Recently, Express Employment Professionals of Oklahoma City, OK, and its franchise location in Owatonna Minnesota donated $10,000 to the Owatonna Foundation to be used for the “We All Play” Project, an All Inclusive Playground and Miracle Ball Field accessible to people of all ages and abilities, featuring areas that will facilitate children’s play through sensory experiences, gross motor play, cognitive play, as well as social and emotional interactions. “We All Play” is a grassroots Owatonna project comprised of the following committee members: Co-chairs Amanda Gislason and Missy Ahrens, with Tim Truelson, Angie Malo, Anna Perkinson, Ann Gander, Megan Beers, Wendy Reller, Laurie Running, Troy Hinrichs, and Justin Kiel to name a few.
The donation to the Owatonna Foundation is part of The Impact Project, an initiative of Express International’s Philanthropic Committee, designed to give back to non-profits nominated by one of the company’s more than 770 franchise locations. Bob Funk, CEO and chairman of the board of Express Employment Processionals stated: “We know how important it is to support the communities where we work, serve, and live. The dedication and support that former owner Betsy Lindgren has shown for her community and “We All Play” is a great example of that service.”
“I was honored to be a part of a company that believes so strongly in giving back to the communities where we live. “We All Play” holds a special place in my heart and we’re excited they were selected as one of the charities to receive this donation.” said Betsy Lindgren, former owner of the Owatonna Express office.
“We are extremely grateful to Express Employment Professionals for this donation to be used towards funding of the “We All Play” Project. This gift will help us to continue the Foundation’s mission of improving the quality of life for present and future generations by supporting Owatonna projects that focus on community, arts, recreation, and education.” said Foundation Executive Coordinator, Laura Resler.
Pictured are left to right: Matt Kottke: Foundation Trustee, Tim Truelson: Owatonna Park and Rec, Kent Kienholz: Foundation Trustee, Amanda and Gunner Gislason from “We all Play”, Betsy Lindgren former owner of Express’s Owatonna Office, Mike Jensen: Foundation Trustee, Missy Ahrens from “We All Play”, Monte Mitchell, Julie Rethemeier, Dave Einhaus, Tom Dufresne, Bob Jungbluth and Jay Johnson: Foundation Trustees
The new playground will be located at Manthey Park and following a successful fundraising effort, the committee is hoping for its completion by the end of 2018. For more information about the “We All Play” Project, please visit their website at www.weallplayowatonna.com.
The Owatonna Foundation was established in 1957 with the goal of improving the quality of life for present and future generations of Owatonna residents. Since then, the Owatonna Foundation has committed more than $11.75 million dollars in grants to Owatonna projects and annually awards $30,000 in scholarships for both traditional and non-traditional students.
For more information about the Owatonna Foundation, please visit our website at: www.owatonnafoundation.org, or call our office at 455-2995.