MN CHILL Foundation was proud to help sponsor Foundation Elevation’s inaugural Community Impact Award, recognizing individuals who make a lasting difference in their communities. The first-ever recipient, Roger Backstrom, is a shining example of leadership through service. As the longtime owner of Brooklyn Park’s Godfather’s Pizza, Roger has been a dedicated supporter of youth, mentorship programs, and local initiatives that bring people together.

In case you missed it, we kicked off the month with a monumental moment for the youth of Brooklyn Park, made possible by the incredible generosity of The Thielen Foundation. With a transformative $100K donation, they’ve partnered with the Minnesota CHILL Foundation to create safe, empowering spaces where children can not only grow and learn but also embrace life-changing opportunities.

Attending this year’s Breakfast with the Mayors at the University of St. Thomas was an inspiring experience! Hearing from both Mayor Frey and Mayor Carter, with Tom Hauser as the insightful moderator, set the stage for meaningful discussions on community progress and collaboration.

Last week, our co-founder Cindy Hill had the privilege of attending the sold-out NAACP MLK Luncheon in North Minneapolis—a truly unforgettable celebration of legacy, unity, and progress.

Big things are happening in Brooklyn Park, and the youth are about to receive a game-changing boost! On January 6th, 2025, a major announcement was made at the Brooklyn Park City Council meeting, marking an exciting milestone for the Zanewood Teen Center project.

Former Minnesota Vikings player Adam Thielen has given a financial boost to the Zanewood Teen Center project. Late last month, the Thielen Foundation announced a $100,000 donation to help fund Brooklyn Park’s new and improved youth complex.