Lighthouse Beginnings received grant support from the Artesian Homes Charitable Fund, a Partner Fund of the Initiative Foundation, for operating support. The organization helps people overcome addiction, mental health challenges and the impacts of incarceration.

Foundation Awards $378,000 in First-Quarter 2026 Grants

June 26, 2026 |

The Initiative Foundation and its Partner Funds awarded 77 grants totaling more than $378,000 during the first quarter of 2026, supporting organizations and schools across Central Minnesota.

The Foundation’s family of Partner Funds awarded 68 grants totaling more than $312,000.

The Initiative Foundation awarded nine grants during the first quarter of 2026 that delivered $66,000 into the region—including several rapid-response grants to support nonprofit needs.

“These grants are a great example of neighbors helping neighbors,” said Amy Trombley, vice president for community at the Initiative Foundation. “During the first quarter of 2026, Initiative Foundation and Partner Fund grants supported students, helped meet basic needs and backed community projects. These grants are creating opportunities and making a real difference in people’s lives.”

First-quarter Initiative Foundation Grants

The following organizations received Initiative Foundation grants during January, February and March of 2026.

Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation—A $25,000 annual investment to support economic development initiatives in Stearns, Benton and Sherburne counties.
Anna Marie’s Alliance—$1,000 in honor of Santo Cruz to recognize his service on the Initiative Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

First-quarter Partner Fund Awards

The Initiative Foundation manages a variety of Partner Funds created by families, businesses, nonprofits and volunteer-led groups. The following grants were among those made by our Partner Funds during January, February and March of 2026.

Artesian Homes Charitable Fund—$50,000 to Grove Christian Academy for operating support.
Paula and Chad Becker Fund—$5,000 to the Wolves Youth Wrestling Club serving the Long Prairie, Grey Eagle and Browerville areas for mats, banners and general operations.
Patrick and Jane Mitchell Family Fund—$2,500 to Quiet Oaks Hospice House and its Veterans Compassionate Care Fund.

See the full list of grantees.

To support efforts like these, or to create your own Partner Fund, visit ifound.org/ways-to-give/start-a-fund/