Take Five with Region Five

Quarterly Newsletter | April 2019

In this issue we share information about our current projects, news, upcoming events and resources to promote welcoming communities.

What are we up to?

R5DC & Sourcwell Partner for Welcoming Communities Initiative

Regional partners Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) and Sourcewell are teaming up to expand the Welcoming Communities program to their shared five-county region in Central MN. This program is focused on workforce attraction and expanding cultural agility for individuals, organizations, and communities. Initially supported by The Blandin Foundation and Northwest Area Foundation, the program has received support from Sourcewell for continued growth.

Program Offers Community Supported Agriculture for Veterans

The goal of the VetCSA is to improve the overall quality of life for veterans and their families. This initiative delivers healthy foods and gives additional knowledge and skills on how to prepare them. Building a healthy lifestyle creates a positive effect on physical and mental health. The VetCSA also brings veterans, families, growers and communities together. Learn more .

Solar Schools Project Underway

Check out the time lapse video, courtesy of RREAL, for the Pine River-Backus Schools solar installation!

Pine River Solar for Schools Timelapse (Shorter Version)

The installation of six solar arrays, totaling 1.5 MW, for Pine River-Backus and Pequot Lakes school districts and Central Lakes College is slated for completion in May 2019. More to follow on this exciting project and a ribbon-cutting event!

This project is made possible by the following partners: Xcel Energy Renewable Development Fund, Minnesota Public Utilities, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, Region Five Development Commission, Rural Renewable Energy Alliance, REAL Solar Design-Build, New Energy Equity LLC, Minnesota Power*, Brainerd Public Utilities*, Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative*, Sourcewell, Widseth Smith Nolting, Kandiyo Consulting, and valued, local contractors. *site specific partners

Cass Lake-Bena Safe Routes to School Success Story

“It was very critical that Region Five Development Commission guided us through the process to have a really good plan, giving us the opportunity to get a grant to fund the bike and walking trail,” stated Karolyn Roebuck. Completed in October of 2017, the biking and walking trail provides a safe route to connect students and the community from the Heartland Trail and Highway 371 right to school doors. Read more .