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We are celebrating LEAF 742 Board member Mark Thelen, the winner of a local recent philanthropy award! Mark is an integral member of our PR Committee, making us laugh and sharing his years of local advertising knowledge with us.  Here’s what the Central MN Community Foundation folks had to say about him:  Mark Thelen – Alex Didier Award in Philanthropy …

Housing is a cornerstone of community well-being, influencing everything from economic stability to health outcomes. In Stearns County, Minnesota, recent data sheds light on the state of housing in the area, revealing trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

Public education is the cornerstone of any thriving community. It shapes our future leaders, innovators, and community changers. To ensure that education remains accessible and effective, education foundations like ours are an important part of the fabric of the community. We provide essential support that enhances the educational landscape in district 74…

The District 742 Local Education & Activities Foundation kicks off our Adopt-A-Classroom Project each Fall! LEAF’s goal is to connect businesses, individuals and groups to specific classrooms to help provide needed supplies that the District is unable to fund. Supporters can “adopt” a classroom (Early Education, Elementary, Junior High or Senior High)…

Last school year, Ms. Bogel, a teacher at Oak Hill elementary school, applied for a LEAF grant to purchase a classroom set of ukuleles. She received the grant, purchased the instruments and started using them right away! One of the 4th grade music students, Livia, told her mom that Ms. Bogel made it fun and exciting to play – Livy loved practicing with he…

9/3/2024 A freshness permeates the first week of school with new starts, outfits, and impressions. Unlike the closing of a school year highlighted by graduation goodbyes and excitement for a much-needed break, the first week brings new beginnings and a plethora of amazing possibilities for our colleagues, families, and students.  Back to school has alwa…