YOURCOMMUNITY. YOUR FOUNDATION....Caring Bridge website, letting Ashley know how much she was missed. Thanks to the foresight of her parents, Ashley’s mission lives on through her

ROCHESTER AREA FOUNDATION I 2015 I REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

YOUR COMMUNITY.YOUR FOUNDATION.

RAF ANNUAL REPORT 3 25 16_Layout 1 3/25/16 1:16 PM Page 1

Table of ContentsFrom the Board Chair and President ...........................................................................................................................12015 Rochester Area Foundation Board of Trustees......................................................................................................2Rochester Area Foundation Staff.................................................................................................................................2Past Trustees, Committees and Boards .........................................................................................................................3Grants Awarded by Service Area 2015......................................................................................................................4Grants Awarded 2015............................................................................................................................................102015 Donors .........................................................................................................................................................162015 Honor and Memory Gifts ...............................................................................................................................182015 New Funds ...................................................................................................................................................18Heritage Society Members.......................................................................................................................................182015 at a Glance ..................................................................................................................................................18WeGive365 ..........................................................................................................................................................19Save the Date ........................................................................................................................................................20Consolidated Statement of Financial Position .............................................................................................................21

Girl Scouts ConnectZ:Investing in the Future

MACV Helps Veterans FindStability & Confidence

Renovation ProvidesAffordability, Stability,Revitalization

A Permanent Home Dedicatedto Building Better Communitesfor ALL

First Homes Makes theAmerican Dream a Reality

www.RochesterArea.orgLike Us on FacebookFollow Us @RochesterArea

Video Campaign Helps Women’sShelter Raise Awareness

New Location Offers AdditionalCommunity Meeting &Incubator Space

A Legacy for Ashley

5 6 8 9

12 1413 15


1

ROCHESTER AREA FOUNDAT ION 2015 R EPORT TO THE COMMUN I TY

From the Board Chair and President

Dear Friends,

The theme of this year’s Annual Report is “Your Community, Your Foundation.” A glance through these pages will show youwhy those of us who live in the greater Rochester area have good reason to love our communities. The Rochester AreaFoundation exists because of citizens like you who want to help one another and enhance the quality of life for all of us. Yourcaring generosity expressed through many generations of support for RAF will continue to make a significant difference in ourcommunities long into the future.

As we reflect on what we have accomplished together in 2015, this annual report will remind us of what you are so excellentat doing in partnership with RAF. In 2015 we are pleased that:

• More than $ 2.7 million has been placed with the Foundation.

• The Foundation received almost 800 contributions.

• Your generosity of 559 grants this year enabled us together to fund needs for area nonprofit organizations in• key service areas:

– 220 grants to health and human service nonprofits,– 47 grants to arts and culture organizations,– 79 grants for community development and other local nonprofits serving our communities,– 39 to area church communities,– 174 grants to nonprofits serving education, including scholarships to high school seniors, technical and – undergraduate students, and– 24 new funds were created.

• A first ever, permanent home for RAF means it will be better equipped: – To move forward and succeed with our mission of building and improving the quality of life in the greater Rochester – area through philanthropic leadership and community partnerships; – To be a tool to address the current and growing needs of our communities, including access for all our regional – stakeholders, increased visibility for RAF services, provision of affordable community meeting and incubator space, and – enhancing the resources available for new and emerging nonprofits; and– Perhaps most importantly, the new space will enhance RAF’s ability to act and serve as a community anchor.

The fundamental value of community foundations is the power of collective impact, the “we.” Together we welcome alldonors - large and small alike - and understand that generosity is an important value that connects us all. We are honored tosteward the resources you entrust to RAF and delighted to share the stories of impact that follow in this report. They are storiesabout the good things happening in our communities – and they are your stories.

On behalf of the Rochester Area Foundation, we would like to express our gratitude and respect for our entire Board ofDirectors, Committee members and dedicated staff. They all give of their time and expertise, and continue to supportcharitable giving for the greater Rochester area communities. Both Hugh and I are honored and privileged to serve theRochester Area Foundation.

Sincerely,

Hugh Smith, Board Chair JoAnn Stormer, President

Vision: Better communities for all.


2015 Rochester Area Foundation Board of Trustees


CHAIRHugh SmithMayo Clinic,retired

Mary EhmkeKMTelecom

Jose RivasCRW Architecture& Design Group

Denise KellyUS Bank

Greg LaytonUS Bank

Don SupallaRCTC,retired

TREASURERTom WenteSmith, Schafer &Associates

Mark UtzWendland Utz, Ltd.

Walt LingIBM,retired

Paul GormanMayo ClinicTreasury Services

VICE-CHAIRWendy ShannonWinona StateUniversity

Brad SchmidtMayo Clinic,retired

Angie BowmanBowman Tool andMachining, Inc.

SECRETARYBarbara JordanMayo MedicalSchool

John BenikeAlvin E. Benike, Inc.

JoAnn StormerPresident

AnnekaFallensteinAdministrativeAssistant

Steve BorchardtDevelopmentOfficer

Ann Fahy-GustDonor Services &Grants Manager

Max EvansAdministrative &CommunicationsAssistant

Vivien WilliamsIndependentJournalist/Filmmaker

Jane CampionEmeritus BoardMember

Mission: Build and improve the quality of life in the greater Rochester area throughphilanthropic leadership and community partnerships.

2

Karel WeigelMayo Clinic,retired

Cheryl KeyFirst HomesProgram Officer

Paul HarkessDevelopmentOfficer

Misha HansonFinance Director

Shirley LeeFirst HomesProgram Officer

Rochester Area Foundation Staff


Earl R. BakerBetty A. BeckAbdul BengaliDan BerndtRobert A. BezoierArt BirdseyeWilliam C. BoyneRobert S. BrownNancy BrubakerMichael BueDorothy CallahanJane CampionRick ColvinLance DavenportAllan DeBoerNancy DomailleJoe DuffyVera M. ElginCharles ElliottAnn N. FergusonJoy FogartyJean H. Freeman

Claude GlatzmaierDavid GriffinWalter T. HaesleyPaul HarkessHarry J. HarwickJ.W. HarwickJohn H. HerrellMarianne HockemaLes HorntvedtIsabel HuizengaTheodore H. JohnasenClifford M. JohnsonJennings O. JohnsonLeigh J. JohnsonCarol KamperMary Jo KellyEleanore KirklinMichael KlampeEdward LaPointeJean LockeJon LosnessTheodore G. Martens

Paul J. McCueAnna McGeeKenneth McGhieMike McNeilTheodore G. Martens, M.D.Michael McNeilR.D. Mussey, M.D.Sue M. NorrisJames M. O’ConnerPaul OlanderCharles W. PappasHarold E. PayneDan PenzCarolyn PiephoJoe PowersRaymond Pruitt, M.D.Bruce QualeyRay L. RobertsOscar C. RonkenAl SchaferAlfred SchumannFred W. Schuster

Ron SeegerRobert SmoldtHerbert M. Stellner, Jr.David StenhaugHoward T. StewartMarilyn StewartDon SudorJames L.TalenSheryl TaslerCurtis L. TaylorHarold ThompsonMargaret S.ThompsonAl TuntlandJohn WadeCharles R.Von WaldCraig WendlandHoward E.WestNedra M.WicksBarbara B.WithersJohn WithersRalph Wright, Ph.D.Kenneth Zubay

PAST TRUSTEES

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEOF THE BOARDHugh Smith, ChairWendy Shannon, Vice ChairBarbara Jordan, SecretaryTom Wente, TreasurerJohn Benike, Past Chair

FINANCEJohn Benike, Co-ChairPaul Gorman, Co-ChairEric AllecksonMandie AndersonDan BerndtCharles ElliottTodd HeatherLeigh JohnsonGreg LaytonAngie RustadJim SloanHugh SmithCraig WendlandTom Wente

PERSONNEL COMMITTEEWendy Shannon, ChairBarbara JordanBecky Pautz

DISTRIBUTIONJean Locke, ChairJane CampionCarol KamperKay KarsellDavid StenhaugDon SupallaSharon Van De NorthKarel Weigel

DEVELOPMENT &MARKETING COMMITTEEVivien Williams, ChairSusan AhlquistJane CampionRon HansonMichon RogersHugh SmithDavid StenhaugMark Utz

IMPACT FINANCEJoe Powers, ChairMary Jo Majerus, Vice ChairJose Rivas, SecretarySusan Strandberg, TreasurerLaura HelleGreg LaytonJim MackGary SmithTom Wente

FIRST HOMES BOARDOF DIRECTORSJose Rivas, ChairNatalie Jones, Vice ChairUmbelina Cremer, TreasurerJamie Le Dent, SecretaryKarli McElroyJulie Nagorski Lou OhlyKarel WeigelPaul Wilson

COMMITTEES AND BOARDS


Integrity:We work to deserve the trust of those we serve by operating ethically withhonesty, openness and respect in all aspects of our work.

3


Other$25,35013 grants

Church$261,30139 grants

Arts$112,27747 grants

CommunityDevelopment$379,62966 grants

Health/HumanServices$537,090220 grants

Grants Awarded byRochester Area Foundation

Totaling $1,853,336in 2015:

4


Education/Scholarships$537,689174 grants

Total Number ofGrants Awarded:

559


5


A Legacy for Ashley

For the Hanson family, the value of all people is summed up inthat famous Winnie-The-Pooh quote, “Promise me you’ll alwaysremember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger thanyou seem, and smarter than you think.” Ron and Jody Hansonknow firsthand that those who have experienced the death of achild, a sister or brother, or even a grandchild will never be thesame. But knowing that you can invest in the community, invest inthe recollection of someone’s life, even if only a small part—andhelp keep your loved one’s memory alive—is a wonderful thing.

Seven years ago, the Hansons lost their daughter, Ashley, tocancer. Ashley was a dedicated 23-year-old student at AugsburgCollege who dreamed of teaching at the elementary level butwas unable to graduate and fulfill her dream. Her parents,accepting a posthumous degree on her behalf from Augsburg,determined that her dream could live on by helping others whoare less fortunate but who share Ashley’s desire to help childrenthrough teaching.

Ashley always had a special love for children, say her parents.When she was young, she was a popular babysitter, becauseshe had a fun, active imagination and related well to children.According to her father, Ashley was vibrant, caring, andconfident. “She always looked out for and protected her youngersister,” he says. “When new kids started in school, she wouldbefriend them and make them feel welcome.”

In high school, Ashley helped Mrs. Oman, her formerkindergarten teacher, in the classroom once a week as part ofa career assignment. Mrs. Oman was so impressed by herformer student’s dedication and skills that she encouragedAshley to pursue a career as a teacher. Ashley enrolled atRochester’s Augsburg College and later transferred to the TwinCities to finish her education. While in the Cities, she workedat a Kindercare, where she felt at home teaching and caringfor the kids. She was so successful that the parents of thosechildren followed her on her difficult health journey through aCaring Bridge website, letting Ashley know how much shewas missed. Thanks to the foresight of her parents, Ashley’smission lives on through her parents’ generosity and thesupport of the Rochester Area Foundation.

In 2015 Ron heard a presentation about how the Foundationcan provide an effective vehicle for memorials and legacies.What piqued his interest was the powerful difference between aonetime gift and the establishment of an ongoing fund that wouldboth provide grants now and forever in Ashley’s memory: “It’simportant to know that our money is invested wisely, that thefunds will grow, and that we can use the interest to helpothers,” says Hanson. “Knowing how long the Foundation hasbeen around, and the care they give in managing funds,gives us peace of mind. Even when we are no longeraround, we know the Foundation will be there, and that ourdaughter’s legacy will continue.”

The Ashley Marie Hanson Memorial Fund helps those interestedin and working toward a career in early childhood education—those who sometimes do not have the means for books andtuition. In addition, since a lack of resources can make it difficultto properly equip classrooms, funds will help needy teachers andstudents purchase classroom supplies out of their own pockets.The Hansons believe a small gesture can go a long way and thatpeople who are given a chance to succeed and improve theirquality of life do.If you are interested in community philanthropy or creating an endowed donorfund to commemorate the accomplishments of an individual who was an integralpart of our community, contact the Rochester Area Foundation at 507-282-0203to start the conversation.



A Permanent Home Dedicated toBuilding Better Communities for ALL

6

For more than 70 years, the Rochester Area Foundation hasbeen a part of the Rochester area through its connection withindividual philanthropists, businesses, and nonprofitorganizations working to build a better community foreveryone. As time passed, the Foundation’s location variedand it was unable to establish a permanent building thatwould be visible to donors, nonprofit partners, and the entirecommunity. This past year, however, the Rochester AreaFoundation settled into a permanent home—a buildingspecifically designed for the Foundation and designed to meetthe community’s needs.

A Strategic Choice Due to strong regional growth, the Board of Trustees andleadership team spent more than a year reviewing the needfor a permanent office and community space. They began byresearching more than 20 potential locations, including rentalproperties and existing office buildings. Key factors were:

• Capacity to provide community and incubator/accelerator • space for nonprofits • Affordability • Prominent visibility • Adequate office space • Proximity to downtown • Parking and ease of access for donors and community • stakeholders

A Space Committee, consisting of Board of Trustees membersand key community members with knowledge of land andbuilding costs, went through a long, detailed process to selectthe new location, 12 Elton Hills Drive NW.

As part of the decision-making process, it was estimated that,during the next 25 years, the Foundation would have spentalmost $4.7 million in rent for a comparable space, and whilethe estimated cost of the building was $2.5 million, thesavings from building its own space allows the Foundation tobuild equity and return $2 million back to the community. Asa fully licensed 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, the Foundation is notrequired to pay property taxes, making property ownership afiscally responsible option. “Over the long haul, this is a goodinvestment for the Foundation and a good investment in thegreater Rochester region,” says JoAnn Stormer, president ofthe Rochester Area Foundation.

Meeting Current and Growing NeedsThe new Rochester Area Foundation location and buildingaddresses the Foundation’s current and future needs. It offersease of access for regional stakeholders, increases visibility,provides affordable and accessible community meetingrooms, and has an incubator space for emerging andgrowing nonprofits. “The greater Rochester area is our home,and the Rochester Area Foundation will be here forever,leaving a legacy and making a positive impact,” says

6



Stormer. “Moving to a permanent location made sense as westrategically position the Foundation to increase its role increating an ongoing positive impact on the communities andnonprofits we serve.”

Helping the Community ThriveMore than adequate to meet the Foundation’s current andgrowing capacity needs in the next 20-plus years, the newlocation reflects the Foundation’s strong community presence,embodies community spirit and pride, and accommodatescurrent and future growth needs. The new Rochester AreaFoundation is a forward-thinking choice for a communityfoundation that is working to Build Better Communities for ALL.

During its history, the Foundation has made an impact inRochester area communities by creating positive change forcommunity betterment, education, health, housing, humanservice, environment, art and culture, and historicpreservation. “These community investments are made

possible through the generosity of more than 300 fundholdersand other donors through the Foundation to our communities,”says Stormer. “Our Board of Trustees and staff take thestewardship of these assets very seriously. The long-termprotection and most effective use of these assets is our numberone priority. The new building offers ease of access for allregional stakeholders, increases visibility, provides large andsmall community meeting rooms, and has an incubator spacefor emerging and growing nonprofits.“ Wendy Shannon,Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees and Co-Chair of the RAFBuilding Campaign Committee expressed her appreciationfor the support of the community, donors, local businessesand staff during the planning and construction process. Shesays, “The progress that was made during 2015 in furtheringthe mission of the Rochester Area Foundation was significantand meaningful. We could not have accomplished the movewithout the immense support we received from the entirecommunity.”

7

The new Executive BoardRoom is available for use bycommunity groups andfeatures seating for 20, WIFI,teleconferencing capabilityand state-of-the-art audiovisualservice.

The new Reception Areaallows a comfortable

space to welcome andseat visitors.



New Location Offers AdditionalCommunity Meeting & Incubator Space

The Rochester Area Foundation’s new location providesmore than 7,000 usable square feet that is not only for theFoundation’s operations but also for community meetingspace. Two main-floor conference rooms and a largerupstairs “community room” are designated for and madeavailable to nonprofit organizations or business entitieslooking for professional meeting space in an easilyaccessible location.

The small conference, board, and community rooms areequipped with modern A/V equipment and audio and videoconferencing technology. Few local resources provide abetter meeting space, especially when price is considered.The Foundation provides nonprofit groups a 50% discountfor the use of meeting space and also provides fund holderswith an additional 25% discount. “The purpose of acommunity foundation, in part, is to help grow the nonprofitcommunity,” says JoAnn Stormer, president of the RochesterArea Foundation. “Providing meeting spaces to these groupsallows them to continue carrying out their mission andimproving the quality of life for everyone in the greaterRochester area.”

Providing incubator space in which nonprofit organizationsdevelop and foster innovative ideas and programs is a newconcept trending nationally among community foundations.Although Rochester Area Economic Development Inc.(RAEDI) provides this service for entrepreneurs and startupcompanies, local nonprofit organizations have not had thesame opportunity—until now.

When the Foundation staff and board discussed locations forthe new Rochester Area Foundation building, they grewexcited about the idea of offering increased incubator

space, which is key to fulfilling the Foundation’s mission. TheFoundation currently serves as the fiscal sponsor for nearlytwo-dozen groups seeking their 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.While these groups are building their documentation,boards, and volunteer networks, the Foundation overseestheir finances so individuals can donate to these startupgroups and receive a maximum tax benefit.

Incubator space provides emerging nonprofit organizationswith a home office and support services at a fraction of thecost of commercial rental alternatives. Knowing this is acritical time for emerging nonprofits, the Foundation focusedon building a location that could house multiple startupgroups so they could gather the resources necessary to growtheir organizations. The new incubator space featuresflexible configuration for 12 participating groups.

Rochester Beacon Academy is a great example of howincubator time can benefit an emerging nonprofit. TheAcademy did not immediately receive its charter and had toreapply. In the meantime, there was no physical address forthe group and the founders needed meeting space forplanning purposes, interview space for hiring staff, aphysical address at which families could register students,and office services to help pull everything together. TheRochester Area Foundation provided that space, from whichthe Rochester Beacon Academy “graduated” in 2015,slightly more than a year after they approached theFoundation for assistance. They are now a successful, stand-alone nonprofit that continues to grow and serve theRochester community.

Emerging nonprofits are welcome to contact the Rochester Area Foundationfor more information on space and services available at 507-282-0203.

8


Collaboration:We believe in the transformative power of partnerships, combiningresources for community benefit.


MACV Helps Veterans FindStability & Confidence

During the past 15 years, the conversation about how our nationcares for its military veterans has changed. As Korea andVietnam veterans age and service men and women from morerecent deployments in the Middle East return home, traditionalapproaches to assisting these patriots have not met the increasedneeds. Locally, the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans(MACV) is on the frontlines of veteran advocacy and support.

Founded in 1990 through financial support from a local Veteransof Foreign Wars post, the MACV has focused on three areas ofsupport: employment, legal assistance, and housing. Its mission,throughout Minnesota, is to provide assistance to positivelymotivated veterans and their families who are homeless orexperiencing other life crises. MACV’s support services includeconnecting veterans to services that help them manage theirfinances, build proper relationships, receive mental and physicalhealth referrals, locate earned but unclaimed veteran benefits,and more. The majority of the case managers working forMACV are veterans themselves. This helps them, and all MACVstaff, put situations in perspective and empathize with theveterans they serve. The results have been remarkable.

“A lot of guys get back, and they have seen some horriblethings. It makes them think they aren’t worth anything. It tears attheir self-esteem, and you have to build that back up,” saysDoran Hocker, a Vietnam veteran and case manager for MACV.Case managers build rapport with veterans and connect them toavailable services. Perhaps more importantly, they sit and listento clients and help them talk through issues and find solutions.About one-third of veterans the MACV sees have served post9/11 and about 25% have families that are also directlyaffected by the issue the veteran is experiencing. Seventy percentof MACV’s clients have either mental and/or physical disabilitiesthat present additional challenges. Structured assistanceprograms through the MACV give the veteran support to onceagain become a productive member of their community andrebuild their confidence.

Preventing homelessness is a primary focus since homelessness isa leading cause of individual and family suffering as well asmajor health and social costs for local communities. Nonprofitslike MACV react quickly to veterans’ emergencies, such as threatof eviction or loss of heat in winter. Traditional veterans’resources, like government assistance programs, require time-consuming bureaucracy. Grants and donations to the MACVallow veterans to get critical, life-altering assistance as fast as

possible, since MACV focuses on leveraging funding, non-duplication of resources, filling gaps in services, and establishingrelationships with local partners and collaborators.

In working with the Rochester Area Foundation, MACV’sMankato regional office has provided direct assistance toOlmsted County’s homeless veterans and those experiencing acrisis. Assistance is generally provided on a one-time basis inwhich the payment or service provided to the veteran resolvesthe crisis they are experiencing. “Olmsted County is a regionalhub for housing, health care, education, and employment, andsupports one of the largest veteran populations in the state,” saysMichael McLaughlin, Mankato regional program and outreachmanager. “MACV identified Rochester’s significance to theregion, and in turn, we focused our efforts in reaching the manyveterans in need in the area. Since 2013, our targeted effortshave increased the number of veterans we have been able toserve in Rochester and the surrounding communities—from 46 in2014 to 79 in 2015. By working to foster our current communityrelationships and seek out new partnerships, that number isexpected to rise. ”

With the help of the Rochester Area Foundation and its donors,MACV was provided $4,000 in grant funding in 2014 and$6,000 in 2015. The funding has helped MACV focus resourceson its work in Olmsted County. “MACV is the only statewideorganization in Minnesota that is focused solely on the homelessand in-crisis veteran population,” says Kathleen Vitalis, itspresident/CEO. “It is critical that we work with local communitypartners in order to meet the needs of those we are looking toserve.”

9


Ability Building CenterACT on Alzheimer’sAldo Leopold FoundationAlzheimer’s Association MN ND ChapterAmerican Cancer SocietyAmerican Diabetes AssociationAmerican Foundation for Suicide PreventionAmerican Guild OrganistsAmerican Jewish Joint Distribution CommitteeAmerican Jewish World ServiceAmerican Red Cross MankatoAmerican Red Cross NationalAmerican Red Cross RochesterAmeriCaresAmerican Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Outreach & Education FundApple Tree DentalARC MinnesotaArizona State UniversityAssisi Community CenterAssociation of Fundraising ProfessionalsAugustinian AcademyBaltimore School for the Performing ArtsBeacon AcademyBear Creek Services FoundationBella Voce Young Women’s ChoirBolder OptionsBolton Refuge HouseBoy Scouts of America Gamehaven CouncilBoys & Girls Club BemidjiBoys & Girls Club RochesterBrains Together for a CureByron School District #531Calvary Cemetery AssociationCalvary Episcopal ChurchCamp VictoryCampus Crusade for ChristCatholic Charities of the Diocese of WinonaCatholic Charities St. Cloud Children’s Home

Catholic Foundation of Southern MinnesotaCenter City HousingCenter for Academic Excellence FoundationCentral Minnesota Task Force onBattered WomenChannel One Regional Food BankCharity NavigatorChatfield Public School FoundationChild Care Resource and ReferralChildren’s Cancer Research FundChildren’s Dental Health ServicesChildren’s Museum RochesterChildren’s Wish Foundation InternationalChoral Arts EnsembleChosen Valley Community FoundationChrist Community ChurchChrist United Methodist ChurchChristmas AnonymousChurch of the SaviorCity of ElginCity of Lakes Community Land TrustCivic League Day NurseryColdwater Foundation for Leadership& Community DevelopmentCollege of St. BenedictCommonweal Theatre CompanyCommunity Dental CareCommunity Food ResponseCommunity Presbyterian ChurchCompassion InternationalCompassionate Ocean Dharma CenterCongregation Shir TikvahCovenant HouseCronin HomesDakota WoodlandsDamiano CenterDodge Center Aquatic CenterDodge Center FoundationDodge Center United Methodist Church

Dodge County Extension OfficeDodge County Food ShelfDodge County United WayDorothy Day Hospitality HouseDuke UniversityDuke University AthleticsEcho Food ShelfElder NetworkEvergreen CemeteryExercisabilities Fairview Care CenterFamilies and Individuals Sharing HopeFamily MeansFather Woody’s Haven of HopeFirst HomesFood for the PoorFriedell Middle School Music ProgramFriendly Hills Middle School ISD 197Friends of Mayowood Residenceand Historic SitesGeorgetown School of MedicineGift of Life Transplant HouseGillette Children’s Specialty HealthcareGloria Dei Lutheran ChurchGood Earth VillageGrace FoundationGreat DeedsGreater Rochester Area Dakota SupportersGreater Rochester Area University & CollegesGreater Rochester Rotary FoundationHabitat for Humanity RochesterHabitat for Humanity St. CloudHiawatha Homes FoundationHighlands Community Church of ScottsdaleHistory Center of Olmsted CountyHomes Within ReachHope LodgeHope SeedsHormel Institute

Better Communities for ALL.R O C H E S T E R A R E A F O U N D A T I O N

YOUR COMMUNITY. YOUR FOUNDAT ION.Rochester Area Foundation, through generous donations from its donors, gave out grants to these organizations in 2015. Manyreceived multiple donations. We thank our own donors for making this possible.

10



Hosanna Lutheran ChurchInstitute for Shipboard Education& Semester at SeaIntercultural Mutual Assistance AssociationInterfaith Hospitality NetworkIronwood Springs Christian RanchJoin the JourneyKasson Mantorville Care and ShareKasson United Methodist ChurchKasson-Mantorville Public SchoolsKnights of Columbus Christian Refugee ReliefKSMQ Public TelevisionLake Zumbro Improvement AssociationLegal Assistance of Olmsted CountyLehigh UniversityLourdes FoundationLuther SeminaryMadonna Towers FoundationMarch of DimesMayo Clinic & FoundationMayo Eugenio Litta Children’s HospitalMayo Touchdown ClubMayo Wrestling AssociationMechanical History RoundtableMemorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer CenterMidAmerica Orthopedic AssociationMinnesota Adult & Teen ChallengeMinnesota Assistance Council for VeteransMinnesota Citizens Concerned for LifeMinnesota Council on NonprofitsMinnesota Private College FundMinnesota Public RadioMiracle FieldNational Alliance on Mental Health Narramore Christian FoundationNational Community Land Trust NetworkNational Multiple Sclerosis AssociationNational Pro-Life AllianceNavigatorsNew Life Family ServicesNext Chapter MinistriesOasis Pregnancy CenterOlmsted County Public Health ServicesOlmsted County Public WorksOlmsted Medical Center FoundationOne Roof Community HousingOrthopedic Research and EducationFoundationOrthopedic Trauma SocietyPacer’s National Bullying Prevention CenterPaws and Claws Humane SocietyPhoenix Rescue MissionPine Island Boy ScoutsPine Island Girl ScoutsPlace at the TablePlanned Parenthood of MN, SD, NDPlayground for EveryBody

Pleasant Prairie CemeteryPossAbilitiesProject Get OutdoorsProject ZawadiProvidence AcademyPulmonary Hypertension AssociationQuarry Hill Nature CenterRed Wing Health CenterRedeemer Lutheran ChurchRiver Valleys Girl ScoutsRochester Area Economic DevelopmentRochester Area Family YRochester Art CenterRochester Arts & Cultural TrustRochester Catholic SchoolsRochester Central Lutheran SchoolRochester Chamber MusicRochester Civic MusicRochester Community & TechnicalCollege FoundationRochester FriendsRochester International AssociationRochester Irish FestRochester Pickleball AssociationRochester Public LibraryRochester Public SchoolsRochester Rotary RisersRochester Symphony Orchestra & ChoraleRocket Wrestling ClubRonald McDonald HouseRoser Memorial Community ChurchRotary FoundationRT Autism FoundationSalvation Army MankatoSalvation Army Northern DivisionSalvation Army RochesterSamaritan Bethany FoundationSchaeffer AcademySchool Sisters of Notre DameSeason’s HospiceSecular Franciscan OrderSharing & Caring HandsSimon Kenton CouncilSisters of St. FrancisSjorgren’s Syndrome FoundationSoldiers Field Veteran’s MemorialSouth Central Service CooperativeSouth Dakota State University FoundationSoutheast Minnesota Youth OrchestraSouthern Minnesota Initiative FoundationSpecial Olympics FloridaSpecial Olympics MinnesotaSt. Albert Educational FoundationSt. Francis of Assisi ChurchSt. John’s Catholic ChurchSt. Luke’s Episcopal ChurchSt. Olaf Heritage Association

St. Pius X Catholic ChurchSt. Stephen’s Episcopal ChurchStewartville History CenterThe Arc of SE MNThe Arthritis FoundationThe Community TableThe Congregational Church UCCThe Open DoorThe Reading CenterThe Shosholoza FoundationTown Center IncorporatedTwin Cities Public TelevisionUnion Gospel Mission DuluthUnion Gospel Mission St. PaulUnited Way of Dodge CountyUnited Way of Olmsted CountyUniversity of Minnesota FoundationUniversity of Minnesota Rochester FoundationUniversity of North Dakota FoundationUniversity of Notre DameUniversity of South DakotaValley of Rochester Scottish RiteChildren’s FoundationVFW FoundationVFW Post 1215VocalEssenceweGive365Washington UniversityWomen’s ShelterWounded Warrior ProjectY MentorsYoung Life BeltonYoung Life White BearYouth Outreach UnitedZumbro Bend RendezvousZumbro Lutheran ChurchZumbro Valley Audubon SocietyZumbro Valley Health Center

11


Rochester AreaFoundation



Girl Scouts ConnectZ:Investing in theFuture

When girls succeed, so does society: A girl’s success becomesthe success of her family and friends, her career and industry,and her community. By investing in girls through Girl ScoutsConnectZ, Rochester Area Foundation has invested in the futureof Rochester.

Research shows that involvement in high-quality, out-of-schooltime programs is the biggest indicator of future success, evenmore so than grades. Girl Scouts ConnectZ, a culturally-responsive leadership program for girls in K-12, increases thereach of the Girl Scout program within underrepresented, diverseand low-income communities by partnering with schools andyouth-serving organizations. Through the program, girls discoverknowledge and skills to prepare them for a positive future,connect with peers and caring adults, and take action to make adifference in their community. Along the way, they develop theconfidence, leadership skills and self-efficacy needed forsuccessful lives both in and out of the classroom.

Girls Scouts ConnectZ reaches more than 3,000 girls throughoutthe Twin Cities and southern Minnesota, with more than 500girls participating in Olmsted County through partnerships withschools and community organizations. ConnectZ staff memberswork with school and community educators, counselors, socialworkers, and stakeholders to identify girls most in need of theprogram—often girls who are experiencing challenges in andout of the classroom and may be at risk of not advancingacademically. The ConnectZ program is then offered to thesestudents without charge.

Locally, the ConnectZ program has made the difference for onelocal teen to change her life completely. Last year, Jamie was asenior at the Rochester Alternative Learning Center. Like manychallenged students, she was trying to get through school so shecould get a job and move out of her parents’ home—the thoughtof attending college never crossed her mind. In November,Jamie began attending Girl Scouts ConnectZ meetings and

explored possibilities for the future, visited college campuses,learned about various career fields, and discovered how tomake healthy decisions. By February, Jamie joined other girlson a college tour and overnight stay at St. Cloud State University.While on campus she learned about a university summerprogram that helped students to prepare for challenging collegecoursework. Learning about this program helped to alleviateJamie’s fears and by the time she left, she had fallen in love withthe school, imagining what her life would be like if she was astudent there. She told a staff member that Girl Scouts ConnectZallowed her to step out of her comfort zone and do things thatshe thought she couldn’t do. Her parents were astonishedbecause Jamie had never talked about going to college before.Jamie started making plans: she took the ACT, completed theapplication form herself, and took another tour of the university -this time with her parents. In May, Jamie was accepted to St.Cloud State and promptly registered for their summer program totake advantage of every bit of preparation she could beforeschool started in the fall. Through ConnectZ, Jamie realized shehad more options for her future than she ever thought possibleand gained the skills and confidence to pursue her new dreams.

Girl Scouts River Valleys currently supports a team of diversefemale staff members dedicated to both serving girls andcommitted to being mentors, models, and advocates. But as astaff-led initiative, the reach of ConnectZ is highly dependent onthe capacity of staff. It is only 60 percent funded throughindividual contributions and grants from corporations,foundations, and the United Way. Community support paves theway for exploring new programs, engaging new communities,and developing new opportunities to empower girls.

The Rochester Area Foundation is pleased to have providedgrant support for an effort in which 90 percent of high schoolseniors applied to colleges or universities who would otherwisenot have dreamed of their own potential.

Inclusion: We value persons, from all walks of life and we seek broad communityinvolvement; working together in partnership we accomplish much more.

12



Video Campaign Helps Women’sShelter Raise Awareness

Discovering how to tell their story and share important publicinformation is one of the most difficult obstacles facingnonprofits. Even more difficult is doing so with a small tononexistent advertising budget. One area nonprofit, theWomen’s Shelter, is overcoming those obstacles with the help ofthe Rochester Area Foundation and generous donors. As aresult, the Women’s Shelter, a crucial support system for womenand families in our area, produced two videos to help it reachthose who may be in need of its services.

A new venture, the video project was created to increaseawareness and reach additional local victims of domesticviolence. “Various survivors have mentioned that they wereunaware of the shelter and the services we provide here,” saysMichelle Kahn, the shelter’s director of development. “Our staffand board members thought this would be the best way toreach those individuals.” Executive Director Suzie Christiansenworked with the producer, Donny Rowles of Hey! OriginalStorytelling, on the video content and layout. “We werefortunate that we had the ability to use the grant to create twovideos, so we did not have to condense our messaging intoone long video,” she says. “We have one video that is focusedon helping educate victims about the shelter and make themaware that we are here whenever they may need us, while theother video will be instrumental in our ability to connect with thepublic, individual donors, grant makers, and foundations forour upcoming capital campaign.”

Shelter staff members and some of the women using theshelter’s services volunteered to be in the video. In addition twoactors were hired to portray the more complex scenes to betterportray the authenticity of a relationship in which domesticviolence occurs. “These videos allow us another outlet to reach

victims and help them realize that no matter how isolated theyfeel, they are not alone, and we are here to assist them,” Kahnsays. Working with the Rochester Area Foundation, theWomen’s Shelter was not only able to secure grant fundingfrom the Foundation’s endowment but also additional fundingfrom Foundation donors. Christiansen says, “It was an excellentexperience working with the Rochester Area Foundation. Thegrant application was easy to complete, and the staff wereextremely helpful when we had questions. It was a pleasure towork with them.”

Traditionally, securing grant funding for a communityawareness video is difficult. Most organizations have strictguidelines on how their annual grant distribution can be used,but with the Rochester Area Foundation’s permanentendowment model, the interest generated off of the principleenables a broader scope of grant applications. “Because ourbudget for grants is based off of a percentage of ourendowment, we can count on having money available annuallyto go out into the community,” says Rochester Area FoundationPresident JoAnn Stormer. “Some years there is more moneythan others, but the money is not raised yearly in a givingcampaign, which allows us to provide funding for projects thatare important to our nonprofit partner’s mission but not directlya basic need in the community.”

“An awareness video can carry an organization into the futureby generating buzz, followed by donations,” Kahn adds. “Themoney granted to us for these videos will come back ten-foldfrom donors compelled by the story it tells, and we thank ourfunders for that opportunity.”

To learn more about the Women’s Shelter and their work in our area, visitwww.womens-shelter.org or contact them at (507) 285-1938.

13

With the help of the Rochester AreaFoundation the Women’s Shelterproduced two videos to help itreach those who may be in needof its services.



Renovation ProvidesAffordability, Stability,Revitalization

Nationwide, Community Land Trust programs have proven tobe an effective tool for maintaining affordability of long-termhousing stock. For more than 15 years, First Homes hasrevitalized and stabilized neighborhoods in the greaterRochester area through its purchase and rehabilitationprojects. The oldest developments in Rochester—the Kutzky,Eastside, and Slatterly neighborhoods—have been theprimary beneficiaries.

In 2015, in southeast Rochester, First Homes discovered aforeclosed property with good value that would benefit theneighborhood through renovation. This property marks the210th home in the First Homes program. Purchased througha Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)program in January, 918 21st Street SE in Rochester was thefirst Community Land Trust (CLT) in the Meadow ParkNeighborhood development. The appraised value was$123,000, but through the HUD Non-Profit program, FirstHomes acquired it for $104,000.

Help in funding the renovations came via grants, applied forby First Homes’ staff—one from Minnesota Housing and onefrom Rochester City’s Community Development Block Grant.Updates and repairs on the home were assessed andincluded many new items: kitchen, windows, water heater,roof, siding, deck, paint, bathrooms, appliances, andflooring. Lead-based paint certified general contractors wereinvited to bid on the project, and a lead-based paintassessment, which determined a minimal amount needed tobe removed, was completed.

Renovations ran from May to November 2015. The housewill be sold below market purchase price to a family in needof an affordable home and with the requisite financing andcredit to secure a mortgage loan.

First Homes will retain the land subsidy and long-terminvestment through the CLT that allows the property to remain

affordable for the duration of the life of the home. What setsthe CLT model apart from other programs is its ability foraffordability to be passed from buyer to buyer. Whenhomeowners choose to sell their CLT home, it is sold again toa low to moderate-income buyer—keeping the homeaffordable in perpetuity. In addition, each property’srenovation makes it an asset to the neighborhood increasingneighborhood stability.

CLT Model Impacts Area Housing Needs

The 2014 study of housing needs in Olmsted County,produced by Maxfield Research, Inc., found thatavailability of affordable housing was insufficient inRochester. An option for increasing housing in Rochesterthat makes the biggest impact is purchasing andrenovating existing housing, focusing on neighborhoodrevitalization, and retaining the renovation investmentthrough the Community Land Trust (CLT) model. Thebenefits and proven history of restoring existing housingin neighborhoods are extremely effective for:

• enhancing the quality of life, • preserving housing affordability,• retaining the public’s investment, and • enhancing neighborhood stability by protecting homes against decreased property values.

14

The biggest benefit of Community Land Trusts is that it puts homeownershipwithin reach for today’s buyers as well as future buyers.


Innovation:We demonstrate and welcome creativity, resourcefulness and ingenuity forachieving community good.


First HomesMakes the AmericanDream a Reality

The “American Dream” is often taken for granted in the UnitedStates. You are born, grow up, get a job, get married, havechildren, and buy a home. That home provides your familysecurity and stability for many years and allows your childrento grow and prosper. Unfortunately, that dream is not a realityin many countries. Hitham Farah had this dream while growingup in Sudan. His story is one of hard work and perseverance inthe face of uncertainty and doubt. His journey to becoming ahomeowner is the reason First Homes is so critical to theRochester community and its quality of life.

In 2009, Farah lived in the capital of Sudan—Khartoum. A fewyears earlier, he had visited the U.S. Embassy and applied tolive in the United States but was rejected. He then entered acomputer-generated lottery and was placed on a list for entry atan undetermined time. “America was my dream,” he says. “Iwatched American movies, and I love America!” He recallseating lunch with a friend one day and receiving a call from anumber he did not recognize. He had won the “lottery” toimmigrate to the United States, and his dream was suddenly areality. “They said to me: ‘You can come to America,’ and Icried. It meant so much to me; it changed my life,” he says.

In the United States, he moved first to Albany, New York then toBoston and later to Los Angeles. “Los Angeles had very niceweather, but there was a lot of crime. It was not safe there, so Icame to Rochester,” he explains. He married his wife, Nada,while on a trip to Sudan, but returned home without her due totime constraints on his travel visa. When Nada learned shewas pregnant with twins, she stayed with her brother in Qatar,while Farah continued working and saving money for his newfamily to join him.

Farah missed the birth of his twin daughters, Jodie and Joan,and did not see them until they were three months old.“[Hitham and I] did not see each other for nine months,” says

Nada. “It was difficult to be so far away for so long.” In 2013,the entire family reunited in Rochester where Farah had renteda two-bedroom apartment. As rents increased and Farah’swages stagnated due to the slow-growing economy, theymoved frequently. That same year, they welcomed their thirdchild, Mohamed, and Farah knew he needed to find a solutionto their living situation. “We were renting and throwing awayour money, and we needed a home with more bedrooms,” hesays. “We did not think we could own a home until my friendtold me about First Homes and Shirley Lee.”

First Homes’ Program Manager Shirley Lee, assisted the couplein their first home-buying experience, helping them secure amortgage loan from a lender, and not long after, close on theirfour-bedroom, two-bathroom, and two-car-garage ranch-stylehome in northwest Rochester. “I have neighbors, and they likeus, and we like them,” Farah says. Nada is currently takingclasses at the Hawthorne Adult Education Center and workingon her English. To save on daycare costs, she stays home withtheir infant son while the twins attend Headstart. “The girls lovethe new home, and they can play in the backyard,” Nadasays. “They even have their own room, which was not possiblewhen we were renting.”

With the median purchase price of a home in the Rochesterarea at nearly $200,000, many homes are not affordable forstarting families. The land subsidy held by First Homes allowsthe purchase price of homes, like that of the Farah’s, to bebelow market value—making them available to growingfamilies that may only have one income. To qualify, the buyermust be eligible for a mortgage and have a good credit scoreto receive mortgage approval from the lender. Says Lee, “It’s sorewarding to work with families and make home ownershippossible through First Homes Community Land Trust program.There are more families that could benefit from this program ifonly we had more homes to offer.”

15


16

Adams, Theodore & CarolAdkins, Mike & MaureenAfdahl, Lee & Van JacobsenAhlquist, Dr. David & SusanAldis, Colin & PatAllen, George Leighton Sr. & Dorothy H. AllenAllen, VickiAllsen, Jon & AllsenAmadio, Dr. Peter & BariAmazonsmile FoundationAnderson, GailAnderson, James & JillAnonymousArland, David & BarbaraAuse, Bruce & KathleenBahn, Mark & LucyBakeman, MaryBaker, GailBardsley, WilliamBartel, Henry & ArdysBartleson, Dr. John & BarbaraBauer, PatBayuk, MarkBeck, Hayward & CarolynBeck, AndreaBecker, Dr. Joseph & MarcieBecker, ElizabethBehnke, LynnBenassi, Bob & ConnieBender, Dr. ClaireBenike, Aaron & AllisonBennett, Scott & KariBergey, CourtneyBernath, Michael & BonitaBerndt, Dan & SandyBerndt, Scott & MicheleBetcher, AudreyBeyerle, MaryBigler Financial ServicesBilling, LynneBlenkush, Brian & HazelBond, Dr. Jeffrey & EmilyBorchardt, Steve & AnneBorcherding, Donald & PatriciaBoswell, Thomas & CherylBouquet, Dr. Bernard & SusanBowman, AngieBowman, Jenna & AllisonBoyer, BarbaraBranes, KathleenBresnahan, John & Dr. JaneBroadbent, Dr. James & EdnaBrown, Michael & JulieBrubaker, Richard & NancyBrutinel, Dr. Mark & KathrynBuettner, Dr. Helmut & Heide

Burbank, Dr. Mahlon & MarilynBurton, Thomas & MaryBusche, DennisBymers, Ron & SallyByrne, James & SharonCalavano, AlanCampion, JaneCampion, MaryCarl & Verna Schmidt FoundationCarlson, Daniel & ElsaCarrow, David & LorraCarryer, Dr. Peter & CarolCass, Joe & AmyChafoulias, GusChapman, Randy & SherylChatfield Brass BandChatfield Lutheran ChurchChristopherson, Steven & MaroleeClausen, Jim & SueCMD Holdings, LLCColdagelli, John & JoneyConnell, Joseph & JaniceCook, Brian, Kathryn, Olivia & AnnaCoulee BankCourtier, DennisCraigmile, DavidCremer, Steven & UmbelinaCronin, John & ElizabethCRW Architecture + Design GroupCustomers First ConstructionD&R StarDahmes, M.J. & D.M.Daly, Roger & MaryDanielson, Larry & BettyDaube, Dr. Jasper & CynthiaDeBoer, Al & AnnDeCramer, Don & BarbaraDelfs, MarleneDiffley, Christopher & KristineDilley, Bernard & SandyDockerty, John & DianeDodge Center FoundationDollerschell, Allen & MarciaDorschner, LindaDousa, Dr. MiloslavaDunn, Dave & EllieDyck, P.J. & IsabelleEdmonson, Dr. John & ShirleyEhmke, MaryEich, Terry & AmyElliott, Chuck & MarlysEllsworth, Brian & AngelaElse, Loren & DiadraEmil & Dorothy Gauthier FamilyEngel, PaulEspinda, Herb & MarieEstate of Victor Scott

Evans, MaxExcelsior Bay Group, LLCExxonMobil FoundationF&M Community BankFahy-Gust, Ann & Art GustFamily Service RochesterFay, Warren & LaDonnaFedje, Tim & CherylFick, VickyField, Richard & ClaireFinne, GuyFishbaugher, SheilaFlasch, BarbaraFlathers, Harley & JuneFleischer, Philip & Kanjana NoiFleissner, Paul & LisaFleming, Robert & CynthiaFlesche, DeirdreFlies, Ken & MillieFockler, Arne & KayFogarty, Mike & JoyFooth, NormaForbes, Dr. Glenn & CelesteForrest, Dan & CherylFreitag, AvisFriends of MayowoodFrogner, David & BarbaraGamehaven Council-Boy Scoutsof AmericaGangeness, Ronald & JeanineGarber, James & RachelGeister, David & AllieGeppert, RollinGigliotti, Raymond & SheloyGoihl, ElizabethGorman, Dr. Column & UnaGorman, Paul & TerryGreater Rochester Advocates for Universities & CollegesGregerson, Robert & PatGregg, Leon & LindaGrinde, Paul & Debra JacobsonGuse, Larry & Christa WelbonGutschenritter, JeanHaglund, MarilynHagy, Richard & NancyHanlon, BarbaraHanson, MishaHanson, Ronnie & JodyHargens, PennyHarkess, Paul & RebecaHarper, Dr. Michael & MaryHarrington, Dean & SallyHarwick, Calvin & BeverlyHauser, Dr. MaryHawkanson, Herold & JeanetteHayden, Gary & Nancy

Hearne, George & JeanHellberg, Jeff & SusanHenderson, Hal & HollyHepper, Dr. Norm & CharHeritage Arms SocietyHerrell, John & RobertaHesley, JayHill, GaleHodgson, Dr. Stephen & EleanorHoffman, Dr. Alan & JudyHoffman, Harry & JuliaHohberger, Dr. George & SandraHolmes, Dr. David & VirginiaHolst, MarenHoly Anargyroi Greek Orthodox ChurchHome Federal Savings BankHorntvedt, Pastor Lester & DiannaHosier, Jim & LoisHosier, Tom & JanHouser, Dr. Wayne & ElizabethHuizenga, IsabelHunt, John & RitaHunter, Thomas & SueHunziker, John & Mary LouHyde, Eric & LoisIhrke, JessJacobs, PhyllisJepsen, Carl & MollyJohnson, Dewey & KakJohnson, JoyceJohnson, Larry & JanetJohnson, Leigh & JudyJohnson, RandyJohnson PrintingJordan, W.C. & BarbaraJorstad, LoisJustice, PamelaKamper, Reuben & CarolKane, DavidKarnes, Bill & JeannineKaron, BradleyKarsell, Dr. Philip & CatherineKeith, Honorable AlexanderKeith, PatriciaKelly, Thomas & DeniseKerr, David & AliceKey, CherylKirklin, LynneKiscaden, Richard & SheilaKlampe, Michael & ShirleyKlauda, FrankKlopp, John & DorothyKnopman, Dr. David & DeborahKnudsen, Dag & DeirdreKnutson ConstructionKnutson, Steve & Jean

2015 DonorsThank you to the following 2015 donors. Some contributions established new charitable funds while others were added toexisting funds or were made in memory or honor of a loved one. We gratefully acknowledge and thank the following donorsfor their generous gifts during the year. Rochester Area Foundation has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of our donorlist. Please contact us if we have unintentionally omitted or misspelled your name.



Stewardship:We take seriously the fiduciary responsibility of safeguarding and growing thephilanthropic assets and resources entrusted to us for the good of the greater Rochester area.

17

Kolling, SusanKoltes, Troy & LindaKorean War Veterans ClubKostelic, Kenneth & ElaineKrehbiel, Bradley & BethKrieger, PaulineKrom, RichardKruesel General Merchandise & Auction CompanyKTTC-TVKurth, KenKurtz, J.H. & K.M.Ladin-Fuchs, NevaLaRoque, Dennis & ArleenLarson, ScottLaurberg, Otis & Carol ShafferLayton, Dr. Donald & PhyllisLayton, Gregory & DonnaLee, Terry & ShirleyLehmkuhle, Stephen & CynthiaLiberato, TanyaLichty, Alan & MargaretLiebow, Mark & Tina LieblingLindell, Pete & JudyLing, WaltLocke, Dr. Richard & JeanLosness, Jon & SueLovgren, HelenLuebke, JonLund, David & DianeLundbeck, ElizabethLynch, Robert & MaryMadrey, Brandon & RebeccaMajerus, Mary JoManahan, Edward & MarjorieMarconett, JeanMarino, SusanMarreel, MarkMathias, PeterMayhew, Bob & ConnieMayo ClinicMcCauley, MargaretMcClees, MarthaMcClocklin, Robert & SusanMcDonough, Mike & CarolMcGoon, Dr. Michael & BonnieMcIlrath, Dr. Donald & AliceMcKee (Green), MarilynMerchant’s BankMerit ContractingMidthun, David &Vivien WilliamsMiller, Dr. R. Drew & RugyMiller, Glenn & JuneMiller, Rodney & JoanMiller, Thomas & PatriciaMiner, Jim & JeanMitchell, Glen & JudyNAMI Southeast MinnesotaNarr, Brad & TerryNelson, Dr. AudreyNelson, Dr. Evan & BonnieNelson, Nancy

Nelson, Terry & Senator CarlaNicholson, DennisNicolai, Steven & MaroleeNielsen, James & SusanNigon, Bernard & JulieNordrum, CharlotteNorton, Senator KimNoseworthy, John & PatriciaNuss, Robert & SharonNuss Truck GroupOeth, David & GwenOhly, Louis & JudyOlmsted National BankOlseen, William & MarilynOrbec, John & KarenOrvold, Richard & Marita HellerOsborn, Dr. Michael & MargotOsmundson, Dr. Philip & MargaretOstrom, Thomas & MaryOtto Bremer FoundationPace, David & ValeriePadgett, William & SharonParker, BernardParker, DianeParsons, E. Dudley & MargaretPEO Sisterhood Chapter ILPerkins, Locke & DorothyPeter, Richard & ShirleyPeterson, Merle & BettyPetitt, Dr. RonPetrick, Ed & PattyPiepgras, David & JanePlitzuweit, Irvin & MaureenPostier, MarilynPowers, JoePrakash, Dr. Udaya & PushpaPremier Bank RochesterPurrington, Brian & AnneQualey, BettyQualey, Bruce & SaraReinardy, Jeff & MelindaRestovich, HelenRice, Sean & DarciRichardson, BobRichter, Dale & BarbaraRicklefs, Merlin & KarenRobertson, MarileeRochester Area Family YRochester Family Eye ClinicRochester Music GuildRochester Public Library FoundationRogers, MichonRogers, PatRolsch, Steve & LindaRome, Dr. Jeffrey & SharonRoque, RitaRosener, Richard & JoAnneRowley, Edward & JaniceRustad, Christopher & AngieRyan, Bruce & KathrynRyno, Richard & PenelopeRyu, Dr. Jay & Dr. Patricia PellikkaSalmi, Marilyn

Sanders, Terry & JacquelineSantrach, Dr. PaulaScanlon, Dr. Paul & MaggieSchafer, Al & JulieSchaff, Dr. Hartzell & VoniSchmidt, GoodmanScholz, Dr. DonaldSchroeder, Jim & PennySchuller, Peter & JudithSchulz-Fincke, Konrad & BettySeason’s HospiceSeeger, Ronald & TheresaSeely, RobertSeneca Foods CorporationSepich, Chris & KarenShannon, Larry & Dr. WendySharbrough, Frank & LyndaSheedy, Dr. Patrick & KarenSloan, Jim & JudySmith, Dallas & BettySmith, Donald & NancySmith, GarySmith, Dr. Hugh & AynsleySmith, PrenticeSmithson, Dr. William & JudySnyder, Eric & MeghanSolem, D.L. & M.D.Sorenson, Charles & ValerieSorenson, Eric & KristinSorenson, Roger & JoanneSperling, Steve & ShelleySpinler, Kevin & Mary JoSt. Croix Valley Civil War RoundtableStaff Community FundStenehjem, Dean & JulianneStenhaug, David & SaraStewart, Dr. Jack & MarilynStormer, Stephen & JoAnnStrofus, ElizabethStrotz, LornaStuder, Scott & TrishaSudor, DonaldSuk, Jim & JillSupalla, Don & StephanieSutor, AprilSwanigan, RichardSwede, SylviaSwedlund, Dr. Harry & DeloresSwendsen, Leon & MadalynneTalen, JamesTasler, Mark & SherylThink Mutual BankThornton, BradleyThornton, Steve & NancyThrondson, Terry & DebraThurber, Dr. Deloran & EdithTieskoetter, Paul & BarbaraTomlonovic, CeciliaTomlonovic, KathleenTrotter, Virge & JacquelineTrousdale, Dr. Robert & MaryTuntland, Al & SharonUnited Way of Olmsted County

US Bank FoundationUtz, Mark & JuliaVan Dellen, Dr. Richard & MarianVermeersch, Paul & LucilleVetter, Dr. Richard & JaniceVickers, Jack & MaryVig, Guy & KaraVolkmar, William& Sheri BrandvoldWade, John & PegWalch, David & MargaretWalker, James & SandraWally, Charles & JaniceWarren, Edward & M. Marsha HallWasserman, SusanWees, JohnWeigel, KarelWeir, TimWeis BuildersWeisbrod, Charles & MyrleeWendland, Craig & JudyWendland & UtzWente, Tom & EllenWenz, JoyceWesterfield, David & KarlaWiktor, Bill & Elaine CaseWilford, Adam & HeatherWilkins, RobertWillever, NinaWilliams, J.D.Williams, Thomas & MarionWilliamson, Jeffrey & CandaceWilliamson, Honorable JodiWinona State UniversityWithers, Charles & BarbaraWollaeger, CynthiaWollaeger, WendyWood, Howard & MaryWright, Douglas & LoriYaggy, Ron & JudyYanish, Ronald & DianneYanowitz Law FirmYtterberg, Dr. Steven & KarenZimmerman, Warren & HelenZumbro Valley Arms Collectors



2015 Honor andMemory GiftsGifts were given asmemorials in memory of thepeople listed below:Michael KlampeAnne ManahanPaul Dilley, Henry Tvedt, Lee BlenkushFrancis ChappuisDarwin OlsonLee BlenkushHarold WenteMike LadinLucille PhillipsMarty WicksBruce SwansonPhyllis BucherAline BergeRichard SheldonNorman & Ruth PruterJack & Rosanna GoihlPaul GruchowTine TheveninRoy & Ruth GeppertTom Hosier

Gifts were given in honor of thepeople listed below:Sharon Van De NorthPat GannonCindy WollaegerRoy FranklinJoy FogartyFriends at Mayo ClinicDonald & Barbara DeCramerJean Johnson & William TowelyJon Oviatt

2015 New FundsDon & Stephanie SupallaMichael John CarryerCheryl McGrath KeyMary F. HauserSperling Family FoundationGeorge Leighton Allen Sr.& Dorothy Hamm

Ashley Marie Hanson MemorialRobert WilkinsTom Hosier MemorialMarlene DelfsJohn & Dottie KloppBring Back the BellSustainable Agriculture & Forestry Scholarship

Gamehaven Council – Boy Scouts of America

Family Service RochesterChatfield Lutheran ChurchRochester Public Library FoundationHoly Anargyroi Greek Orthodox ChurchFriends of MayowoodSeason’s HospiceweGive365Dodge Center Foundation-Riverside Cemetery

Victor Scott TrustJames Broadbent

Heritage SocietyMembersNeil AndersonDick & Judy ArgueJohn BakkeWilliam & Mary Ann BoyneMargaret BreiseJane CampionDr. Peter & Carol C. CarryerJim & Sue ClausenAl & Ann DeBoerMs. Janet DennyDr. Joseph & Louis DuffyEdward EngelDr. & Mrs. FergusonBarbara FlaschMike & Joy FogartyToni A. HansonPaul & Rebeca HarkessRichard Orvold & Marita HellerMarianne HockemaMr. Roy L. HoffmanJohn & Rita HuntMrs. Lois A. JorstadES JuddDan & Mary Jo KellyPortia KendallLyle & Nancy KuhlmannGlenn & Ella Van LaninghamDr. & Mrs. Donald D. LaytonJon & Sue LosnessWallace MerrittHarold & Shirley MillerThomas & Patricia MillerMary Elizabeth MusseyAudrey M. Nelson, MDJames & Jean NewcomerDavid & Gwen Oeth

Joe PowersBruce & Sara QualeyChristine SadowskiAl & Julie SchaferRobert SchoenfelderLarry & Wendy ShannonJim & Judy SloanDr. Hugh & Aynsley SmithJim & Joyce TalenSteve & Nancy ThorntonAl & Sharon Tuntland Amy WaughKarel WeigelJoseph WeisJoyce WenzNedra & John WicksRonald & Diane Yanish


18

$39,233,615Total Assets___________

559Total Grants & Scholarships___________

$2,711,336Total Gifts & Pledges

797Number of Gifts___________

24Number of New Funds___________

74Number of Agency FundsEndowed

NonEndowed

37% Health & Human Services

10% Community Development

31% Education

11% Scholarships

4% Other

7% Arts & Culture

2015 at a Glance

Number of Grants by Issue Area:


WHY JOIN weGive365?A dollar a day. Joining weGive365 allows you to leverage yourcharitable contribution with others to support the GreaterRochester Area nonprofits. The more people who join, the morewe can do together.

Through weGive365, you engage in community philanthropywith others who care about improving the quality of life of ourcommunity. You will learn about the nonprofits that work to meetour area’s needs.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO JOIN?Everyone. You can even sponsor someone to participate…. agrandchild or child for whom you want to “plant the seed ofphilanthropy.”

WHAT ARE THE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES?$365. Funds can be donated by check/bank withdrawalannually or by $91.25 quarterly withdrawals from your bankaccount.

IS $365 THE ONLY OPTION?For membership, yes. A dollar a day. Some members choose togive more and that’s great! There’s also an option to become alifetime donor for $3,650.

WHERE DOES MY DONATION GO?50% of the funds raised are placed in the grants pool and 50%are placed in an endowed fund which will grow to support futuregrants. For example, if 50 people are members there would bepool of about $18,250. Of that 50% is allocated to grantstotaling $9,125 for that year.

HOW ARE GRANTS DECIDED?Grant requests are submitted annually to the fund. Membershave the opportunity to review them and vote on how many willbe funded and at what level.

ARE THERE OTHER BENEFITS OF JOININGWeGive365?Yes. You have the opportunity to meet, connect and network withother area philanthropic individuals in our community. You alsosee the benefits of how the awardees are using the weGive365grants.

In 2015 each of the following organizations received a $1,000grant. The needs addressed for the community with these grantsincluded:

Children’s Dental Health Services provides preventative dentalcare and educational services to under and uninsured childrenwho are living in poverty and do not have access to consistent

oral health care. Grant funds purchased 1,400 “Happy Smile”kits for distribution at community- and school-based outreachevents.

Cronin Home provides protective and caring housing forhomeless men and women with chronic chemical dependence,who may also be physically or mentally challenged, in order tosupport their recovery. Grant funds were used to purchase newwashers and dryers to provide clean clothing and linens forresidents and control maintenance costs for laundry services.

The Caregiver Connection Expo, sponsored by Elder Network,connects family caregivers, professional caregivers andhealthcare professionals with appropriate resources in thecommunity to better equip seniors and their families forindependent living and avoid nursing home placement. Theirgrant was used to help fund the “Caregiver’s Survival Training &Journal” for attendees of the Expo.

Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge assists teens and adults inovercoming chemical addictions and other life controllingproblems by addressing their physical, emotional and spiritualneeds. Grant funds were used to purchase computers fortraining in order to increase the number of graduates who aregainfully employed following recovery.

The Reading Center/Dyslexia Institute of Minnesota providestesting, one-on-one tutoring, and training for 4-6 year olds withdyslexia and their parents in order to help young learnersdevelop reading and coping skills in preparation for a lifetime oflearning. Grant funds supported a partnership with AldrichNursery School to provide Pre-school Coaching for 25 teachers.

Rochester ACT on Alzheimer’s mission is to assist Rochester inbecoming a dementia friendly and livable community. Grantfunds will be used to create a banner for use at communityevents and educational postcards to generate public discussion.

Rochester Rotary Risers introduced My Book Day in 2014, anaward winning program to increase local literacy for youngstudents learning to read. Grant funds were used to expand theprogram to ten elementary schools within the Rochester schooldistrict. The day long celebration includes readings by local“celebrity” readers, a tour of the library’s services for children,creation of a summer reading plan, and a gift of a hard coverbook to each student inscribed with their name.

For more information on becoming part of the weGive365 group,contact the Rochester Area Foundation at (507) 282-0203 or go online athttp://www.RochesterArea.org/give/wegive365.php.


Collaborative Giving, Collaborative Learning, Collaborative VotingEveryone Can Be a Philanthropist

19



Save the DateCheck our website at www.RochesterArea.org for more details about any of these events or call us at (507) 282-0203.

Celebration of Philanthropy

Thursday, October 27, 2016 at the Hilton Doubletree RochesterGrant awards will be announced and new donors will be recognized; feel free to bring a guest!

RSVP to (507) 282-0203 or [email protected]

2016 Nonprofit Academy

March 2, 2016 How to Select the Right Board ModelApril 21, 2016 Legal Aspects to Fund RaisingMay 11, 2016 Marketing & Driving Awareness About Your OrganizationJuly 13, 2016 Running Effective MeetingsSeptember 7, 2016 Are You Ready For a Grant?November 2, 2016 Resource Development for Nonprofits

Planned Giving Seminar Series

April 6, 2016 Estate Administration 101: Understanding Probate, Trust Administration& Estate Tax

June 14, 2016 Estate Planning 101: Protecting & Preserving Your Family's LegacySeptember 20, 2016 Charitable Giving and Incapacity Planning

Other Services

April 28, 2016 Community Inservice: Applying For Grants From the Rochester Area Foundation

Celebration of the New Rochester Area Foundation Building

May 11, 2016 • 4:00pm Ribbon Cutting for 12 Elton Hills Drive NW

The Rochester Area Foundation would like to express appreciation to the following companies for their sponsorship in2015. Their support enabled the Foundation to spread our message of community philanthropy and the benefit of usingthe community endowment to grow charitable trusts. Other organizations who are interested in providing sponsorshipsupport should contact JoAnn Stormer at (507) 282-0203 or [email protected].

20


Rochester Area Foundation & AffiliatesConsolidated Statement of Financial PositionDecember 31, 2015 and 2014

Assets 2015 2014

Cash and cash equivalents 941,778 4492,785Interest and dividends receivable 12,899 12,989Pledges receivable, net 444,112 245,500Notes receivable 165,019 2169,753Investment in marketable securities 25,622,668 27,308,756Beneficial interest in trust held by others 533,206 619,369Loans receivable, net 2,172,351 2,256,094Leasehold improvements and equipment, net 876,068 4,487Other assets 511,930 693,002Land held in Community Land Trust 7,953,584 7,983,584Total Assets 39,233,615 39,786,319

Liabilities and Net Assets

LiabilitiesLine of credit 201,794Accounts payable and accrued expenses 80,734 28,588Grants payable 72,976 48,795Program assets held for others 540,483 550,081Annuities payable and unitrust obligations 642,520 676,603Deferred revenue 116,334Notes payable 570,686 854,766Total Liabilities 2,225,527 2,158,833

Commitments

Net AssetsUnrestricted 32,620,334 33,239,732Temporarily restricted 2,466,110 2,466,110Permanently restricted 1,921,644 1,921,644Total Net Assets 37,008,088 37,627,486

Total Liabilities and Net Assets 39,233,615 39,786,319

Audit status – financial results for the year ended December 31, 2015, have not been audited at this time.The audited2015 financial report will be available at the Rochester Area Foundation office and on the website uponcompletion of the audit.

21


YOUR COMMUNITY.YOUR FOUNDATION.

“The highest use of capital is not tomake more money, but make moneydo more for the betterment of life.”

– Henry Ford

12 Elton Hills Drive NW I Rochester, MN 55901www.RochesterArea.org I Phone: 507.282.0203


Documents

YOURCOMMUNITY. YOUR FOUNDATION....Caring Bridge website, letting Ashley know how much she was missed. Thanks to the foresight of her parents, Ashley’s mission lives on through her