What used to be an open field in Clarkfield is now an ice rink thanks to $1,000 from a Clarkfield Area Community Foundation grant. Transforming the former Clarkfield archery range into a place to skate opens up opportunities for recreation during winter months when it can be harder to find something fun to do outdoors.
Local public works director Troy Bruflat saw the potential for the space and encouraged the City of Clarkfield to apply for a grant. With the advantage of already owning the land, the city was able to put the project together quickly. Funding helped pay for lumber to construct sides around the rink, as well as a liner. Last winter was its inaugural season, and it’s back up and running for a second year.
“I know the kids like it a lot,” said Clarkfield City Administrator Jonathan Pierce. “Big thanks to Troy and our dedicated public works team for making it happen.”
Since inception, the Clarkfield Area Community Foundation (CACF) has granted nearly $165,000 to support local organizations and community projects, including the library, garden club, fire and ambulance departments, city athletic fields, the town festival (Cardinal Days) and more.
“Having a local community foundation means Clarkfield is able to get little things that aren’t necessarily super expensive, but nobody really has the money for,” Jonathan said.
Sue Fritz has been a local foundation advisory board member since 2009 and serves as the CACF secretary. She felt called to serve on the board to give back to the community that welcomed her decades ago; now, she continues to volunteer because she recognizes the importance the foundation plays in facilitating projects that meet the emerging needs and opportunities of the community.
“We are a small town — 852 in the 2020 census — so CACF wants to support Clarkfield as much as it can. CACF is also working with the city to repair and upgrade the outdoor swimming pool. We have gotten some quotes as to the cost and this will be a longer project, 2 to 3 years. We value the youth and want them to have places to enjoy all year round. CACF wants Clarkfield to grow and thrive as a fun and safe place to have a family,” Sue said.
Our network of 31 community foundations supports passionate people with the resources to make positive change. A team of local advisory board members guides each community foundation by fundraising, recommending grants, telling stories of good work happening locally and promoting their town.
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Support your local community foundation or another fund that benefits a cause you care about close to home. See a full list of our partner funds in southwest Minnesota.
