Pictured: Randy Schroeder, Frandsen Bank & Trust; John Illikman, New Ulm Area Foundation; Lori Pickell-Stangel, United Way of the Brown County Area; Jessica Janni, Bank Midwest.

The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce Willkommen committee had the pleasure of meeting the new Executive Director John Illikman of the New Ulm Area Foundation. John started his new position at the New Ulm Area Foundation on November 1st after retiring from 3M on July 1st. He has lived in New Ulm for 16 years and enjoys the community. The Foundation gave him a great opportunity to remain active in the community. The New Ulm Area Foundation was started in 1987 as an endowment fund that is managed by Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation. The Foundation is making transitions to keep more money local and recently started their own 501c3. The new non-profit status will provide a differently opportunity to serve the local community in the future. The Foundation grants are voted on and approved based on the four pillars of the foundation. The four pillars include the arts, education, economic development and historic preservation. New Ulm Area Foundation grants are awarded twice each year in the spring and the fall. The contributions to the community are far reaching and enrich the New Ulm area.