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   The Remer area has long been shaped by strong community ties, a deep connection to place, and a shared commitment to looking out for one another. Now, a new opportunity is inviting residents, families, and supporters to invest in that legacy in a meaningful and lasting way.

   The Remer Area Community Fund has been given a $50,000 matching opportunity that will help grow a permanent source of funding dedicated to the community. Through this opportunity, every gift to the Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar—doubling its impact and strengthening its ability to support local needs for generations.

   This matching opportunity is made possible thanks to the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation (GRACF), through a grant from the Blandin Foundation. Contributions made now through December 31, 2027, will count toward unlocking the full $50,000 match, with all funds invested to provide ongoing support for the Remer area.

   The Remer Area Community Fund was established to serve Remer and the surrounding communities by supporting local nonprofits, community initiatives, and emerging priorities identified by those who live and work in the area. As a permanently endowed fund, contributions are invested for long-term growth, with annual earnings distributed as grants while the principal remains intact—creating a reliable, lasting resource for the community.

   “This is an opportunity to turn community pride into something permanent,” said Kaara Nilsson, Advisory Committee Co-Chair. “Every gift made today helps ensure that future generations will have resources to meet challenges, support local organizations, and continue building a vibrant Remer area.”

   What makes the Fund unique is its local leadership. A volunteer advisory committee made up of community members helps guide grantmaking and ensures that funding reflects the needs, values, and opportunities of the area. Remer Area Community Fund Advisory Committee Members include Kayla Fenning, Devin Mulligan, Kristian Myers, Kaara Nilsson, Jessica Pellinen, Kim Schultz, and Bob Stoeckel.

   This effort comes at an important time for communities across northern Minnesota. As significant wealth is expected to transfer between generations in the coming decades, community funds like Remer’s offer a way to keep charitable dollars rooted locally—supporting the places people care about most.

   Community members, seasonal residents, and friends of the Remer area are all encouraged to take part. Gifts of any size will be matched, creating an opportunity to double contributions while building a resource that will continue to give back year after year.

   To learn more about or donate to the Remer Area Community Fund, visit gracf.org and click on donate now, or contact the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation at 218.999.9100. You can also reach out to any of the committee members noted above.

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