"The moon is a reminder that no matter what phase I am in, I am still whole." -Unknown
This quote, a poignant reminder of our shared humanity, was a cornerstone of inspiration for the concept of Phases Family Support, founded in 2022. Their organization assists and provides support to local economically challenged and/or less fortunate individuals and families in our area. “We’re guided by our core values: integrity, community, humility, empathy and love. Our mission is to lovingly support individuals and families through all of life's phases,” explained Michele Haakonson, Founder and President.
“Starting a nonprofit had been a dream of mine for years. I’ve always enjoyed helping others, and gift-giving is my love language. I was a Registered Nurse for years until I stepped back to help my husband run his business and raise our kids. I remember brainstorming nonprofit names on my drive to and from work. I never really knew exactly what type of nonprofit I wanted to start; it was just a dream of mine to start one. Over the years, my husband and I have donated to a variety of organizations and individuals in need, and when a fellow mom told me about a child in my son’s class who didn’t have proper winter clothing (boots had holes, no snow pants or gloves), I packed up extras that we had. A few of us moms made sure that this child and his brother got the clothing and items that they needed. This was when things started to click for me. I realized that I didn’t need a “niche”. I just needed to jump in and start a nonprofit that helps individuals and families meet their needs. So, I started Phases Family Support in February of 2022 to help those who are going through tough phases of life.”
Phases of life - and their demands - look different for everyone, and Phases Family Support adapts accordingly. “We rely solely on donations (from individuals and businesses). We are not government-funded or a form of ongoing assistance. Our organization is meant to bridge the gap between assistance and help out during a particularly dark time in someone’s life. We provide donated items, such as food, clothing, household and hygiene products, baby items, etc. We also provide gas cards when we have them or help with smaller (typically under $250) bills as our budget allows. We have some storage space, but if we do not have the items requested, we will try to reach out and locate them. If we’re not able to help with the specific need, we try to help connect people with other possible resources in our area.”
“One program we offer is our ‘Eclipse Packs.’ These are boxes filled with food items, household and hygiene products, gas cards or bus passes, and more. These packs are distributed to individuals and families in Central Minnesota who are nominated and are delivered to their homes as a surprise little helpful package. Our goal with this program is that these packs will help ease the burden a little, as well as boost the spirits of those who are struggling. We love the nomination aspect because it helps build a sense of community and togetherness, and we love people helping people. There are so many people who could really use some help, but for a multitude of reasons, they just won’t ask for it. This program really helps us live out our vision – a community where no one feels like they are alone in any phase of their life,” shared Michele. “Our other program is our Crescent Moon Fund program. This program assists families going through a tough phase of life. We assist with unexpected expenses up to $250. Some examples include auto emergencies, medical emergencies, household repairs, and natural disaster expenses.”
As a donation-funded non-profit, collaboration is key for Phases Family Support. “We have met with, worked with, and collaborated with many other non-profit organizations in Central Minnesota. We have partnered with Feeding Area Children Together to help get FACT Packs to the kids in our home district (Albany), as well as sponsoring kids off the waitlist for the past two school years. We work closely with the Albany Area School District social workers to bring snacks to Avon Elementary for the kids who cannot bring their own and will continue with the weekend food program. Our organization works with multiple Stearns County Social Workers to assist with their clients' needs on an ongoing basis. We work closely with TriCap as well. We occasionally provide them with gas cards and bus passes to pass along to their clients who need assistance getting to work. We also frequently help them with specific items as requested for their clients.”
“We have had such great experiences with other nonprofit organizations in the area, as well as local businesses. We have an annual Lunar Legacy fundraising event, and many businesses in Central Minnesota have sponsored or donated to our silent auction. For such a large community, there is a loving small-town feel to it that is wonderful. It has been so truly awe-inspiring to see how many great people, organizations, and businesses we have in Central Minnesota. There is such a huge need for assistance, and some days, it can feel overwhelming and defeating, but most days are uplifting. The people in this community really do want to help others and it has been a beautiful thing to witness.”
If you want to learn more about Phases Family Support, you can visit their website or follow them on social media. “The best way to support us would be to spread the word about our organization, and as a non-profit, we are always looking for donations to continue our mission of supporting individuals and families through all of life's phases. Donations can also be made on our website or mailed to PO Box 390, Avon, MN 56310.”
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