Waite Park, MN — CommunityGiving is bringing some of the most inspiring and influential voices in philanthropy and community leadership to central Minnesota for EmpowerCF 2025: An Annual Conference for Empowering Community Foundations, set to take place April 23–24 at the Park Event Center in Waite Park. With the theme “The Power of Giving,” this year’s event is designed to spark bold conversations, foster deep connections, and ignite new possibilities for how giving can shape the future of our communities. To learn more about the conference, visit www.communitygiving.org/empowercf.
At the heart of the conference are three powerful keynote sessions featuring some of Minnesota’s top thought leaders:Steve Grove, CEO & Publisher of the Minnesota Star Tribune
Plenary: “The Heart and Voice of the North”
A trailblazer in media and civic innovation, Grove will share how the Star Tribune is reimagining the role of local journalism to build a stronger, more informed Minnesota. A former Google executive and Minnesota economic development commissioner, Grove brings a unique perspective on the intersection of leadership, technology, and community impact.Eric J. Jolly, Ph.D., President & CEO of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Plenary: “Harnessing the Power in Community: New Strategies in Grantmaking”
A nationally recognized leader in philanthropy, Jolly will highlight how foundations can transition from traditional models to community-led, inclusive approaches that spark real change.Philanthropy Power Panel: Challenges and Opportunities in Giving Today
This dynamic discussion will feature:
- Tuleah Palmer, President, Blandin Foundation
- Jennifer Ford Reedy, President, Bush Foundation
- Heather Kukla, President, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies
- Eric Jolly, President & CEO, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Together, these respected leaders will address the evolving landscape of philanthropy, the importance of place-based giving, and how community foundations can stay resilient and responsive in a rapidly changing world.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear directly from the leaders shaping the future of giving in Minnesota and beyond. Attendees will also benefit from:
- 15+ breakout sessions on topics from AI and impact investing to rural vitality and planned giving.
- Networking opportunities with peers, thought leaders, and changemakers from across the region.
- Inspiration to fuel new strategies, deepen community connections, and strengthen local impact.
Space is limited — register today and be part of a transformational experience for board and staff members alike.
CommunityGiving is a collaboration of community foundations united under a single framework to create efficiencies that maximize the impact of our donors. The core foundations working with CommunityGiving include the Alexandria Area Community Foundation, the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation, the Community Foundation for Carver County, the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, the Paynesville Area Community Foundation and the Willmar Area Community Foundation, all based in Minnesota and the Derby Community Foundation, based in Kansas. Collectively, CommunityGiving administers over 1,100 funds totaling over $225 million in assets. Learn more at CommunityGiving.org.