The Friends of Finland Board of Directors

The Friends of the Finland (FoF) Community’s Mission is to help make Finland and its surrounding area an inviting and vibrant place by:
Creating community spaces and connections, Supporting economic initiatives,
Implementing social programs, Enhancing natural surroundings, and
Demonstrating sustainable practices.

The Board will support the work of FoF and provide mission-based leadership and strategic governance. While day-to-day operations are led by FoF’s Executive Director (ED) and the Core Team, the Board-FoF relationship is a partnership, and the appropriate involvement of the Board is both critical and expected.

Current Board Members:

  • Carrie Walters (Board Chair)
  • David Abazs (Vice Chair)
  • Kelly Ulrich (Treasurer)
  • Joe Walewski (Secretary)
  • Kurt Mead (At Large)

Contact the Board of Directors by emailing to board@friendsoffinland.org

Joining the FoF board is an extraordinary opportunity for an individual who is passionate about FoF’s mission and is looking to serve the community through board service. Ideal candidates:

  • Have a commitment and understanding of the FoF mission and stakeholders.
  • Bring unique perspective that represents the various groups that FoF serves.
  • Offer skills and knowledge that develop the organization and help the board meet its responsibilities.
  • Are excited to work collaboratively and creatively in the interest of the organization's future by practicing vision and flexibility.
  • Hold a willingness to learn and grow together.

What the Board does:

We support the growth and mission of FoF through:

  • Engaging in strategic planning and monitoring progress.
  • Holding the financial and legal oversight of the organization.
  • Directly supporting the Executive Director.
  • Assist in providing the tools and resources for the Core Team to flourish in their roles and carry out their duties.

How the Board meets its responsibilities:

  • Committing to learning and understanding the history, mission, and vision of the FoF organization. 
  • Attending and engaging regularly in monthly scheduled board meetings.
  • Reviewing information prior to each board meeting.
  • Actively engaging and participating with FoF activities.
  • Contacting people willing to donate or help meet the mission of the organization.
  • Being an ambassador of FoF in the community.
  • Understanding programs and services.
  • Approving and being knowledgeable about the annual budget.
  • Evaluating self at end of 1st year and end of terms thereafter.

Friends of Finland Bylaws

How to apply:

Print and fill out the Friends Of Finland Boad Application then return it to the Clair Nelson Center or mail it to:

Friends of the Finland Community
PO Box 582
Finland, MN 5563