AspireNORTH — a new program of Minnesota North College’s five campuses — shows the exciting changes possible when key institutions intentionally set their sights on coordinated regional impact. Shifting to build systems that work for students – not the other way around – sets our local colleges on a path to offer learning that fits …
Tasha Connelly left Grand Rapids after high school and didn’t think anything would ever bring her back. But after years away living in other states, including Florida and Colorado, the usual things began to chip away at her resolve: family ties, a desire for more community, the lure of less traffic. She eventually returned, but …
What does a welcoming rural community look like? Is it the shower of smiles you get while walking down main street? The sign at the town’s entrance shouting WELCOME in all CAPS? Or the local cafe where the many faces of the community come together for coffee? Creating a welcoming community, for newcomers and for existing residents, is …
Flood damage from last week’s torrential rains have put leaders across northeastern Minnesota to the test. From emergency services workers to church communities to school staff, those in positions of authority are leading the way towards securing resources for recovery, and bolstering their neighbors with hope. Blandin Foundation has joined the Northland Foundation, AgStar Financial …
For Michael Wade, every minute holds the possibility to change a community. “Give me a half-hour, I can help someone move into a new home. Give me an hour, and I can start a food shelf,” says this resident of Virginia, Minnesota, and driving force behind the new Virginia Indian Center, a drop-in center for …