HOT PURSUIT

One of the things that has always impressed me about Steele County is its strength when it comes to nonprofit organizations.

From the food shelf to Exchange clubs and center to historical society and most recently the area’s newest childcare academy, the nonprofits pack a power punch when it comes to helping our communities.

This week we offer a glimpse of some of the area’s top nonprofits in a special section. We partnered with the nonprofits to tell their story through special advertisements promoting their groups and organizations. We captured 18 nonprofits, giving readers a variety of the various organizations serving our area.

Behind each of those groups are mostly volunteers passionate about helping the greater cause of humanity. Some groups have paid staff members, but volunteers are what keep most of the nonprofits alive and functioning.

We hope to provide readers with a greater understanding of what the nonprofits do for our area. We also recognize that many people are looking for ways to donate money as the end of the year approaches. Take a look at our special section, and I think you’ll find some excellent opportunities to make year-end donations.

Churches probably come to mind first when we think of nonprofits.

In some small communities like my hometown of Brownton, Minn. there aren't many nonprofit organizations left. But that didn’t stop a retired farmer who passed away earlier this year from donating $1.8 million to my home church.

But, as you’ll see in our special section, nonprofits embody so much more than just churches. And don’t ever think you need millions to make a difference. The financial success of most nonprofits is built on much smaller donations.

Charitable nonprofits embody the best of America, and yes, Steele County. Nonprofits play a fundamental role in creating more equitable and thriving communities. And nonprofits can do even more by coming together to protect both their legacy and their indispensable role in America’s future.

Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in building healthy communities by providing critical services that contribute to economic stability and mobility. They also strength communities in other important ways. Frequently, nonprofit leaders are the voice of the people they serve.

I have noticed nonprofits often understand better than anyone else their communities’ needs and the best ways to meet them. Strong nonprofits that are connected to other community leaders can spur growth and opportunity.

Nonprofits like the United Way, for example, are vital to drawing attention to societal issues that we all need to be aware of going on around us.

There is currently a crisis with childcare in rural Minnesota. And Leo Augusta Childcare Academy, which just opened its doors this year, is helping fill that void.

Even if you can't make a financial donation, I hope our special section creates a greater awareness to what’s making our communities better. Nonprofits are vastly improving the quality of life all around us.

I hope providing you with a connection to nonprofits finds you going in hot pursuit of helping mankind.