Osseo Community Foundation
What Once Was Odd, We Strive to Make Common
Purpose
To encourage community participation in the enhancement of the Osseo community by growing the foundation and providing financial resources for the benefit of the Osseo community.
Mission Statement
We are committed to growing permanently endowed funds and reinvesting in our community by meeting the ever-changing needs and opportunities of tomorrow.
Board of Trustrees
Jackie Fair, Jim Matteson, Eldon Tessman, Warren Wills, Dan Spanier, Terry McNeil, and Cynthia Noren (president -- phone 763.425.2205).
Our History - The Legacy of the Odd Fellows
The Osseo Community Foundation was established in 2001 when the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Osseo Lodge No. 206, chose to dissolve and leave a legacy to the Osseo community.
In 17th century England, it was peculiar, or odd, to find people organized for the purpose of giving aid to those in need and of pursuing projects for the benefit of all mankind. Those who belonged to such organizations were call "odd fellows", thus a fellowship was born. Founded in 1893, the Osseo Lodge of the Odd Fellows worked together "to improve and elevate the character of man." The Osseo Lodge has a longstanding history of major contributions to our community. The Odd Fellow Lodge Hall was the center for many community activities such as dances, bingo, 500 card parties, Osseo football banquets, and wedding receptions until a disastrous fire completely burned the building in 1987.
The Odd Fellows began the Concerts in the Park series--a staple in Osseo that is still enjoyed today. Such community enhancements were what the last five members of the Lodge wanted to see continued through this foundation. Harry Bearl, Roger McHugh, Don Olson, Richard Setzler, and Eldon Tessman specifically requested that the foundation focus on the seniors and the youth of the Osseo community. They believe, as does the foundation's board, that it is important for Osseo to retain more than 100 years of community involvement and benefit from funds the Odd Fellows worked so hard to build. The foundation is committed to continuing their work.
Our Commitment - The Benefit to our Community
The foundation was created to focus resources on specific community treasures. We seek to preserve and enhance our unique community. The resources will be channeled toward our Seniors and our Youth.
How do we maintain the friendly atmosphere and neighborly spirit that is inherent in our community? By investing in such programs as Concerts in the Park, Youth Activities, and Senior Activities.
Our Future - The Importance of Your Contribution
Recent economic times have slowed the growth of the original endowment. Therefore, we look to our community members to continue the tradition of giving--making it common rather than "odd" to help those in need.
The foundation does not seek to actively solicit funds. Rather, we ask that you consider passing on your legacy in the form of a donation to the Osseo Community Foundation.
The foundation is exempt from federal income tax under section 501(a) as an organization described in 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.
Your donations will be put to good use. Your community will be enhanced as a result. And your legacy will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
