Neighbors helping neighbors
We know Northwest Minnesota offers boundless opportunities. That’s why we measure our impact by the results we create for the people, businesses, and communities we serve.
Featured achievements
Leadership training for 4,000 youth and adults
More than $62.5 million in grants
4,168 jobs created or retained
Serving the needs in 45 communities
Accomplishments
In addition to the important work we continue to pursue, we have achieved the following:
- Made 927 loans for a total of $33.7 million,
- Created or retained more than 4,168 jobs in our region
- Leveraged more than $140 million in additional lending
- Made over 11,800 grants totaling more than $62.5 million
- Our leadership programs have trained almost 4,000 youth and adults
- Our nonprofit management and diversity training programs have addressed the needs of 358 organizations and 45 communities
- We have more than $97 million in total assets and 440 funds in our family of funds
Impact Report
Click HERE to read our most recent Impact Report.
Financials: Form 990
Click HERE to read our most recent IRS Form 990.
News & Ideas
See how our initiatives, partnerships, and collaborations are making an impact.
Investing in youth through housing support
Deb Zak’s experience working alongside youth has shaped her commitment to supporting young adults today – particularly through access to safe, stable housing.
Bridging the gap: Conifer community’s on-demand transit pilot
The Headwaters Regional Development Commission has launched a transit project that’s providing a pathway to stability, independence, and opportunity.
Lifting up youth voices: A community coming together through YESS
In 2024, YESS received a $3,000 grant from the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, using the funds to launch an ambitious initiative: the Youth Community Health Fair Project, a one-day event held in October at Riverside Methodist Church in Park Rapids. The goal was to bridge the gap between youth and the community resources available to them.
