The Power of Possible
Join the Movement
A Movement Built on Possibility Is Taking Shape Across Minnesota.
What becomes possible when people choose to invest in one another?
Across Minnesota, people are doing exactly that. They’re coming together to solve problems, strengthen communities and create opportunities for one another. They are neighbors supporting neighbors, nonprofit leaders finding new ways forward, donors investing in bold ideas and communities working together across differences to build a better future. These stories may not always make headlines, but they are shaping lives every day.
At the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, we have the privilege of seeing this work up close.
In 2025 alone, the Foundation and its fundholders directed more than $128 million to 3,550 organizations across the state. Behind every grant, gift and act of generosity is a belief that change is possible. When we come together, we can accomplish more than any one person or organization can alone.
This belief is at the heart of the Power of Possible, a new campaign celebrating the people, partnerships and ideas that help communities thrive.
What does the Power of Possible look like?
Through stories, conversations and community voices, our campaign highlights what’s possible when generosity meets action and when people choose to invest in one another and in the future we all share.
“Even as we hold our differences, we care about the same things,” said President and CEO Chanda Smith Baker. “That our families are well. That we can pay our bills, afford food and gas, and make a life that we've dreamed of for ourselves, our children and our neighborhoods. Dreaming of a better future alone can be scary. The Power of Possible is an invitation to dream together, and to be inspired by the work of others.”
Stories of community leadership
At the center of Power of Possible are stories of generosity in action — a neighbor stepping forward, a donor funding a grassroots solution or a community coming together across difference to build something that didn’t exist before.
Conversations about what leadership means now
The Power of Possible: Leadership Edition features conversations between Chanda Smith Baker and Dr. Tashion Macon, exploring what it means to lead in a moment like this: vulnerability, trust, staying connected to community and the role of imagination when the path forward isn’t clear
An invitation to participate:
We know nothing is possible without the power of community. That’s why we would like to hear from you, our nonprofit leaders, community advocates, fundholders and future donors. What does the Power of Possible mean to you? What possibilities are you powering in your community?
Join us and share your own story of possibility. To learn more about our work, or to find ways to give, visit spmcf.org/pop.
“Dreaming of a better future alone can be scary. The Power of Possible is an invitation to dream together, and to be inspired by the work of others.”
Chanda Smith Baker
More Stories
A Career Rooted in Community
After three decades of service, Carrie Jo Short reflects on the people, partnerships and purpose that defined her time at the Foundation.
Read the Q&A
A Community Lifeline in Changing Times
Valley Outreach connects thousands of families to food, resources and a welcoming community.
Meet Valley Outreach
Giving Rooted in Gratitude
A life-saving experience at Children’s Minnesota transforms Jeff and Janet von Gillern’s gratitude into lasting generosity.
Watch the video
Bridge to Basics: Hygiene Support Bonded by Friendship
Friends Rana Khoury and Kristie Thibodeau turn shared commitment to volunteering into a bustling nonprofit.
Watch the video
Thoughtful Giving, Grounded in Community
Learn why partnering with the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation can improve your philanthropic giving.
See How
When It’s Time to Sell: How One Business Owner Used Private Stock to Multiply His Impact
As he prepared to exit a long-held company, Al Geiwitz discovered how donating privately held stock could reduce taxes and fuel long-term giving.
Meet Al
Holding Hope When It Matters Most
Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation’s president and CEO shares how humility, hope and deep relationships guide her leadership.
Read the Q&A