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 Assistant
(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
LaRae Foehrenbacher
Fund Development Associate
(320) 631-2007
Brenda Gugglberger
Philanthropy Specialist
(320) 631-2061
Don Hickman
Vice President for Community
& Workforce Development
(320) 631-2043
Barb Larson
Accounting Assistant
(320) 631-2017
Laura Larson
Program Associate for Entrepreneurship
(320) 631-2064
MaryAnn Lindell
Executive Administrator
(320) 631-2004
Bob McClintick
Marketing & Communications Director
(320) 631-2008
Michele Miller
Controller
(320) 631-2050
Carl Newbanks
Grants & Development Manager
(320) 631-2042
Allison Norgren
Marketing & Communications Associate
(320) 631-2001
Kimberly Slipy
Information Systems Administrator
(320) 631-2014
Zach Tabatt
Nonprofit Development Specialist
(320) 631-2015
Kerie Thoma
Program Associate
(320) 631-2054
Matt Varilek
President
(320) 631-2005
Carie Verley
Finance Assistant
(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.