Initiative Foundation Staff
Matt Varilek | President | | (320) 631-2005
View our Board of Trustee summary statement on diversity, equity and inclusion."For 35 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."
Doug Adams
Business Finance Officer
(320) 631-2063
Jessy Beto
Program Specialist
(320) 631-2057
Kate Bjorge
Community Philanthropy Manager
(320) 631-2048
Daniel Bullert
Senior Business Finance Manager
(320) 631-2013
Mike Burton
External Relations Officer
(320) 631-2059
Lynn Bushinger
Chief Financial & Operations Officer, Treasurer
| (320) 631-2041
Chris Fastner
Initiators Fellowship Program Manager
(320) 631-2019
Brenda Gugglberger
Fund Development Specialist
(320) 631-2061
Don Hickman
Vice President for Community
& Workforce Development
(320) 631-2043
Laura Larson
Entrepreneurship Program Specialist
(320) 631-2064
MaryAnn Lindell
Director of Administration
(320) 631-2004
Hannah Mayhew
Enterprise Academy Intern
(320) 270-6019
Bob McClintick
Marketing & Communications Director
(320) 631-2008
Michele Miller
Director of Finance
(320) 631-2050
Ismail Mohamed
Enterprise Academy Program Officer
Carl Newbanks
Grants & Development Manager
(320) 631-2042
Allison Norgren
Marketing & Communications Specialist
(320) 631-2001
Melissa Peterson
Office and Facilities Specialist
(320) 631-2020
Donniel Robinson
Entrepreneurship Programs Officer
Robin Skinner
Three Rivers Community Foundation Administrative Assistant
(763) 218-1974
Kimberly Slipy
Information Systems Administrator
(320) 631-2014
Kasey Stevens
Accountant
(320) 631-2049
Zach Tabatt
Nonprofit Development Program Officer
(320) 631-2015
Kerie Thoma
Community Philanthropy Program Specialist
(320) 631-2054
Matt Varilek
President
(320) 631-2005
Carie Verley
Finance Specialist
(320) 631-2010
Brian Voerding
Vice President for Inclusive Entrepreneurship
(320) 631-2006
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.