Black Oak Getty Community Fund

The Black Oak Getty Community Fund is the result of a commitment originally made by Geronimo and honored by Sempra Renewables to use a portion of the wind farm’s profits to give back directly to the area communities. The fund consists of an advisory board of local volunteers who have partnered with the Initiative Foundation. 

As local volunteers, we know our neighbors, share your interests and are invested in the future of our community. Our partnership with the Initiative Foundation combines local knowledge and leadership with professional expertise and guidance to identify community needs, serve donors and manage our investments. 

Community foundations are tax-exempt public charities serving thousands of people who share a common interest – improving the quality of life in their area. As your community’s foundation, we provide the leadership to help people give back to Black Oak Getty Wind Farm Area Communities with measured impact and great meaning. 

Advisory Board Members:

Chair – Bob Ritter
Secretary – Tom Oschwald
Treasurer – Janet Lahr
Member – Bill Minette
Member – Bill Berg 

Created in 1986, the Initiative Foundation is empowering the people of Central Minnesota to build and sustain thriving communities. The Foundation serves the 14 counties of Central Minnesota, providing nonprofit grants, business loans, leadership training and an array of donor services. We believe that local people have the greatest sum of initiative, knowledge and relationships to achieve a brighter future. 

In partnership with Black Oak Getty Community Fund, the Initiative Foundation oversees and manages financial contributions for the fund. The Foundation also provides staff support to the advisory board and ensures compliance with legal and professional standards. These services allow volunteer leaders to focus on meeting community needs and enhancing the local quality of life. Because the Initiative Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, contributions to the fund are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.