KEYC (November 2026) — From food rescue efforts and nonprofit support to community traditions like Kiwanis Holiday Lights, the Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) helps turn generosity into lasting impact. In this KEYC In the Spotlight interview, MAF shares how donors, nonprofits, and community partners work together to strengthen our region.
MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – From rescuing food for regional food shelves to adding a giant snow globe at Kiwanis Holiday Lights, the Mankato Area Foundation is working behind the scenes to bring community ideas to life.
Maureen Gustafson, Donor Relations and Programs Director for MAF, joined Lisa Kaye on In the Spotlight to discuss the foundation’s work with donors, nonprofits and community partners. “Whenever someone says somebody should do that, we end up being the somebody,” Gustafson said.
Bringing holiday magic to Mankato
Gustafson said the foundation was an early supporter of Kiwanis Holiday Lights, helping the event secure its first grant. Since then, donors have helped fund additions, including a Christmas train and the 75-foot Christmas tree at the center of the display. This year, the foundation and its donors are helping fund a giant snow globe where families can take photos, Gustafson said.
The Christmas train has a community story of its own. Gustafson said its engine was damaged during shipping, and Minnesota State University, Mankato’s engineering department helped put it back together. The train seats 30 people and includes a wheelchair-accessible car.
Rescuing food and reducing waste
The Foundation also supports efforts to get food to people who need it. Gustafson said grants through MAF helps support a regional food rescue coordinator who connects available food with food shelves across the area.
In one effort, a shipment of nectarines was distributed to food shelves in communities including New Ulm, Waseca, St. James and St. Peter.
A donor also helped ECHO Food Shelf purchase a refrigerator and freezer. Gustafson said the foundation is working with the food shelf on additional refrigerated storage.
Supporting cancer patients and nonprofits
MAF is also home to the Jonathan Zierdt Cancer Fund, which provides support to people going through cancer treatment. Gustafson said care boxes include a blanket, cookbook, journal and gift card to help with expenses such as transportation or prescriptions. Volunteers help assemble the boxes.
Beyond individual projects, the foundation offers nonprofit education on topics such as fundraising and board governance. It also helps connect donors with local organizations.
Gustafson said individuals, families and businesses can establish funds with the foundation, and there is no minimum amount required to start one.