Since 2002, Renee Richie has worked as the Cargill Scholars program assistant at the Neighborhood Involvement Program, a longstanding south Minneapolis social service entity offering a variety of health care and social services to people in need. Among her other direct service nonprofit experience, she has been director of volunteers for Simpson Housing Services, which provides shelter and support to the homeless; and a GED/ABE tutor at Project for Pride in Living. Richie is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a bachelor's degree in political science.

The goal of McKnight's grantmaking for region and communities is to encourage efficient development within the Twin Cities region that creates livable communities and opportunities for all to thrive. We do this through grants that support regional growth management, neighborhood improvement, affordable housing, open space protection, and transportation. In 2005, 25 percent of the Foundation's annual payout went toward the region and communities program area.

ABOUT THE MCKNIGHT FOUNDATION

Founded in 1953 and endowed by William L. McKnight and Maude L. McKnight, The McKnight Foundation has assets of approximately $2 billion and granted about $90 million in 2005. McKnight is an independent private philanthropic organization; the Foundation has no relationship with the 3M Company, although Mr. McKnight was one of 3M's early leaders.

Contact
Tim Hanrahan, Communications Director, 612-333-4220