A message from Jeff Heegaard: New year, a time of changes

Dear friends,

In this era of economic uncertainty, I am pleased to say that 1000 Friends of Minnesota had a successful annual appeal thanks to the generous outpouring from new and continuing members. We are grateful to our donors and foundations, especially the McKnight Foundation. We are heartened by your support.

I am writing to share with you my decision to step down as executive director of 1000 Friends of Minnesota to pursue the next chapter in my life. Like you, I have a deep passion and love for our mission. Nonetheless, I believe this is an appropriate time for a transition to new leadership.

I leave confident that our amazing staff will continue to do great things like the recent accomplishments: local policy changes through the Community Growth Options project, our policy and advocacy work at the legislature, and winning a regional Emmy award for Legacy Letters. I am extremely proud of the work of this organization and I know that the staff and board of directors will make great things happen for Minnesota.

I will remain on staff until mid March or early April and after that I look forward to pursuing new endeavors and watching 1000 Friends of Minnesota blossom to its fullest potential with emphasis on its programmatic work.

The board of directors is working on a leadership transition plan that will result in an interim leadership appointment to be announced in April 2010.

I extend my best wishes to you, our supporters, our brilliant and talented staff and our dedicated board of directors. I am thankful beyond measure for the great contribution to my life that these last five years have brought me.

With gratitude,

Jeff Heegaard