Local Organizations
4-H
4-H is an organization for youth in grades three through one year past high school, which works to foster life skills in its members, generally focusing on leadership, citizenship, and community service. 4-H is the largest out-of-school youth organization in the United States, with over 7 million youth members. Wright County currently has over 450 4-H members. With over 160 adult leaders and a special 4-H Cloverbud program for youth in grades kindergarten through second grade, 4-H truly is for people of all ages.
Beginning in 1902, 4-H has definitely changed and evolved throughout the years. Wright County has 23 clubs around the county to choose from, which generally hold monthly meetings and give youth the opportunity to meet people around their area. Wright County 4-H also holds various events throughout the year, some of which non 4-H members can participate in for an additional fee. There are overnight camps, day camps, community service projects, bringing projects to the county fair, riding horse at horse clinics, learning various shooting sports, staying with a host family for a week in another state, and much more.
Franklin Friends 4-H Club: Meets the second Thursday of the month at the Delano Heritage Center. Please contact club leaders Carol Reinhart (763) 682-4207 or Emma Hanson (952) 955-3924 for more information.
Mighty Crow 4-H Club: Meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Delano Heritage Center. Club leader is Marie Thomas (952) 297-2563.
Willing Workers 4-H Club: Meets the first Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Delano Community Education building cafeteria. Club leaders are Mark Otto (763) 972-3546 and Colleen Klaers (763) 479-4393.
4-H is for all ages, even adults can volunteer.
If you would like more information about 4-H, or would like a packet sent to you, please contact the Wright County Extension office at (763) 682-7394 or e-mail mnextwright@umn.edu.
Big Woods Garden Club
The Big Woods Garden Club, serving the areas of western Hennepin, eastern Wright, and northern Carver counties, was founded in 2002.
Meetings are generally the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 or 7 p.m., with 11 meetings per year, no December meeting. Meeting dates, times, and locations may change depending on events and opportunities. Meetings consist of guest speakers, garden craft projects, and garden tours.
It currently has approximately 30 members and Sharon Clark is the president. Membership dues are $10 per year, individual; $20 per year, family/business, and are pro-rated for one-half of the year.
The purpose of the organization is to provide a variety of gardening related educational programs; plant, install, and assist in maintaining local community plantings to enhance the beauty of cities, towns, parks, and open spaces; raise awareness and funds for community garden programs and efforts; and provide a social environment where individuals interested in gardening can meet and exchange ideas.
The Big Woods Garden Club recently adopted and currently maintains the River Garden near the Crow River in downtown Delano. The club was also integral in starting the Delano Community Garden in 2009.
Special events or projects include the garden club plant sale in May, Adopt-a-Highway project, Delano Adopt-a-Pot project, annual community planting project, and tours, educational programs, and demonstrations.
For more information, call Sharon Clark at (952) 955-3118.
Bit & Spurs Saddle Club
The Bit & Spurs Saddle Club was founded in Hamel about 35 years ago for members to learn from each other as a group, with their horses. It is very family oriented.
There are about 40 families in the organization, which meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Choo Choo Bar in Loretto.
Special projects include trail rides, expos, and clinics. The club owns its own ring, which is located in Delano. They also sponsor fundraisers.
The club participates in O-MOK-SEE games for kids and adults of all ages. Look for their ad booklet in stores for upcoming show dates and locations.
If anyone is interested in joining, or for more information, call Lorie Gray, at (763) 972-2731.
Crow River Youth Hockey Association
The Crow River Youth Hockey Association was founded in 1990, to provide an excellent youth hockey experience for boys and girls of the Delano and Rockford school districts.
There are about 300 members in the organization, which meets at the Delano Area Sports Arena.
Officers of the organization are John Reynolds, president; Rich Rizzardi, vice president; Amy Keranen, treasurer; and Stacie Nelson, secretary.
For more information, visit the web site, www.crtigers.com, or call Doug Lawman at (763) 479-1206 or Stacie Nelson at (763) 479-1680.
Delano American Legion
The Delano American Legion was founded in 1919. There are about 340 members. Other organizations under the American Legion family are the Delano American Legion Auxiliary, president Brandi Christensen; the Delano Sons of the American Legion (SAL), president Brian Blowers; and American Legion Riders, president Rudy Van Hermert.
Special events and projects include the Delano Fourth of July celebration, Memorial Day, Veterans’ Day, veterans’ funerals, and a variety of fundraisers, with the funds going back into the community. The SAL has an omelette breakfast the second Sunday of the month.
This is a very active post, not only in the community, but also in the district. The organization had two past district commanders and three district presidents.
If anyone wants to join any of the three groups, they may call the Delano American Legion at (763) 972-2969.
If you meet a vet, thank him or her.
Delano Area Chamber of Commerce
The Delano Area Chamber of Commerce is a member organization formed to support the business community. It consists of five initiatives: a business development committee, economic development committee, membership committee, government affairs committee, and ambassador committee.
Regular general membership meetings are the third Thursday of each month at noon. If you’d like, come at 11:45 a.m. for networking prior to the meeting. For the location of the next meeting and to RSVP, contact Jean Knopp, executive director, at (763) 972-6756, or info@delanochamber.com. The Delano Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 265 River St. N, Suite 109, Delano, MN 55328. Check out the chamber’s web site: www.delanochamber.com.
The 2010 board of directors members are: president Joe Tipka, Coborn’s; vice president Adam Kleve, Flower Farm by Otten Brothers; secretary Ryan Gueningsman, Delano Herald Journal; treasurer Daryl MacLean, MacLean Law office; Amy Stewart, Maratona Communication, Jeanne Matter, Matter Reuter CPA’s; Wendy Gilmer, State Bank of Delano; Will Haack, Sparrow Properties; Kristin Nelson, Body Soul Wellness Workshop, LLC.
Delano Area Council for Arts and Culture
The Delano Area Council for Arts and Culture came together in the spring of 2009, to “Empower people to think, work, and live creatively through art and cultural experiences.”
Its mission statement was truly evident Dec. 5, 2009, with the “Old-Fashioned Christmas in Historic Downtown Delano.” With the help of a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts board and numerous local groups, five dynamic women put on an event that brought 800-1,000 people to downtown Delano. The second annual event will be Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010.
The council communicates, connects, and possibly collaborates with various local groups in bringing the arts to local residents. The council hopes to support the culture of Delano and enhance and support the local arts.
Watch for new events, projects and collaborations from this group. Anyone interested in joining the council should contact: Melinda Miller at (763) 972-4482, Deb DeBeer at (763) 675-3673, or Jan Johnson at (763) 972-2494.
Delano Area Educational Foundation
The Delano Area Educational Foundation (DAEF) is a non-profit organization. Their mission is to enrich the learning experiences of all students in District 879 by helping them achieve academic excellence.
In April 2009, the Foundation awarded $26,050 in grant money to the Delano schools. Its endowment now exceeds $35,000.
The Board of the Foundation extends an open invitation to parents and community members to get involved with this group. They are looking for ideas, volunteers, enthusiasm, and donations. Enthusiastic new members are always welcome.
Meetings are in the District 879 conference room on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. Anyone interested in joining or who has questions regarding the organization, call Dan Stolfa at (952) 404-5905.
Members of DAEF include: president Dan Stolfa; vice president Chad Skartvedt; treasurer Brooks Grossinger; secretary Lisa Seguin; board members Mary Ann Bernat, Joy Bodin, Dr. John Sweet, Rick Schaffer, Rodger Schaefbauer, Amy Ewing, Lee Bunker.
Delano Area Foundation
The Delano Area Foundation was founded in 1997 to start an endowment for the Delano area. It offers an excellent opportunity for any person to make lasting contributions to the Delano area. Donations are tax deductible.
The foundation currently has approximately 20 members, and meets three to four times a year. Lloyd Griep is the president.
For more information or if interested in joining as a board member, call Lloyd Griep at (763) 972-6848.
Delano Area Historical Society / Delano Heritage Preservation Commission
Established in 1999, to preserve the area’s rich history and educate the public, the Delano/Franklin Township Area Historical Society currently has 30 members which meet the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Delano Heritage Center (old library). In 2005, the Historical Society partnered with the City of Delano to create the Delano Heritage Preservation Commission. Along with the city, the two groups work together to preserve the area’s rich heritage.
Special projects include the Delano recipe book, using treasured recipes from the Delano area. Submit your family’s /grandma’s recipes for our book. The proceeds from the book will go to renovate the Delano Heritage Center, located in a historical landmark building, the original city hall/fire station, library. The center is open by appointment at 234 2nd Street, Delano, MN 55328.
Individuals may donate items to the museum and/or use the resources to learn about the history in the Delano area, or discover and work on their own family history.
For more information, call Jon Steinmetz, president, at (763) 257-2963.
Delano Artists Guild
The Delano Artists Guild was founded in January 2002.
The purpose of the organization is the promotion of visual arts in the community, and to create a place for artists to work, teach, and sell their art.
There are 15 members in the organization, which meets the first Tuesday of the month.
Special projects or events include the October Art Show and the March photography exhibits at the Delano Public Library, as well as ongoing participation in local art shows and classes.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has more questions, call Pat Jakobsen at (763) 242-4474.
Delano Boy Scout Troop 273
Delano Boy Scout Troop 273 was founded in the 1940s.
The purpose of the organization is to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character.
There are 30 members in the organization, which meets Tuesday in the community room above the heritage center.
Special projects or events include highway cleanups, the Fourth of July pop stand, wreath sales, and lots of camping.
The officers in the organization are Geoff Gruba, scout master; Sue Hurst, committee chair; Brenda Dalbec, advancement chair; Leilani Westrom, fundraising chairperson; Bill and Sherri Field, activities chairpersons; and Kurt Eickschen, treasurer.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has more questions, call Geoff Gruba at (763) 972-2553 or e-mail geoff@gruba.us.
Delano Cub Scout Troop 273
Delano Cub Scout Troop 273 was founded in 1930. Cub Scouts is for children in first through fifth grade.
The purpose of the organization is to provide an educational program for boys to build their quality of character, to train in the responsibilities of participating as a citizen, and to develop personal fitness. Personal fitness includes physical, mental, and emotional fitness.
There are approximately 51 Scouts and 10 den leaders in the organization, which meets Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at the Delano United Methodist Church.
Special projects or events include Scouting for Food, Memorial Day parade, Fourth of July parade, youth camping, Pinewood Derby races, day-camp, Tiger Cub Zoo Day, Blue and Gold Banquet, and Toys for Tots.
Each year in September there is a special sign-up night for youth interested in joining the Scouting program, known as Join Scouting Night, or you can join Scouts anytime throughout the year.
For more information, call Brad Spencer at (763) 479-3525.
Delano Farmers Market
The market began in 2002, and is located on the corner of Highway 12 and County Line Road in the Flippin’ Bills parking lot. It is open May through October, Wednesdays, from 2 to 6 p.m.
The Delano Farmers Market allows local farmers to offer for sale the freshest, locally-grown produce and other products. New items available at the market include homemade BBQ sauce and spices, organic produce, gluten-free products, and fresh kettlecorn popped right on site. You can also find fresh produce, breads, fruits, jams, honey, maple syrup, eggs, beef products, fresh salsa, fresh flowers, and handcrafted items. One booth is available for Delano organizations to raise awareness or money for their organization.
For more information, call Deb Hoen, market manager, at (763) 238-2702.
Delano Fourth of July Committee, Inc.
The purpose of the Delano Fourth of July Committee, Inc. is to organize Minnesota’s oldest and largest Fourth of July celebration.
There are six organizations involved in the committee; the Delano Athletic Club, Delano Lions, Delano Sportsmen’s Club, Delano Jaycees, Delano Chamber of Commerce, and Delano American Legion.
The committee meets once a month, for eight months of the year.
Special projects or events include food and drink at the celebration, baseball tournament, men’s and women’s softball tournament, queen coronation, bands for both young and old under the big top, kiddie parade, kid’s tractor pull, carnival, and huge fireworks.
Delano Helping Hands
Delano Helping Hands food shelf, located in the Delano Community Education Building, 140 Elm Ave., was founded in 1985, and currently has approximately 350 active volunteers.
The food shelf is open for food distribution each Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m., and every third Thursday it is also open from 5 to 7 p.m.
The organization helps approximately 60 families on a monthly basis.
Minnesota March Food Share is a big event for Delano Helping Hands. Half of the food and donations are collected during March. Many churches, organizations, and individuals participate. All donations are kept in the Delano area.
If anyone is interested in helping at the food shelf, call your local church or Jeanie Pilarski at (763) 972-3360 or Sandy Pikus at (763) 972-3723.
Delano Jaycees
The Delano Jaycees was founded in 1981, and currently has approximately 40 alumni and current members which meet the second Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m., locations vary.
The purpose of the organization is to help with community service, and improve members’ leadership abilities and promote personal growth.
The Jaycees stay active in the community by running projects, helping the citizens, and donating money back into the city, parks, and schools.
Special projects or events include the annual sandbox fill in May, local punt, pass, and kick in August, Toys for Love INC in November/December, and the Fourth of July celebration.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has questions regarding the organization, call Shawn Petersen at (612) 483-4886 or visit www.delanojaycees.com.
Delano Lions
Established in 1965 to support community interests and aid sight and hearing-challenged individuals. The Delano Lions Club currently has 30 members. The Lions meet the second Thursday of the month at 7 a.m. at JUKEBOX Restaurant, and the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Edie Mae’s.
Special projects include the Delano Fourth of July Parade, Christmas tree sales, and various fundraisers. The Delano Lions will be hosting its third annual golf tournament. Location and time to be announced. The Lions also provide food for the Relay for Life event and collect used eyeglasses and hearing aids. Call the number below if you have any to donate.
If anyone is interested in joining, or for more information, call President Mike Bauer at (763) 972-0000 or Vice President Tom Schaffer at (763) 972-5897.
Delano Public Schools Partners in Education (PIE)
Delano High School Partners in Education (PIE): Mission: To enhance the educational and extracurricular experience for all Delano High School students. DHS-PIE is open to parents of DHS students as well as staff members, or anyone in the community that would be interested in joining. Meetings: DHS-PIE meets the second Monday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. in the high school conference room. Contacts: President Lona DeSutter (763) 972-6028; Secretary Martha Nesenson or Treasurer Barb Kutz; or visit the school web site at www.delano.k12.mn.us.
Delano Middle School Partners in Education (PIE): Mission: Delano Middle School Partners In Education (DMS- PIE) is a volunteer organization of parents and staff committed to enhancing our students’ education and overall school environment. DMS-PIE helps in fundraising efforts which help finance special events throughout the year which benefit students, school and staff. Meetings: This organization meets the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., for approximately one hour, in the Middle School staff lounge. Your input and support are vital to the organization’s continued success and will be greatly appreciated. Contact: Sarah Farniok at (763) 972-3365 ext 2110 for more information or visit the school web site at www.delano.k12.mn.us.
Delano Elementary School Partners in Education (DES-PIE): Mission: Delano Elementary School Partners in Education is a volunteer organization of parents and staff committed to enhancing our students’ education and overall school environment. DES-PIE organizes fundraising efforts that help finance special events throughout the year to benefit students, school, and staff. Meetings: It meets on the second Tuesday of each month for about one hour during the school year at 7 p.m. in the Elementary School Media Center. Your input and support are vital to the organization’s continued success and will be greatly appreciated. Contacts: presidents Jen Trujillo (763) 972-8103 and Gwen Egly (763) 972-3459; vice presidents Sarah Baker and Michelle Roub; treasurer Brenda Schaffer; secretary Missy Udstrand. Visit the school web site and click on PIE for further information.
Delano Relay for Life
Relay For Life is a community gathering in which everyone can participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at the city park and take turns walking or running around the pathway.
Each team is asked to have a representative on the path at all times during the event because cancer never sleeps.
Volunteers are needed for the event in many areas – folding luminary bags, being on a team, organizing an event, and telephone calls.
For more information, contact Brea Atkinson at (651) 255-8760 or delano.relay@gmail.com.
Delano Senior Center
The Delano Senior Center was founded in 1982, and is located in the Delano City Hall Building at 234 2nd St. N. Seniors, age 55 and older, are invited and encouraged to attend. The center is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seniors are invited to participate in daily planned events, enjoy a meal at noon, or just stop in for coffee and a visit.
The center is operated by the city of Delano. An advisory board of more than 12 members guides the director in planning and decision-making.
The purpose of the organization is to assist senior citizens in all areas to help keep them living independently in their homes and active in their community.
The center sponsors activities, speakers, day tours, congregate dining, Meals on Wheels, wellness programs, music, Continuing Education classes, and a variety of volunteer opportunities. Transportation with a w/c lift-equipped mini-bus is available for day tours, out of area shopping trips and other transportation services as needed. Call Delano Area Transportation at (763) 972-0574 for transportation to Delano Senior Center events. For transportation to locations such as the grocery store, clinic, banks, restaurants, hair salons, food shelf, call River Rider Public Transportation at (763) 263-0101 or 1-800-821-9719. For rides to out of town medical appointments for those Wright County residents age 60 and over, call Wright County Volunteer Transportation at (763) 684-2343.
For more information about the Delano Senior Center, contact the director, Gail Sinkel at (763) 972-0574, or log on to www.delano.mn.us under the “community” tab.
Delano Snowstormers Snowmobile Club
Delano Snowstormers is a non-profit snowmobile club located west of the Twin Cities in Delano. The club was originally started in 1979, incorporated in 1995, and continues to be very active in 2010. There are approximately 30 club members, including all generations of families and individual memberships. Snowstormers are members of Wright County Snowmobile Association, MnUSA, and Delano Area Chamber of Commerce.
Snowstormers has three trail coordinators who organize trail set-up and maintenance each fall along with fellow club members. Two groomer coordinators manage grooming responsibilities, and Snowstormers also has a shelter nestled in the woods along the trail route for enthusiasts to enjoy. The shelter is maintained by club members and appreciated by all with visit. A Wright County Snowmobile Association Groomer is shared between Delano Snowstormers and Rockford Snowmobile Club for trail grooming duties.
Organized trail rides are scheduled and occur as trail conditions allow in and around the Delano and Wright County trails, as well as visits to other Minnesota trail destinations. Snowstormers conducts youth snowmobile training, special club events, a fundraiser, and participates in community events.
Snowstormers take pride in keeping the trail systems maintained, smooth and up-to-date for the safety of everyone. It appreciates and respects landowner’s private properties as they allow us to use their land for snowmobiling. Come to Delano/Wright County and enjoy the trails. Keep safety in mind as you enjoy the snowmobile season. Wright County trail maps are available at local businesses throughout Delano and Wright County.
Club meetings are scheduled monthly on the second Monday, 7:30 p.m. at the Delano American Legion. If you are not a member of a local snowmobile club, you are invited to join. New members are always welcome. Visit www.delanosnowstormers.com. For more information, call (952) 955-2894.
Delano Sportsmen’s Club
The Delano Sportsmen’s Club was founded in 1898, as the Delano Gun Club. In those days, the club was made up of the community elite, and activities consisted mostly of hunting raccoons and training dogs. Trap shooting soon became one of the club’s major activities, as well.
As the years went by, it became evident that conservation of the environment and wildlife was necessary to preserve the community’s heritage and future well-being, so the club gradually became involved in activities promoting this. The club was largely responsible for governmental action prohibiting the unregulated dumping by industries and others into the Crow River.
In 1937, the club changed its name to the Delano Sportsmen’s Club, as a broader membership base was desired. With the building of the new clubhouse in 1974, the new traphouse in 1985, and constant improvement of the range facilities, including the shooting shelter in 1987, the organization has grown to more than 500 members.
Some projects of the club include winter feeding of pheasants, raising pheasant chicks for restocking, annual planting of evergreen tree plots for habitat improvement, a firearm safety course, and a bowhunter safety course.
The club also provides financial support to many organizations including the National Wildlife Federation, Minnesota Conservation Federation, Freshwater Society, TIP, and many others.
The club financed, as well as provided labor for, the new public accesses on Lake Sarah and Dean Lake. Club trapshooters have raised approximately $50,000 for the Variety Heart Club Children’s Hospital at the University of Minnesota, as well as donating $1,000 in 1990, to get the Wright County 4-H shooting sports program going. The club also created the Kelly Aurentz Scholarship Fund as part of the Delano Dollars for Scholars, and contributes $500 to it each year.
For more information or to join, call Joe and Jan Kittok at (763) 972-2989.
Delano/Loretto Girl Scouts
The Delano/Loretto Girl Scouts was founded in 1912. The Girl Scout Council of Greater Minneapolis is part of the preeminent organization for, and leading authority on, girls cultivating their character, confidence, and social conscience while teaching them critical life skills to succeed as adults. The council has over 8,000 committed adult volunteers, and nearly 20,000 girls, and serves all, or portions of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Scott, Sherburne, and Wright counties.
Special projects or events include summer and winter encampments, community service projects, and bronze, silver, and gold awards.
For more information on how to join, volunteer, or donate to the Girl Scouts, call (763) 535-4602 or visit www.girlscoutsrv.org.
Delano/Loretto United Way
For over 50 years, the Delano Loretto Area United Way has been a source of help for people in need. Originally founded as the Delano Community Chest, the United Way is the oldest and farthest reaching charitable organization in the greater Delano and Loretto area. In 2009, funding from United Way reached more than 3,000 people in the local communities.
The Delano Loretto Area United Way is managed by a board of directors comprised of volunteers from the communities, as well as a part-time executive director. United Way conducts an annual fundraising campaign as well as benefits from in-house business, corporate, and school giving programs, civic and fraternal philanthropy.
We live in a time of great need, but are surrounded by a generous community, who can and do make a significant impact in the lives of our neighbors. To join the United Way in giving, either as a board member or a donor, contact Jen Millard at (763) 972-4429 or e-mail delanolorettouw@yahoo.com, or contact Kevin Max at (763) 972-8722. You can also visit www.delanolorettouw.org.
Friends of the Delano Library
The Friends of the Delano Library was founded in 1984, and currently has 35 members. It meets monthly in the Delano Public Library. Call the library at (763) 972-3467 for meeting dates and times. New members are always welcome.
The purpose of the organization is to promote the library’s programs, and provide volunteer and monetary assistance to ongoing programs. The organization helps to encourage community awareness of the library by hosting events and providing media communications.
Special projects or events include the annual spring book sale in April, the March photo exhibit, supporting the summer children’s programs with treats and volunteers, October art exhibit, numerous special programs, and supporting the January adult winter reading program with incentives and prizes.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has more questions, call Mary Ann Bernat at (763) 972-6274 or visit the library and read the Friends of the Library bulletin board.
General Federated Women’s Club of Delano
The General Federated Women’s Club of Delano was founded April 24, 1968, currently has 20 members, and meets the second Monday of the month, September through May.
The purpose of the organization is to provide an opportunity for local women to make a valuable contribution of service to their community, and enjoy their volunteering efforts.
Special projects or events include Concerts in the Park, a Card Marathon, supporting the Anna Marie shelter and promoting the awareness and prevention of domestic violence, which often lead to homelessness. Proceeds from the Snowflake Luncheon and Citizen of the Year Banquet are used as part of the community improvement projects. Currently, it is working with the City of Delano toward improvement of the downtown area now that the bulk of Highway 12 construction is complete, with a fishing pier as one possibility.
Officers in the organization are Jennifer Halverson, president; Pat Sawatzke, first vice president; Judy Vanderlinde, second vice president; Lisa Blodgett, secretary; Marlene Muckenhirn, treasurer and Jeanie Pilarski: historian.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has more questions, contact Jennifer Halverson at (952) 994-1128.
Animal Humane Society
The Animal Humane Society is the leading animal welfare organization in the Upper Midwest dedicated to engaging and serving local and regional communities of people and animals. Through its comprehensive programs and services at its locations in Buffalo, Coon Rapids, Golden Valley, St. Paul, and Woodbury, the Animal Humane Society provides resources that compassionately serve all the stages of an animal’s life.
Animal Humane Society is always in need of foster families, volunteers, and business sponsors.
For more information, call (763) 522-4325 or visit www.animalhumanesociety.org.
Knights of Columbus Immaculate Conception Council 4653
The Knights of Columbus Council 4653 was founded Dec. 8, 1958, and currently has 140 members which meet the second Monday of the month at 128 N. River Street. It is affiliated with the Fraternal Organization of Catholic Gentlemen, associated with Fourth Degree 2649 Christ the King Assembly of Buffalo, and Nicollet Assembly 526 of Minneapolis.
The purpose of the organization is to defend the Catholic faith, protect widows and orphans, and perform acts of faith, hope, and charity.
Special projects or events include the Tootsie Roll Drive for the mentally-challenged, supporting Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, youth baseball, softball, and other youth sports, and local area churches and schools. The Knights of Columbus also sponsor Senior Bingo and the annual Easter Egg Hunt in Delano.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has questions regarding the organization, call Jim Russek at (763) 972-5674.
Toast Masters International
The Toast Masters International Tri-County Chapter was established approximately 30 years ago to instruct its members to become better public speakers.
It currently has 15 members, which meet from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., Friday mornings at the Watertown Community Center. Anyone who is interested may attend.
Special projects include speaking contests. Annual dues are $40. For more information, call K.J. McDonald at (952) 955-1623.
Wright County Historical Society
The Wright County Historical Society was founded in 1942, to collect, preserve, and disseminate the history of Wright County and its relationship to Minnesota.
Special events include children’s days in May for area schools, the children’s school program at the Wright County Fair, and occasional traveling exhibitions.
There are over 300 members in the organization. Officers are Leander Wetter, president; John Norman, vice-president; and Claudia Menzel, secretary. Board meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month and are open to the public.
For more information, visit the web site, www.wrighthistory.org.
Wright County Minnesota Kennel Club
The Wright County Minnesota Kennel Club was founded in 1973, and is dedicated to the preservation of purebred dogs through educational programs, AKC licensed events, and social activities.
There are about 40 members in the organization, which meets the second Thursday of the month at various locations. Anyone who wants to learn more about showing dogs in AKC events, or just have fun, is encouraged to join.
Special projects and events include AKC Rally Obedience and Obedience Trial in March, conformation’s junior showmanship all-breed show in October, and fun matches in obedience, rally, conformation, and agility in the summer months.
Officers in the chapter are Diana McCarty, president; Colleen Heese, vice-president; Vierginia Matanic, treasurer; and Carol Carbonell, correspondence secretary.
If anyone is interested in joining, or has more questions, call Diana McCarty at (763) 682-4699.
Youth as Resources (YAR)
YAR stands for Youth As Resources, a student-led program that aids school-aged students financially with projects that better the community.
The organization meets twice a month Monday nights at 6:30 p.m. at the Delano High School, welcoming anyone to join and sit in on a meeting.
YAR is required to have a board of at least 3/4 students and 1/4 adult members. Students come with project pitches or ideas that they cannot support financially on their own. Based on an extensive outline and description of each step of the project, the organization grants them money to use, based on the score of their application and presentation.
The money is granted by the Initiative Foundation in Little Falls. This year is Delano’s fourth year of the program, and third year of receiving grant money. YAR has been approved in the amount of $7,500, contingent upon proof of a $7,500 cash match contributed from local sources.
As a program, YAR would like to become more recognized throughout the community, however, and not just through the school.
The organization serves as a bridge between those needing financial help, and the businesses they often seek out. It understands how demanding it can be to constantly have to answer to students asking for donations for soccer, baseball, and Girl Scouts, and YAR would like to be the organization that these groups come to instead.
For more information, contact the YAR coordinator, Carley Boll, at (763) 972-3365, ext. 2137 or e-mail at Youth_As_Resources@yahoo.com.
