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Why Give to LEAF 742?

Because every student deserves access and opportunity.

At LEAF 742 (District 742’s Local Education & Activities Foundation), we believe that education is the foundation of a thriving community. Your support helps us go beyond the basics—fueling creativity in classrooms, opening doors to extracurricular involvement, and ensuring every student in District 742 has access to the tools and experiences they need to succeed.

Your Gift Makes a Direct Impact

LEAF 742 partners with the St. Cloud Area School District to bridge the gap between public funding and the real needs of our schools. Whether it’s providing essential classroom resources or removing financial barriers to student participation in sports, music, or debate—your donation creates opportunities where they’re needed most.

What Your Support Helps Fund:

  • Innovative Academic Programs: STEM, literacy, and arts-based initiatives that spark student curiosity.

  • Activities and Athletics: Scholarships and support for students to participate fully in sports, music, theater, and clubs.

  • Teacher and Staff Grants: Helping passionate educators bring creative ideas to life.

Why Give Through LEAF?

  • Local Impact: 100% of your donation stays within District 742 schools.

  • Long-Term Sustainability: Our endowment model ensures your gift keeps giving year after year.

  • Transparent Stewardship: We’re committed to accountability and measurable results.

  • Community-Driven: We work closely with educators, parents, and local leaders to identify real needs and fund real solutions.

Be a Champion for Local Education

When you give to LEAF 742, you’re not just donating—you’re investing in brighter futures, stronger schools, and a healthier community. Whether it’s a one-time gift, a recurring donation, or a legacy gift, every dollar counts.

Together, we can help every student reach their full potential.

Why do I give to LEAF?

Tara and Ben Winchester

“We support public education because we want all children to not only make good choices but HAVE good choices. We know that a strong and equitable public education is the foundation upon which our society and democracy is built, and we cannot imagine a future without it.”

Pat & Cathy Mullen

“Pat and I know that it is essential to support public education because we appreciate the great work that teachers did for our children and know that teachers and programs deserve the support to care for all of “our” kids.” 

Beth & Anthony Fenstad

“Strong districts support not only the continuation but also the growth of healthy, equitable programming for all students across the district. As an parent, advisor, and educator in 742, I witness LEAF’s generosity firsthand; I am extremely proud to be a part of a strong district with so many generous, future-focused community members behind it.”

Joe Mullen

“Except perhaps for primary healthcare, nothing a society can do to better itself is more important than education, and especially education of our youth.  Education stimulates advancements in every field, opens doors for children of all talent levels and, when it results in life-long learning, it can also promote healthy emotional balance.”

Jim & Mary Michaud

“Mary and I believe deeply in public education.  Our support didn’t end just because we retired.”

Al Dahgren, Owner of Once Upon A Child Clothing Store

“As a current member of the board of education I donate to LEAF. I am able to see firsthand how LEAF donations are put to good use. 742 has an exceptional team of educators and great educational programming. LEAF donations help our educators, filling in where funding is short, accelerating learning and improving performance. LEAF is synonymous with improved educational and extracurricular experiences.”

Peggy Carlson & Chuck Nielsen

“I am thankful every day for the excellent education that I received as a student in ISD 742; donating is my way of giving back to the district that provided me with that education. My grandchildren were students/athletes in ISD 742 for most of their 13 school years; I donate to help provide that same quality education and activity opportunities to other children. “

Janna & Mike LaFountaine

“We donate because we believe in the value of public education and in particular ALL the extracurricular activities that LEAF supports!”

Gary & Jane Marsden

“The American Dream….that all children, regardless of their family and social background, should have a decent chance to improve their lot in life…is tied to education.  Gary (from Putnam’s book ..Our Kids.. “ 

North Risk Partners Insurance Agency

“North Risk Partners is a proud sponsor of LEAF and the educational opportunities LEAF is able to provide for students regardless of background. It is rewarding seeing our dollars put to great-use in the community through extra-curricular activities, grants, and support for faculty to provide quality learning experiences for all students.”

Karel & Mike Helgeson

“In 1968, my world was enlarged by meeting Methodists at Tech” (Karel Helgeson Class of 1970).  “I valued the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and experiences which broadened my world view.”  (Mike Helgeson Tech Class of 1970)

Jim O’Neill

“I donate because I taught for 42 years and know how difficult it can be at times to  furnish materials for the classroom while facing other personal expenses in a job that requires a great deal and does not pay accordingly.”

Diane Moeller

“I give to public education for many reasons.  First of all it is the equalizer to promote our democracy. Any support we can give it to that end, is an investment in everyone’s future. Secondly, some students need more support to be a part of activities, or to get additional support for their academic progress. LEAF is a wonderful way to support students directly. Finally, I was blessed to be able to serve a 44-year career in public education, and I want to give back in ways I am able.”

Dr. John Weitz

“Education is the key to the whole shabang”

Ginny & Jim Bisek

“As former educators, we both know that reaching every student is important. Giving to LEAF helps the teachers and students reach their goals whether it’s in the classroom or in extracurricular activities.”

Dan Anderson, State Farm Agency

“My office team gets to pick our donations that we give each year.  LEAF has been chosen for multiple years as we see the benefit in providing resources to our younger generation that they may not get without our help.”

Pat Welter, Retired Educator

“I have spent many years of my life as an educator in public education and donating in support of public education. I believe that education, and specifically quality public education, is the most important way to provide all kids, regardless of origin, a fair start in life.  It is a critical foundation stone of the American Dream and we must support it!”