Initiative Foundation Staff
Matt Varilek | President | | (320) 631-2005
"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."
Kristin Ackley
Community Philanthropy Manager
(320) 631-2062
Mike Burton
External Relations Officer
(320) 631-2059
Chris Fastner
Senior Program Manager for Nonprofit Development
(320) 631-2019
Brenda Gugglberger
Philanthropy Specialist
(320) 631-2061
Barb Larson
Accounting Assistant
(320) 631-2017
Bob McClintick
Marketing & Communications Manager
(320) 631-2008
Carl Newbanks
Grants & Development Specialist
(320) 631-2042
Kerie Thoma
Program Assistant
(320) 631-2054
Amanda Whittemore
VISTA & Nonprofit Development Program Manager
(320) 631-2009
Katie Bjorge
Community Philanthropy Manager
(320) 631-2048
Lynn Bushinger
Chief Financial & Operations Officer, Treasurer
(320) 631-2041
LaRae Foehrenbacher
Fund Development Associate
(320) 631-2007
Don Hickman
Vice President for Community
& Workforce Development
(320) 631-2043
Laura Larson
Program Associate for Economic
& Business Development
(320) 631-2064
Michele Miller
Controller
(320) 631-2050
Allison Norgren
Marketing & Communications Associate
(320) 631-2001
Carrie Tripp
Vice President for External Relations
(320) 631-2015
Daniel Bullert
Business Finance Manager
(320) 631-2013
Barb Downs
Nonprofit Development Specialist
(320) 631-2018
Yadira Frey
Office & Facilities Coordinator
(320) 631-2020
Abdirizak Jama
Program Specialist for Enterprise Academy
(320)631-2058
MaryAnn Lindell
Executive Administrator
(320) 631-2004
Braden Moore
Accounting Manager
(320) 631-2049
Kimberly Slipy
Information Systems Administrator
(320) 631-2014
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.
