GLAD History

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.