Mayo Clinic recently made a two-year $50,000 commitment to Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation to support its work in helping create healthy, vibrant communities within 20 southern Minnesota counties.

Mayo has been an annual supporter since 1995, contributing a total of $245,000 to Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation.

“Mayo has a long relationship with Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and continues to be supportive of the initiatives in community success, business success, leadership development, and advocacy for the region,” said Karel Weigel, administrator of community relations.

“We chose to direct our contribution to The Foundation’s grassroots initiatives and long range planning that will help communities build a solid foundation for economic development, infrastructure support and social well being.”

“Thanks to the Mayo gift,” said Foundation President Trixie Ann Golberg, “projects like the Owatonna College and University Literacy Center, the Workforce Literacy Alliance and the Bio Industry initiative will continue to support businesses and employment opportunities across southern Minnesota.&uot;

For information on supporting The Foundation’s efforts in building stronger communities and businesses, call (507) 455-3215, e-mail carolc@smifoundation.org, visit The Foundation’s Web site at www.smifoundation.org or write to Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, PO Box 695, Owatonna, MN 55060.

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, a donor-supported foundation, is helping build stronger communities and businesses in 20 southern Minnesota counties. Working with communities, donors and business partners, The Foundation has provided over $29 million in grants and loans within the region during the past 19 years.