Business philanthropists support our local non-profits, because they know that healthy, vibrant communities are essential to the long term success of our businesses. “Business philanthropy and community involvement are good things,” said Larry Knutson. Knutson is the President of Concorde Bank of Willmar and Blomkest and has been a long-time friend and supporter of Bethesda and many other organizations in the Willmar area. He is currently a Bethesda board member and Campaign Vice-Chair for the “Investing in a Healthy Future” capital campaign.
Knutson truly believes that the business of business is not just making money but also giving back. “We appreciate the support of the business community and all the citizens of Willmar and surrounding areas,” stated Knutson, who has assembled a team of like-minded community and business leaders to work along side him in the “Investing in a Healthy Future” campaign endeavor. Campaign leadership includes Doug Bultman, Carole Vennerstrom, Dean Johnson, Bunne Frost-Johnston, Brad Rice and Jon Saunders. Honorary Campaign Chairs include Ken and Alix Behm, John and Donna Haines, Les Heitke, the late Richard and Delores Hoglund, John and Mary Lindstrom, James and Barbara Swenson, Dr. James and Marilynn Tiede and Paul and Sandra Vollan.
“Like the leaders and builders before us, the success of this project has required leadership, foresight, careful planning and philanthropy,” said Ken Behm, Honorary Campaign Chair. The campaign cabinet has been actively meeting with the business community and other community members over the last year to raise funds for those served at Bethesda.
“I am happy to assist in raising funds for Bethesda because I believe in offering a complete array of services to a broad segment of our population. Bethesda is a place that meets the needs of virtually all stages of senior living” stated Steve Renquist, Executive Director of the Kandiyohi County and City of Willmar EDC and Bethesda Board Member. “It is only through the generosity and investment of our friends that allows us to fully offer high quality services at a very competitive cost.”
Philanthropic support from the business community and families for the campaign will ensure that the valued community resource we have in Willmar survives and thrives in the long term and that the significant advantage our seniors enjoy in seeking health care services will remain in place for years to come. The success of the campaign will also allow the new Town Center to become a reality. This vision features a new chapel, meditation room, pastoral care office, general store, café and bistro, salon, activity/game area, guest lounge, library/computer area, private party room, community/hobby areas and so much more. The Town Center will be the heart of the new campus and the heart of Bethesda. It will be a place when residents and visitors come together to enjoy friendship and camaraderie.
Dean Johnson, Campaign Vice-Chair, stated, “Fortunately, generous members of the community share our commitment to ensuring that for years to come, Willmar residents will have access to an even broader range of specialties and services and receive excellent personal care close to home from staff they know and trust at Bethesda.”
If your business is interested in participating in the “Investing in a Healthy Future” campaign or you would like to have a presentation made to your employees on what Bethesda’s building project entails and services offered, please contact the Bethesda Foundation at 320-214-5600.
