Gambling on a good cause; fundraising for firefighters and veterans

As we step into March, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible community efforts that supported our favorite worthy causes last month. February was filled with generosity, camaraderie and unwavering support for causes close to our hearts.

On a crisp Saturday evening, the Bridge Tavern in rural Crosby buzzed with excitement as supporters gathered for an annual ice-fishing gear raffle, benefiting Homeless & Wounded Warriors – MN. Thanks to the overwhelming participation from the community, every single raffle ticket sold out, which raised $18,000 for HWW-MN.

Prizes included a lifetime fishing license for a lucky youth angler, high-value fishing packages, electric augers, and much more. This fundraiser not only supported a great cause but reinforced the incredible spirit of giving that defines our community.

The Cuyuna Fire Department, which also holds a Saturday meat raffle preceding the fishing raffle, donated the event prizes. The back-to-back raffles have fed off of each other, bringing more interest, excitement and awareness for HWW-MN. And the funds are much needed.

In the past month, the money has been used to help local veterans with appliance replacement, utility bills, septic systems and more.

“We have been donating about $20,000 each month for the past 6 months,” said Russ Philstrom, chairman of HWW-MN. “We are so blessed to have been able to continue getting donations from lots of businesses and people plus the fundraising events we sponsor like the ice fishing raffle. … The generosity of the public today willing to help veterans and their families is something we are especially grateful for and we are proud to have this kind of help and support”

A carnival of compassion

The longtime Nisswa Winter Jubilee Fishing Carnival was held on Sunday, Feb. 16, and was another rousing success.

The event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Nisswa Fire Department each year. The venue has permanently moved from Nisswa Lake to an indoor setting to avoid unpredictable ice conditions. Now the event has become a kid-friendly atmosphere with games and prizes, along with raffles for adults, too.

Broker Associate Dan Schueller and Realtor Victoria Litteral from our team each brought their kids for a day of competition, fun and good luck.