New Ulm Area Foundation Inc

In 1987 Henry Somsen established the New Ulm Area Foundation in memory of his wife, Anne Duncan Somsen. His goal of creating a permanent vehicle that would serve the ever-evolving needs of the New Ulm area has been realized. Since its inception, the New Ulm Area Foundation has granted over $1 million to local nonprofit organizations in the focus areas of the arts, education, economic development, and historic preservation. 

Mr. Somsen's original donation has inspired others who wish to foster enrichment of the quality of life in the New Ulm area. Donations are given directly as an outright donation or as deferred gifts, which may include bequests, life insurance, trusts with charitable provisions, or special purpose gifts in honor of a friend, family member, or loved one.

Mission

We inspire engagement through generosity and collaboration that creates sustainable impact in the New Ulm area.

Vision

To create a flourishing community in which future generations thrive.

Grant Focus and Examples

The earnings from these funds provide grants in the four areas of focus: art, education, historic preservation and community enhancement. The following are a few examples of grants in each of these areas:

Arts

• Support in various ways of State Street Theater 
• Support fine arts programs in public and private schools 
• Summer creativity and multi-cultural camps at The Grand Center for Arts & Culture 

Education

• Support ISD 88’s CTE (Career Technical Education) Center capital campaign
• Leadership skills training and summer programming for ProKinship for Kids 
• “Make It Move” Robotics Program at New Ulm Middle School/ISD 88

Historic Preservation 

• Support exterior repairs, painting and preservation at Wanda Gag House
• Preservation of stained-glass glass windows for NUMAS Haus
• Interpretive panels at the Kiesling House for Brown County Historical Society

Community Enhancement

• Support Heart to Home Furnishings with bed purchases
• Memory Care and Assisted Living Center Expansion at Oak Hills Living Center
• Upgraded Park Equipment & Facilities for Junior Pioneer Park

Governance
The grant recommendations are made by the Grants Committee and approved by the entire Board of Directors twice per year. The Board is made up of volunteer individuals from various areas of interest in the New Ulm area including banking, law, accounting, agriculture, real estate, retail business, medical, telecommunications, manufacturing, and retirees.

For more information about New Ulm Area Foundation, visit our website: http://newulmareafoundation.org/

Or visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewUlmAreaFoundation