Additional TFFF investment expands long‑term impact across the region

Through its role as one of three supporting organizations, MAF will continue partnering with the Taylor Family Farms Foundation to expand the reach and long‑term impact of this philanthropic commitment.

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MAF donor match drives Camp Patterson upgrades

Mankato Free Press (December 2025) — MADISON LAKE — Margie and Phil Slingsby of Mankato both have strong personal reasons for establishing a $100,000 pledge match to go toward major renovations at Kiwanis Camp Patterson on Lake Washington. For Margie, it’s her own memories of what attending Bible camp as

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National Estate Planning Week: Insight from local experts

As part of National Estate Planning Awareness Week, the Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) hosted Legacy by Design: Philanthropy in Estate Planning, a special event for financial advisors, estate planners, donors, and professionals who help clients shape their legacy.

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Local generosity sustains a cultural celebration

For prominent Mankato artist and community organizer Justin Ek, the lesson learned may be a simple one: Just ask.

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The Joy of Giving

Welcome to the eighth installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. Since the giving season is upon us, we caught up with local philanthropist, Heidi Boyum, about the joy of giving.

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The Importance of Estate Planning

Welcome to the seventh installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. This month we hear from Erin E. Kragh, attorney at Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. about the importance of estate planning.

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Food Insecurity in Our Community

Welcome to the sixth installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. This month we hear from Sheri Sander-Silva, FOCP Executive Director, about food insecurity in our community. She shares about the prevalence of this issue and the work her team does to eradicate it.

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Mid-year Tax Reviews

Welcome to the fifth installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. This month we hear from tax professional, Tara Torseth, on why “tax time” is more than a once-a-year thing. She shares with us the importance of mid-year tax reviews and how to prepare for one.

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MAF and the Arts

Welcome to the fourth installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. This month we hear from an expert within a sector that MAF supports. Stacey Straka shares with us the importance of the arts community and how philanthropy helps it thrive.

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Why Accreditation Matters

Welcome to the third installment of the Everyday Philanthropist. This month we celebrate an incredible milestone as the foundation received accreditation by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. Jennifer Pfeffer, MAF Board Member, shares what this means to the foundation and the people we serve.

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