Initiative Foundation Staff
Matt Varilek | President | | (320) 631-2005
View our Board of Trustee summary statement on diversity, equity and inclusion."For more than 30 years, the Initiative Foundation has empowered local people to build thriving communities across Central Minnesota. The Foundation’s staff—working in conjunction with a diverse array of partners—plays a critical role in the important work of making our region an ideal place where people choose to live, work, give and play."
The Initiative Foundation employs highly skilled and diverse staff members with two things in common: All are passionate about Central Minnesota hometowns, and all believe in the power of local people to achieve a brighter future.
Jessy Beto
Program Specialist
(320) 631-2057
Kate Bjorge
Community Philanthropy Manager
(320) 631-2048
Daniel Bullert
Business Finance Manager
(320) 631-2013
Mike Burton
External Relations Officer
(320) 631-2059
Lynn Bushinger
Chief Financial & Operations Officer, Treasurer
| (320) 631-2041
Abdi Daisane
Enterprise Academy Program Officer
(320) 207-4888
Chris Fastner
Initiators Fellowship Program Manager
(320) 631-2019
Yadira Frey
Office & Facilities Coordinator
(320) 631-2020
Don Hickman
Vice President for Community
& Workforce Development
(320) 631-2043
Barb Larson
Accounting Specialist
(320) 631-2017
Laura Larson
Entrepreneurship Specialist
(320) 631-2064
MaryAnn Lindell
Executive Administrator
(320) 631-2004
Hannah Mayhew
Enterprise Academy Intern
(320) 270-6019
Bob McClintick
Marketing & Communications Director
(320) 631-2008
Michele Miller
Controller
(320) 631-2050
Braden Moore
Accounting Manager
(320) 631-2049
Allison Norgren
Marketing & Communications Specialist
(320) 631-2001
Robin Skinner
Three Rivers Community Foundation Administrative Assistant
(763) 218-1974
Kimberly Slipy
Information Systems Administrator
(320) 631-2014
Zach Tabatt
Nonprofit Development Program Officer
(320) 631-2015
Kerie Thoma
Program Specialist
(320) 631-2054
Matt Varilek
President
(320) 631-2005
Carie Verley
Finance Specialist
(320) 631-2010
Among our many partners are several certified Community Development Financial Institutions, or CDFIs, that help us meet our goals to empower the people of Central Minnesota.