New Community Responsive Funds available

West Central Initiative has been selected by the Otto Bremer Trust as a philanthropic intermediary partner to administer and distribute funds through its new Community Responsive Fund. Under the new partnership, West Central Initiative will work closely with Otto Bremer Trust to administer $350,000 in funds for grants up to $75,000 to support local organizations that directly respond to immediate challenges and opportunities in the community. 

West Central Initiative will serve as a local expert by providing guidance on and administering grants directly to organizations within west central Minnesota that are providing effective services and programs. 

“The Otto Bremer Trust is proud to partner with West Central Initiative,” said Frank Miley, co-CEO and trustee, Otto Bremer Trust. “The Trust’s mission has always been to provide funding to organizations and programs that effectively address challenges and opportunities in the local community. And what better way to have a deeper understanding of where those challenges are than to work with an organization like West Central Initiative, which is fully integrated into the community and regions we serve. We look forward to working closely together to increase our impact.” 

Local nonprofits, organizations, and groups may apply for funding from the Otto Bremer Trust’s Community Responsive Fund through West Central Initiative. Qualified applicants focus on community asset building, supporting basic needs, health and well-being, restorative and emergency services, and/or bringing stability to individuals and families facing disruptive forces in life. 

“We’re honored to have been chosen as a partner with the Otto Bremer Trust on its Community Responsive Fund,” said West Central Initiative’s Director of Development Rebecca Lynn Petersen. “There are so many deserving nonprofit organizations in our area that are doing important work, and these funds will make an impact on our entire community.”  

The grant application opens March 18 for local nonprofit organizations and can be found at wcif.org/grantseekers.