Recently, two headlines in the Minot Daily News Opinion page caught my eye. The first published September 30, “America’s prosperity, charity come from entrepreneurship,” and the second published November 12-13, “North Dakotan’s are charitable givers,” prompted me to reflect upon the history of Minot and the Minot Area Community Foundation, which recently marked its 22nd year of being the center for community giving.

First, being a 3rd generation entrepreneur and past businessowner allowed me to reflect on the rich heritage of the greater Minot area business community and what it means to give back all while investing in our businesses. Second, we continue to see every day that North Dakotans are charitable givers, and I would contend that the citizens of the greater Minot area have led that charge.

At the Minot Area Community Foundation, we have the distinct honor of representing our donors and their charitable intent to support numerous organizations that better the lives of the communities we serve and live in. Long-time local entrepreneurs like the Westlies, Odells, and Dolans, to name just a few, were the same leaders who saw how important it was to give back to the community that provided them with so much.

Today,we proudly continue serving Minot and the surrounding communities by managing over 130 distinctive endowments and granting back over 20 million dollars and counting since our founding in 2000. As we embark on the time of year where we celebrate the holidays and the passing of another calendar year, I find myself looking back on 2022, and instead of focusing on the challenges we have faced, I prefer to look at all the good things that have blessed us. It may sound cliché’, but we have so much to be thankful for.

First, for the visionaries who had the foresight to establish a vehicle for people to give back to the area in perpetuity. Second, for all our donors that have entrusted us with carrying out their charitable wishes, we are honored to have that responsibility; we have the best job representing you. Third, for our donors who see a need and act, many times privately, to make a difference and help address a need in our community.

At the Minot Area Community Foundation, we have the tools to help you achieve all your charitable giving goals. By establishing an endowment, your gift will serve those charities that are most important to you into perpetuity. As a donor, with a qualifying gift, you may also be able to take advantage of the ND income tax credit of 40%.

Very recently a donor stopped by to bring a check for their endowment. During our conversation they related a comment once made to them, “it is best to give some with a warm hand.” Indeed,it is.