Aggie board members show off their NDSU spirit. From left to right are David Buen, Lee Grossman (former board member), Josh Stahlecker, Terry Peterson and Wade Kittelson.

Founded in 2012 by a group of high school classmates, the Aggie Foundation has quickly grown into a community staple.

“We kind of had the idea while talking around the campfire about how it would be cool to give back to the community,” said Aggie Foundation President Terry Peterson. “Myself and all of the board members graduated from Velva but after graduation we scattered a bit. This was a way for us to stay connected as well as giving back.”

“Initially, we were raising money by tailgating at football games, freewill donation meals and other similar small town events,” Peterson said. “After we received our 501(c)(3) status we were able to be that fiscal sponsor for other organizations.”

The organization’s primary source of funding comes from donations from the community. The Aggie Foundation also runs a charitable gaming business collaborating with local bars, restaurants and social clubs for charitable gaming events. As well as grant funding, the foundation works with businesses and organizations that are looking to provide economic support to local organizations and public interest programs.

The organization’s mission is to support education, amateur sports and economic development as a means to create vibrant communities.

“Any donations or charitable proceeds that we receive in a town, stay in that town,” Peterson said.

In 2024, the foundation donated $857,206, impacted 261 organizations and impacted 32 communities. The following communities impacted included:

– Minot: $177,275

– Granville: $84,100

– Velva: $73,411

– Surrey: $99,271

The following donations have been received this year in Minot and surrounding area including:

•Velva/Drake/Anamoose baseball: $1,000

•Minot Soccer Association: $1,700

•Community Action Partnership of Minot: $1,000

•Minot Curling Club youth curling program: $350

•Minot North High School robotics team: $1,000

•Minot Area Recovery Community Organization: $1,000

•Minot Area Recovery Community Organization: $1,000

•Minot Curling Club youth curling program: $350

•Velva Volunteer Fire Department: $500

•Surrey Police Department: $13,240

•Minot North baseball: $1,000

•Surrey after prom party: $2,000

•Minot State Athletics: $1,000

•Des Lacs-Burlington FFA: $1,500

•Surrey Public School: $1,911

•City of Surrey: $2,500