Blog

R.D. Offutt Farm team members are committed to the communities they live and work in. This dedication is exemplified through participation in the Offutt Family Foundation's Community Builder grant program. Each year, RDO team members have the opportunity to nominate charities that make a significant impact in their local communities. These nominations highlight the various causes that RDO team members are passionate about, ranging from education and healthcare to community development.

This year, the Community Builder grant program awarded a total of $314,200 to 54 recipients across RDO's company footprint. These grants support a wide array of initiatives designed to enhance the quality of life in various communities. From supporting veterans and fire departments to promoting mental health awareness and improving local community centers, the grants are making a tangible difference.

Eight RDO Farms team members nominated charities in our communities this year. Read on to learn more about these charities and the team members who stand behind them.

Armory Arts & Events Center – Debra Bannerman: The Armory Arts & Events Center in Park Rapids, Minnesota, is dedicated to enriching the lives of all residents and enhancing the community. Debra Bannerman, an RDO team member who has been involved with the Armory for nine years, shares, "Being involved with the Armory makes me feel connected to our community. It's a place where history comes alive, and I am honored to be part of its story. The Armory truly is my home away from home." The grant funds will be used to install new lighting and sound systems for upcoming events and upgrade the kitchen for catering and other activities.

Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Elementary School – Elizabeth Strom: Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa (BBE) is an Elementary school in Brooten, Minnesota, that is committed to providing a supportive learning environment and engaging every student every day in any way. BBE Elementary received a grant to install two sets of swings on their playground. These swings will be available for elementary students during recess and for the community to use on nights and weekends, promoting outdoor play and physical activity. Elizabeth Strom, an RDO team member, says that her children are excited about the new playground equipment which will provide more opportunities for outdoor play.

Fishing With Vets – Diane Wachlin: Fishing with Vets is a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving veterans, both active and retired, the chance to fish across the Midwest. They pair veterans with expert guides to create lasting memories and friendships. Diane Wachlin, an RDO team member, nominated Fishing with Vets for this grant. The funds will be used for lodging and meals on the fishing trips along with anything needed, including life vests, fishing poles, tackle, bait, boats and ice houses, to ensure an unforgettable fishing experience.

Keogh 501 Memorial – Natasha Gentele: Ryan Keogh was a dedicated fireman and EMT in Atkinson, Nebraska, serving in various leadership roles, including Fire Chief. After his tragic death on May 16, 2022, his family established the Keogh 501 Memorial to support Ryan's vision of inspiring and training future first responders. "Our goal is to inspire young men and women to give back to small-town fire and rescue departments. We hope our memorial program will touch lives in our communities and beyond," said Jacqueline Keogh, President of the 501 Memorial Fund. RDO team member Natasha Gentele has seen how the program benefits youth involvement in the community. The grant will go toward funding EMT courses, the Atkinson Fire Department's Junior Cadet program, and providing gear, radios and tuition for fire school and EMT licensing.

Liqr Pigz MC – Wes Sanford: Liqr Pigz MC is a community-focused motorcycle club known for its community fundraising, including years of support for the Head Start program and 10 years for the Riding for Dreams program. RDO team member Wes Sanford shared that their major fundraiser, the Annual Ribfest in Sandager Park, Lisbon, helps raise money for various community projects. Liqr Pigz plans to use grant money to purchase 12 new plastic-coated steel picnic tables for Ribfest and other events.

Park Rapids Fire Department – Patrick Focken: The Park Rapids Volunteer Fire Department serves and protects the community through fire safety education, extensive training in firefighting techniques and community service projects. RDO team member Patrick Focken said, "The Park Rapids Fire Department is dedicated to fire prevention and community safety, engaging in educational programs and events to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe and respond in emergencies. I'm proud to be involved in the important work our fire department is doing." The grant will be used for community outreach and fire prevention education, further supporting the department’s mission to keep the community safe.

So Much More – Jonathan Robbins: So Much More is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising mental health awareness. Their mission is to encourage individuals facing hardship by reminding them that there is so much more to life. RDO team member Jonathan Robbins shared that the organization hosts events to connect community members and share stories of overcoming adversity. The donation will fund multiple speaking engagements by renowned rodeo rider Amberley Snyder at regional schools.

The Farm Friends Barn – Daran Solbreken: Farm Friends Barn in Becker, Minnesota, educates children about agriculture through hands-on activities like farm chores and selling products at a mock farmers market. The project teaches kids about the food system, local agriculture and healthy eating while addressing environmental concerns. The grant will enable Farm Friends Barn to create a large-scale soil display area, providing a lasting educational resource for the community. This display will help youth understand the basics of agriculture, laying the groundwork for learning more complex concepts. Daran Solbreken, Becker Farm Manager, nominated The Farm Friends Barn for the grant. “Educating the public about agriculture is very important, especially teaching young generations where their food comes from,” Solbreken said.