Minot Area Community Foundation Supports Rural Initiatives

Posted: Jun 24 2025

The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) is proud to continue its commitment to supporting rural communities through recent grants that benefit initiatives aimed at helping these areas grow stronger and thrive. These efforts reflect MACF’s dedication to improving quality of life and ensuring that rural communities have access to the resources they need to flourish.
“Rural communities are the heart of our region, and their well-being is essential to the strength of our entire area,” said Jason Zimmerman, President of the Minot Area Community Foundation. “We’re honored to support projects that not only meet immediate needs but also help build lasting infrastructure, community pride, and inclusive spaces for generations to come.”

Recent Grant Recipients

Lake County Historical Society
A grant of $4,000 from MACF’s Mabel Kizima Fund was awarded to support the construction of an accessible boardwalk connecting new ADA-compliant restrooms to the Pioneer Village in Kenmare. The village includes 27 historic buildings and a variety of exhibits—including a dress shop, a military museum, a toy museum, and more. Built by volunteers, the new boardwalk ensures that this community gem remains accessible for all who wish to visit.

Glenburn Booster Club
A $5,000 grant from the Mike & Dorothy Dolan Fund was awarded to support the installation of a new playground structure, surfacing, and basketball hoops at Glenburn Public School. The current equipment is more than 30 years old and beyond repair. This project will benefit not only Glenburn students, but also children from surrounding communities—including Minot Air Force Base, Deering, Lansford, and Ruthville. The playground serves as a central gathering place for both students and the wider community.

Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood (MLS) Public School District
A grant of $10,000, also from the Mike & Dorothy Dolan Fund, was awarded to MLS Public School District to support the replacement of the high school’s original gym floor. This gym is a vital space for school physical education, sports, and a range of community functions—reinforcing the school's role as a hub for the surrounding area.

Burlington Rec Commission
A $4,050 grant from the Mike & Dorothy Dolan Fund was awarded to the Burlington Rec Commission to support the purchase of equipment and field supplies for the 2025 summer youth sports season. Programs supported by this grant include Tiny Tots, T-ball for Tots, Coach Pitch & Cal Ripken Baseball, and Elementary Softball. With a recent decline in funding, this one-time grant will help ensure these programs remain affordable and accessible - supporting safe, inclusive play for youth across Burlington and nearby communities.

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Each of these projects reflects MACF’s mission to enrich the quality of life in our region by supporting local philanthropy, encouraging community collaboration, and serving as a resource for rural initiatives that strengthen connection, growth, and opportunity.