Picture a city where streets bloom with baskets of flowers, trees grow to shade the sidewalks and residents take pride in their surroundings. This is the city of Dawson, thanks in part to Dawson Community Foundation grants dedicated to city beautification efforts.
“Nestled along the Lac qui Parle River, Dawson boasts nature’s beauty throughout our community. With the walking bridge over the river, the rock rapids, and colorful boulevard, Dawson is known for its amazing flowers lining our Main Street,” said Dawson City Manager Jill Kemen.
The city and Dawson’s chamber share in the costs of purchasing flower baskets to bring color and beauty to the community. Last year, the Dawson Community Foundation granted $1,000 toward updating the flower baskets, as well as $5,000 for planting trees following street improvements. Planted by local small business Heather Nursery & Floral, the flower baskets are hung by Dawson’s road and bridge crew, who care for the plants all summer alongside part-time park staff.
To complement the hanging baskets, the city also engages Heather Nursery to plant boulevard beds and other beds around the community. With the addition of perennials to the mix, Dawson can have color and beauty throughout the growing season.
“Our community, along with its beautiful flowers, has completed almost every street in town with new paving. While this was a needed project, it was met with some disappointment that our trees would be removed. To help alleviate the disappointment to many residents, the city drafted the grant to receive funding for replacement trees, if residents chose to participate in the program,” Jill said.
Up to two trees per household could be reimbursed. Residents were able to pick the trees of their own choosing and now have the opportunity to provide what the tree needs to watch it grow for future generations.
“Community foundation grants allow Dawson the opportunity to add to nature’s beauty Dawson already benefits from, without spending the tax dollars to do so. It’s a win-win for the community and residents,” Jill said.
“Brightening our streets with flowers and trees strengthens community spirit, invites connection, and reminds us that small towns can bloom in big ways,” added Dawson Community Foundation Board Chair Josh Falness.
Josh grew up in Dawson and is now raising a family there with his wife, Karin. Josh joined the foundation board in 2013 because he loves the community and wants to see it thrive.
Dawson was one of four pilot communities in our local community foundation program, which started in 2019 . Today, 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.
The Dawson Community Foundation supports local organizations and students through annual spring grants and a student essay contest. Funding has contributed to community projects such as softball field improvements, performing arts, and beautification efforts. Since its start, the foundation has awarded more than $376,000 in grants fostering growth, education, and community pride in Dawson.
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