CARE books offered

The Coordinating Area Resources Effectively collaborative in Crow Wing County finished the 2001 CARE Service Directory.

This year's updated book again has tabs for the 30 sections and is enclosed in a white, three-ring binder funded in part by Crow Wing Power Community Trust.

Members will find many new entries, as well as updates on those from previous years. CARE has increased participation from Crosby, Ironton, Deerwood, Emily, Crosslake and Pequot Lakes areas as it tries to include services in all parts of the county.

Included in membership this year is updating and entry online at the lakesarea.net Community Web sites hosted by The Dispatch. Free interactive sites have been provided by The Dispatch.

Web site design and help is being provided by CARE through Central Lakes College's work study program to employ intern, Jason Steinke, who can help members enhance and update their sites several times during the year.

Free Web site user training is also available at monthly sessions at The Dispatch.

To register call DeAnn Barry at 855-5831.

The purpose of CARE is to enhance the quality of life in this area through the identification and promotion of human resources.

Interagency cooperation strengthens the effectiveness of area agencies and services. Help with funding this year's directory and Web site development came from Blandin Community Investment Partnership, the Initiative Foundation, The Brainerd Daily Dispatch and community members.

Membership is open to organizations or individuals in the community who support the CARE philosophy and pay the annual dues of $50. Additional directories are available to members for $25 each.

Directories are available at the County Extension Office in the Crow Wing County Courthouse at 326 Laurel St. in Brainerd.

The membership application can be printed from the lakesarea.net Community Web site listing under CARE. Applications are also available at the courthouse or by calling Julie Despot at 824-1065.