A new opportunity is giving Nashwauk-area residents, families, and community members a powerful way to invest in the future of their hometown.
The Nashwauk Area Community Fund has been given a dollar-for-dollar matching opportunity that will double every gift and strengthen a permanent community resource designed to give back for generations.
Made possible through a grant from the Blandin Foundation administered by the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation (GRACF), this initiative will match all contributions up to $50,000. The match is open now through December 31, 2027, and every dollar contributed during that time will count toward the goal.
The Nashwauk Area Community Fund strengthens quality of life across Nashwauk and surrounding communities by supporting local nonprofits, community initiatives, and emerging needs identified by residents. Built on the generosity of more than 250 donors since its founding in 2000, the Fund has grown to over $1 million and has returned more than $250,000 to the community—demonstrating the lasting impact of local giving.
This matching opportunity significantly amplifies the impact of every contribution. Each gift is doubled and permanently invested, increasing the Fund’s endowment and the annual grants it can provide. Rather than meeting only immediate needs, this effort is about building an enduring source of support. With each donation matched and invested for the long term, the Fund becomes an even stronger resource—one that can respond to community priorities year after year.
“Nashwauk has always been the kind of place where people show up for each other—this is just another way to do that,” said Adele Yorde, Vice Chair of the Nashwauk Area Community Fund advisory committee. “What’s special about this opportunity is that it turns everyday generosity into something that keeps working long after we’re gone. It’s a way of taking care of the future without losing sight of where we came from.”
Simply put: this is a rare moment when a single gift can do twice as much and last forever.
The timing of this initiative is especially meaningful. Over the next 20 to 30 years, more than $530 million is expected to transfer between generations in Itasca County. This shift presents a unique opportunity to reinvest in the communities that helped build those assets.
Through gifts—both current and planned—donors can create a lasting charitable legacy while supporting the place they call home. Even a small portion directed toward community funds like Nashwauk’s has the potential to transform local communities for decades to come.
The Nashwauk Area Community Fund is guided by a volunteer advisory committee made up of community members who understand local needs and priorities. Their leadership ensures that grantmaking reflects the values, challenges, and opportunities unique to the area. The current Advisory Committee Members are: Brenda DeNucci, Amanda Gangl, Dan Kelly (Chair), Amber Olesiak, Patti Rebrovich (Treasurer), Hannah Roberts, Nancy Roberts (Secretary), Wayne Roberts, Roberta Smith, Warren Stolp, and Adele Yorde (Vice Chair).
Community members are encouraged to take part in this effort by making a gift during the match period. Contributions of any size will be matched dollar-for-dollar—doubling their impact and helping unlock the full $50,000 opportunity. For more information visit nashwaukfund.org or CLICK HERE to donate.
