THANK YOU — New Richland Area Foundation Fund Chair Gail Schmidt, left, and Karen Buum of the Waseca Area Foundation were all smiles as they announced a recent donation of four semi trailer loads of corn to the NRAFF. The generous donor wished to remain anonymous. (Star Eagle photo by Jody Wynnemer)
Local farmer anonymously makes 3700-bushel donation to NR fund
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
This time of year, most of Southern Minnesota’s agricultural specialists are at work day and night harvesting soybeans and corn. The roads and highways are packed with combines coming and going to various fields, and trucks and grain wagons heading to the elevators and grain bins. One New Richland area farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, decided to share some of his bountiful harvest with his community. He made a significant donation to the New Richland Area Foundation Fund.
“The NRAFF received four semi loads of corn,” said Gail Schmidt, NRAFF Chair. “It equates to 3,700 bushels. Our area is such a successful agricultural community. This gift is a reflection of that community. It will have a huge impact on our ability to give out grants in the area. It will double the amount of funds available this coming year.”
The New Richland Area Foundation Fund, which is part of the Waseca Area Foundation, started in 2008 with an anonymous donation of $13,918. It has grown to include the By The Grace of God Fund of $25,000 and another Donor Advised Fund of $10,000, both of which came from anonymous donors. In 2010, the NRAFF handed out $1,500 in grants. This year saw another $500 in grants, with an additional $9,000 from the By The Grace of God Fund going to various area community organizations.
Anyone wishing to donate part of their harvest is asked to get in touch with Schmidt or Karen Buum of the Waseca Area Foundation.
“There are two ways to donate grain,” said Buum. “You can sell it or set up an account for the donation at your local elevator. It’s probably best to set up a donation account. It’s a wonderful gift to your local charitable organization.”
Donating grain is just one of the many ways an individual or family can help contribute to the NRAFF. Trust funds, life insurance proceeds, gifts-in-kind, or memorials are just a few of the different avenues one can pursue to assist in the growth of the fund and its ability to help out the community.
“Thanks to this generous donation, we will be handing out around $2,500 in grants this year,” said Schmidt. “Grant recipients will be announced at the annual Farm and City Days Breakfast.”
Anyone having questions about donations or the New Richland Area Foundation Fund is urged to contact Schmidt at (507) 465-3340 or Buum at (507) 835-5990.
