Nominations sought for outstanding leaders

Nominations are being sought for the third annual Outstanding Community Initiative, recognizing philanthropic excellence in central Minnesota.

The Little Falls-based Initiative Foundation is looking to honor the outstanding accomplishments in seven categories. Those accomplishments will highlight an Oct. 25 event at Madden's Resort near Brainerd.

Award winners receive a commemorative video tribute, a sculpted metal statuette by artist Jeff Kreitz and a $1,000 grant for their favorite charity, courtesy of award sponsors.

Categories, sponsors and descriptions are:

* Outstanding Community, sponsored by Minnesota Power, recognizes overwhelming success achieved by a community that has completed the Healthy Communities Partnership leadership training program, developed an integrated community plan and taken the initiative in the past year to achieve the goals set forth in that plan. Nominees should have broad-based team representation and true citizen participation, demonstrate a locally shared vision and a commitment to utilize gifts and assets of all citizens.

* Outstanding Enterprise, sponsored by Bremer Bank, honors a central Minnesota business that has emphasized community and economic development in its corporate philosophy with exceptional progress made in the past year. Nominees must have received financing from the Initiative Foundation.

* Outstanding Environmental Initiative, sponsored by East Central Energy, recognizes Initiative Foundation-supported nonprofit organization or association that has implemented uncommon measures to foster environmental protection, community education and/or sustainable management of natural resources. Special consideration will be given to nominees that formed unique partnerships and/or sparked community support.

* Outstanding Nonprofit Organization, sponsored by Schlenner Wenner & Co., honors an Initiative Foundation partner that made a powerful difference in the region in the past year. Nominees must be innovative and focus on social change in a collaborative way with community participation. Outstanding, measurable results from set beginning goals must be achieved. Nominees must be a designated 501(c)(3) and have received an Initiative grant award in the past.

* Outstanding Philanthropist, sponsored by Hall & Byers PA, honors the philanthropic passion of an Initiative Foundation donor.

* Outstanding Volunteer, sponsored by Sprint PCS, recognizes an individual who has selflessly given their time to ensure the success of an Initiative Foundation-funded project. Nominees should have championed action on emerging needs or opportunities and have led volunteer efforts promoting cooperation and collaboration.

* Outstanding Youth Initiative, sponsored by Lakes Printing, recognizes a central Minnesota youth, age 18 or younger, who demonstrated an exceptional level of volunteerism, leadership and community service beyond his or her years. The award winner must have engaged in unique, innovative and significant service endeavors and have inspired other youth to follow his or her example of integrity and generosity. Nominees must have helped to ensure the success of an Initiative Foundation-funded project or organization.

Nominators are asked to submit a one to three-page letter addressing specific questions and include contact information. A modest number of supplementary materials may be included with the letter.

Nominations may be mailed to the Initiative Foundation Awards, 405 First St. S.E., Little Falls, MN 56345. Deadline is July 19. Nominations also may be completed online at www.ifound.org/nominate.

Award winners and nominators will be notified no later than Aug. 5.

For more information, contact Matt Kilian at 877-632-9255 or e-mail info@ifound.org.