Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund
A Partner Fund of the Initiative Foundation
About the Fund
The Central Minnesota Builders Association (CMBA) works to offer increased support to schools by providing tools, supplies, grants, education and scholarships to enhance learning opportunities and to inspire more interest in the building trades as a career choice. The Tools for Schools Presidents Fund & Initiative is the brainchild of former CMBA President Craig Schoenberg of Schoenberg Construction, St. Cloud. The Tools for Schools Fund & Initiative has three primary goals:
- Enhance the learning experiences for high schools students who show interest in entering the construction trades;
- Provide information and direction on career options within the trades;
- Address the building industry’s labor shortages.
To support these goals—and to build a stronger connection between the trades and future workforce members, please help the fund connect with area educators and high school students to address and resolve issues that contribute to labor shortages and the downward trend in public education program supporting the industry’s workforce needs.
Our Impact
$33,000
granted in 2024 to Central Minnesota high schools to provide students with updated tools and education on careers in the trades
Engage With the Fund
Donate Online: Support this work by giving to the Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund. Donate now! If your employer makes matching donations for their employees, be sure to inquire on the process before making your gift.
Mail a Check: To make donations and payments more secure and to streamline processes, the Initiative Foundation partners with Bremer Bank. Please write the check to Initiative Foundation-Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund, note the purpose of your contribution on the memo line, and mail to this address:
Initiative Foundation – 446122
P.O. Box 64182
St. Paul, MN 55164-0182
While the mailing address may be in St. Paul, the Initiative Foundation continues to maintain its headquarters in the heart of Central Minnesota at 405 First St. SE, Little Falls, MN 56345.
Give a Planned Gift: If you would like to contribute another type of gift, please contact the Initiative Foundation at (320) 632-9255. An Initiative Foundation staff member will be happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Making a charitable bequest in your will is often the easiest way to make a significant gift and leave a lasting legacy. Gifts large and small are important. It is simpler than you might think to make a meaningful difference!
If you would like to leave the Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund in your will, make another type of planned gift, or contribute an appreciated asset, please call the Initiative Foundation at (320) 632-9255 and a staff member will be happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. In partnership with the Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund, the Initiative Foundation owns and manages financial contributions for the Central MN Builders Association Tools for Schools Fund.
Questions?
Do you want to know how to apply for a grant or how you might leave a lasting legacy to support this fund? Contact a member of the fund’s advisory team (above) or reach out to Community Philanthropy Manager Amy Gray or Carl Newbanks, vice president of philanthropy. We’re here to help Central Minnesotans build a thriving economy, vibrant communities, and a lasting culture of generosity.
Start a Fund
Looking to leave a legacy in Central Minnesota? Start a Partner Fund with the Initiative Foundation and maximize your tax benefits while supporting important causes and organizations.