of Old National Bank/Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation Office, 321 S. 7th St., Brainerd, MN, 56401, United States
Date: Monday, June 8Time: 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.Location: Old National Bank Nonprofit Center – Campbell Conference Room, 321 S. 7th Street, Brainerd
Planning for the future doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Join the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation for a free estate planning workshop designed to help you better understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
This session will provide clear, practical guidance in a straightforward, easy-to-follow format. Whether you are just getting started or revisiting an existing plan, you’ll gain helpful insights to make informed decisions about your assets, your family, and the causes you care about.
Presenters:

Virginia Knudson, Attorney, BSKK Law Firm
Terri Foster, Executive Director, Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation

Topics will include:

Estate planning basics explained in a down-to-earth way
Key differences between wills and trusts
Naming beneficiaries and when to update them
When a trust may (or may not) be necessary
Essential healthcare documents
Charitable giving and legacy planning options
Tax-smart giving strategies
Live Q&A with presenters

This workshop is free to attend, but registration is required.
Can’t make this time?A second free workshop will be offered Tuesday, June 16 in Nisswa, providing the same helpful information in a morning session. Click here to learn more!

Women's Fund Presents: Dancing With Our Stars Live
2026-06-08 17:00 - 20:30 | College of St. Benedict, 37 South College Ave S, St Joseph, MN, 56374, United States
The Women’s Fund of Central Minnesota Community Foundation would like to cordially invite you to attend the fundraising event of the year! This year’s event will feature a dance competition between five local celebrities who have been paired with a professional partner to face off for the chance to win up to $15,000 for the non-profit program/organization of their choice that supports women and girls! This is a do-not-miss event!
Schedule
Social Hour: 5:00 – 6:45pmGuests Seated for Performance: 6:45 – 7:00pmShow Begins: 7:00pm
This Year’s Dancers

Community Star Jennifer Lamb Randolph, a local professional singer will dance with Tuan (David) Le to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota.
Community Star Katie White Schad with the Sauk Rapids-Rice school district will dance with Dan Triplett to benefit Paramount Center for the Arts.
Community Star Mattea Voss with St. Cloud State University will dance with Jeff Ringer to benefit SCSU Women’s Basketball Youth Partnership Programs.
Community Star Jon Noyes with Great River Children’s Museum will dance with Janell Missler to benefit the Great River Children’s Museum.
Community Star Dr. Paul Wirth with the Wirth Center will dance with Kathy Kampa to benefit the Wirth Center.

Here’s How The Contest Works
The winner is going to be based upon their score from the judges as well as how many dollars they raise for their charity. 40% on judges score and 60% on dollars raised.
1st Place – $15,0002nd Place – $10,0003rd Place – $5,0004th-5th Place – $3,000
Fundraising has started and will continue up until the event. Click on your favorite dancing duo or charity from the list above and make your gift online! There will be opportunities to donate to the dancer/charity of your choice the night of the event. All dollars will be counted and the winner will be announced at the end of the evening.
A total of 10% of the donations raised during Women’s Fund Presents: Dancing With Our Stars, Live! will be used to support Women’s Fund programing including future events. Thank you for your support of women and girls in Central Minnesota.

Women’s Fund Presents 2026 Event Sponsors
Thank you to all of our sponsors who are supporting the Women’s Fund and their mission to improve the lives of women and girls in our community!

$10,000 Sponsor Level
AjD Technical Design & Production LLC*
Dorothy C Becker Fund
Townsquare Media*
$5000 Sponsor Level
Rick and Helga Bauerly
Bernick’s
Granite Partners
Preferred Credit, Inc. (PCI)
Ann and Dr. James Romanowsky
Stop Go Video Production*
Yuppy Photo*
$2500 Sponsor Level
APH Inc.
Franklin Outdoor Advertising*
Shelly Bauerly Kopel and Scott Kopel
Joanne and Chris Kudrna
Lathrop GPM
Microbiologics, Inc.
Ms. Melinda’s Dance Studio
Joyce and Thomas Schlough
UBS – Rivier Advisors
$1000 Sponsor Level
AIS Planning
Ann Daniels Healing Salon
Anonymous
Arbor Hair + Salon*
BankVista
Jan Bensen
Mark and Kathleen Bernick
DJ Bitzan Jewelers: Dick, Mimi and Erin Bitzan
CentraCare
College of Saint Benedict
Design Electric, Inc.
DeZURIK
Edward Jones —Michelle Redding
Elevate Dance Center, LLC*
GeoComm
Janet and Tom Grones
Hon Charles Flinn and Hon. Elizabeth Hayden
Steve and Brenda Joul
Janelle and John Kendall
LFA
Lincoln Wedding & Event Rentals*
Maryanne & John Mahowald
Proviant Group Wealth Advisors
Sentry Bank
St Cloud Area Family YMCA*
St. Augusta American Legion Auxiliary 621
St. Cloud Technical & Community College
Strategic Joy Co.*
Studio B*
The Studio Downtown St. Cloud*
Thrivent – St. Cloud
Joyce and Tony Tillemans
Traut Companies
UBS Financial Services – Karl Nikodym Wealth Management Group
Tim and Janet Wensman
Bob and Penny White
Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Homes
Diane Wojtanowicz
$500 Sponsor Level
Coborn’s Inc
United Way of Central MN*
Rose and Mike Windschitl
$350 Sponsor Level
Green Thumb etc*

Are you interested in becoming a sponsor?Click below to download the sponsor form and mail in your information.
SPONSOR FORM

Estate Planning Workshop | Matthews Law Office, PLLC in partnership with the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation
2026-06-16 10:00 - 11:30 | Matthews Law Office, PLLC, 24052 Smiley Road 56468, Nissway, MN, 56468, United States
Date: Tuesday, June 16Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.Location: Matthews Law Office Legacy Learning Center (lower level), 24052 Smiley Road, Nisswa
Take a thoughtful step toward planning your future by attending this free estate planning workshop hosted by the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation.
Designed to be approachable and informative, this session will walk through key estate planning concepts in a way that is easy to understand and relevant to real-life decisions. You’ll leave with practical knowledge to help you organize your plans and align them with your personal values.
Presenters:

Ed Matthews, Attorney & CPA, Matthews Law Office, PLLC
Terri Foster, Executive Director, Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation

Topics will include:

Estate planning fundamentals explained clearly
Understanding wills vs. trusts
Naming beneficiaries and avoiding common gaps
When a trust might be appropriate
Must-have healthcare and end-of-life documents
Charitable giving options and legacy planning
Tax-aware giving strategies
Open Q&A with experienced professionals

This workshop is free to attend, but registration is required.
Prefer an evening option?The same workshop will also be offered Monday, June 8 in Brainerd for those who prefer an evening schedule. Click here to learn more!

Paynesville Area Community Foundation Summer Social
2026-07-11 17:30 - 20:00 | Tall Trees Estate, 29847 Crest Ridge Road, Paynesville, MN, 56362, United States
The Paynesville Area Community Foundation invites you to join us for our annual summer social event at Veterans Park just off Old Lake Road on Lake Koronis. Enjoy a 12-acre community park and beach while you learn more about the community activities that we are engaged in from our board members and Executive Director.
Experience an evening of fun and community, with an auction, live music, and free food, beer, and wine for attendees to enjoy.
Event is free to attend. Please RSVP by June 30th.

Contact Amanda Raisanen, PACF Executive Director, with any questions at araisanen@communitygiving.org.

Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation Awards in Philanthropy Dinner Celebration
2026-07-16 17:30 - 20:30 | Grand View Lodge, 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN, 56468, United States
Join us and share in an evening filled with inspiring stories of philanthropy. At the Awards in Philanthropy Dinner, we recognize charitable giving and celebrate the amazing individuals and organizations that make the Lakes Area a better place to live.
Proceeds from this event will be used to support annual grants to local non-profits.
Location:
Gull Lake Center – Grand View Lodge
23521 Nokomis Ave
Nisswa, MN 56468
Event Schedule:
5:30 P.M. – Reception
6:30 P.M. – Welcome and Dinner
7:15 P.M. – Program and Awards Presentation
Menu for the evening –
Salad: Mixed Greens with Marinated Cucumbers and Tomatoes, Pickled Vegetables, Seasoned Goat Cheese, Herb Vinaigrette
Entrée Options: Braised Beef Short Ribs, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Comfit Tomato, Vegetable Succotash, Herb Gremolata, Pan Jus OR Vegetarian Entrée: Farro and Mushroom Cake, Roasted Mushrooms, Confit Tomatoes, Herb Oil, “Veggie Demi-Glace”. Dairy Free/Gluten Free will also be available.
Dessert: Chocolate Smore Cake, Marshmallow Fluff, White and dark Chocolate, Smoked Bacon
2026 Award Recipients
Ruthie Gmeinder – Award in Philanthropy Honoree
Glen Gustafson – Legacy Memorial Honoree

Sponsorship opportunities still available. To view the sponsorship form for more information, click here.

Central Minnesota Community Foundation Celebration of Philanthropy
2026-09-10 17:00 - 20:00 | The Park Event Center, 500 Division Street, Waite Park, MN, 56387, United States
More details coming soon!

Community Foundation for Carver County Celebration of Philanthropy Dinner
2026-09-16 17:00 - 20:00 | Chaska Event Center, 3210 Chaska Blvd., Chaska, MN, 55318, United States
The Community Foundation for Carver County would like to invite you to join us to celebrate our community and honor individuals and organizations that have generously contributed to making it a great place to live, work and play.
Awards in Philanthropy Recipients –
Dave Pokorney of Chaska
LaVonne and Richard Kroells of Norwood Young America
