What Community Members Say About Working With LEAD
“There is no greater foundation for leadership than by simple example. LEAD does that by connecting countless young professionals with hundreds of non-profits here in the Twin Cities. This is where the real work of this organization takes place. The good work done by LEAD reminds a generation of young people of the responsibility they have to those in need. Minnesota is known for its charitable spirit. LEAD is ensuring that spirit continues to grow.”
- Former Senator Norm Coleman

“The funding Children’s Dental Services received from its partnership with LEAD is supporting the care of 500 of the most vulnerable children in the Twin Cities, many of whom have never visited a dentist and have little to no information about how to prevent dental disease. The assistance of LEAD will give these kids a fresh start, enabling them to attend school without being in pain and to share a healthy smile when they greet the world. ”
- Sarah Wovcha, J.D., M.P.H.,
Children’s Dental Services Executive Director
“Through LEAD’s Board Boot Camp, I met a group of passionate and involved individuals. I got to learn from their experiences in the workplaces and board experiences. It was helpful to be able to take the time to learn from one another and work through practical scenarios that boards go through. The Board Boot Camp laid out board expectations and what to look for. The training enhanced my leadership skills to help with some skill based volunteering I’m involved in.”
- Mary Kay Hanson (Target)
Attended LEAD events and Board Boot Camps
“LEAD’s contribution to Great River Greening is, literally, planting a seed for tomorrow. Every LEAD member who gets involved, as a donor or volunteer, is a part of this growth. Today communities all over the region want to inspire their residents to be good stewards and inspire their children to make their own world better once they are adults. It is hopeful, important work, and we are proud to work with LEAD to make this happen.”
- Deborah Karasov,
Great River Greening Executive Director
“Our kids are the primary focus and the direct benefactors of LEAD’s in-kind donation. LEAD’s contribution improved the lives of our youth and their families by giving them additional resources to help combat truancy and juvenile delinquency; teaching them healthy habits, ways to build confidence and instill trust.”
- Darrell Thompson,
Bolder Options Executive Director
“The LEAD Project helped me get involved with local nonprofit organizations that make a difference in peoples’ everyday lives both locally and globally. I am fortunate for the opportunity to take my experiences from Corporate America and apply that knowledge to impact our organizational culture, corporate governance, and how we respond to our stakeholders’ needs. My time on the Boards of GCN and ISE has been challenging, but some of the most rewarding work I have done. The LEAD Project has not only opened me up to a new community of like-minded individuals, but it has changed the way I view myself as a global citizen. I would encourage anyone to work with The LEAD Project and get involved with local nonprofit organizations that are aligned with their personal values.”
- Peter Wagner (United Health Group)
Treasurer and Board of Directors on Global Citizens Network and Intercultural Student Experiences
“The LEAD Project connected me with the board of an outstanding local nonprofit. Having the opportunity to utilize my own skills to further the mission of an organization that I truly believe in has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The LEAD Project is the perfect organization for the young professional looking to further their community involvement. Their process makes it simple to connect emerging leaders with certified nonprofits looking to bring new creativity to their boards. I highly encourage any young professional looking to get involved with a local nonprofit to check out opportunities available through and aligned with LEAD. They won’t be disappointed with what they find.”
- Cortney Storsved (Ticket King)
Tix for Tots Board of Directors
“LEAD is an opportunity for a wide variety of young professionals to stir up interest in community involvement. The events are an opportunity to connect a nonprofit to the community. The way LEAD shares local board opportunities is a key component to connecting young professionals to needs in the nonprofit world.”
- Tim Huebsch (General Mills)
Attended LEAD events and Board Boot Camps

