June 17, 2024 (Thief River Falls, MN) – Advance Thief River is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $45,000 grant by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation as part of their Welcoming Communities program. This significant investment aims to enhance the inclusion of newcomers and underrepresented community members within Thief River Falls.
The Welcoming Communities program is dedicated to cultivating an environment where all residents, regardless of their background, feel empowered to contribute to and strengthen the social, civic, and economic fabric of the community. By supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity, the program seeks to create a culture where diversity is celebrated and valued.
With this award, Advance Thief River is bringing on Brittany Rolf as project coordinator. “We are so pleased to bring in Brittany as our project coordinator,” said Michelle Landsverk, director of Advance Thief River. “Brittany’s energy, enthusiasm, and experience are a perfect match for this project.”
Advance Thief River plans to use the grant to implement various initiatives designed to achieve several key outcomes, including:
-Retention of International Workforce: By fostering a welcoming atmosphere, Advance Thief River aims to retain a diverse and skilled international workforce, essential for the growth and sustainability of the local economy.
-Increased Cross-Cultural Respect and Appreciation: The initiative will focus on promoting mutual respect and understanding among different cultural groups, enhancing community cohesion and harmony.
-Long-Term Systems Change: Through sustained efforts and strategic partnerships, Advance Thief River aspires to drive systemic changes that ensure long-term inclusivity and equality for all residents.
“We are thrilled and grateful to receive this support from the Northwest Minnesota Foundation,” said Michelle Landsverk, Director of Advance Thief River. “This grant will enable us to implement vital programs that not only welcome but also integrate newcomers into our community, fostering a stronger, inclusive, and economically vibrant Thief River Falls.”
Advance Thief River invites community members, local organizations, and stakeholders to join in these initiatives to create a more inclusive and dynamic community for everyone.
For more information about the Welcoming Communities project, please contact Brittany Rolf, Project Coordinator, by emailing brolf@advancethiefriver.com.
About Advance Thief River
Advance Thief River is a community development organization dedicated to growing the economy of the Thief River Falls area.
About Northwest Minnesota Foundation
The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life in northwest Minnesota by investing in communities and fostering inclusive, equitable opportunities for all residents.
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Brittany Rolf
Welcoming Communities Project Coordinator
The Welcoming Communities project builds on, and complements, the Join Us Thief River program launched by Advance Thief River in January 2023. Key elements of the Join Us Thief River program include community navigators, employer profiles, and the ATR Job Hub.
