Leverage New Money

The Foundation provides support and funds to leverage resources from outside the Foundation service area. As the fiscal sponsor for large awards from other foundations or government agencies, the Foundation helps bring new monies into our community.

Mesabi Fit Coalition (2022)

When the Mesabi YMCA announced its closing July of 2022, a group of community volunteers came to together to secure funds to develop a new regional wellness center located at 8367 Unity Drive in Mountain Iron. With support by the Virginia Community Foundation as a fiscal sponsor, the Mesabi Fit Coalition’s goal is to bring new recreational, health and wellness opportunities to our local communities.

Main Street Economic Revitalization Program (MSERP) (2021)

In 2019 the City of Virginia and the Virginia Economic Development Authority (VEDA) created the Downtown Commercial Rehabilitation Program to provide financial assistance to eligible downtown building owners for the renovation, rehabilitation and expansion of commercial properties located in the downtown corridor. By collaborating with the City of Virginia, the Foundation was able to secure a Minnesota Department of Employment and Education Development (DEED) MMSERP Grant, realizing over $1.7 million for three direct projects of the Downtown Commercial Rehabilitation Program.

Olcott Park Fountain Renovation Project (2015 – 2019)

The $1 million Olcott Park Fountain Renovation Project was a regional community effort to restore the historical structure that had been a significant part of Iron Range history and culture since 1937. The project, led by community volunteers had a broad public appeal. The Foundation served as the fiscal sponsor, receiving donations and disbursing them as needed.