GLAD’s Beginnings:

• 2002 – Initial discussions for establishing an economic development coordinator.
• 2003 – Contact with Rural Learning Center (RLC), Dr. Jim Beddow.
  ¨ Entrepreneurial Mapping Marshall, Day, Roberts
• 2004 – Community Profile for “Greater Marshall County” conducted.
• 2004 – SDREI Regional Leadership Plenty Course in Eden, SD
• 2005 – Dr. Jim Beddow and Linda Salmonson hosted 4 meetings.
  ¨ Presented “Greater Marshall County” Community Assets
  ¨ Identified whether communities felt an actual need to hire an economic & community development specialist.
  ¨ Steering Committee formed w/representation from each community involved.
  ¨ GLAD Fundraising
• 2006 – Formed partnership with NESDCAP & NESDEC
  Hired part-time Executive Director -shared the staff person with NESDCAP.
• 2007 - Hired Full time Executive Director - 20% time shared with NESDCAP

GLAD Today:

• 2008 Programs and Projects –the objectives for the year. (Submitted SD Community Fdn. Grant for projects in Education; Tourism; Business Development (housing); Wind Development (or energy development); and Staffing.
• Further establishing and developing relationships, administering programs and activities, and cultivating culture of entreprenuership and positive growth of our region.
• Continue to draw upon communities’ insights, needs, and participation.

Funding Sources:

• RCDI Grant -$20,000 per year for 3 years. 2007-2009 =Total grant $60,000.
• 3 Year Commitments - 2006 to 2008
  Each city contributes $5 dollars per person in their towns toward funding the Executive Director position. The Marshall County Commission contributes office space and $1 per person in the county.
• GLAD Events: Diva Purse Auction; Celebrity Pheasant Hunt; Wellness Weekend Retreat; & Bachelor Auction, Creating a Value Added community, Paint SD, to name a few.
• Corporate contributions, community organizations, and other stakeholders.