Community Appreciation Award Given to L.E.A.P.

Todd County Development Corporation chose non-profit L.E.A.P. (leadership, engagement, advocacy & positiveness) to receive its 2019 Community Appreciation Award for their exemplary commitment to community and economic development efforts in Todd County.  “L.E.A.P. is a strong community non-profit partner who has shown a dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our local residents, businesses and community well-being as exemplified by Chairperson Tim Rice, said Rick Ultech, Executive Director of the Todd County Development Corporation.

L.E.A.P. is comprised of many talented and dedicated individuals who have a strong commitment to improve the quality of life in the Staples area. The purpose of the organization is to pursue collaborative projects that enhance the quality of life in the Staples area, be a catalyst for action, provide direction and needed resources, to respond quickly to opportunities, be a home for 501(c)(3) organizations and a clearinghouse of ideas and community activities. By focusing on their core mission, L.E.A.P. has impacted the community in countless ways.

Some of the projects L.E.A.P. has supported are:

• The Staples Motley school project/community center
• Promoting tourism in the area through billboards, kiosks and advertisement
• Improvements to playgrounds and public outdoor space
• Habitat for humanity housing projects

In addition, L.E.A.P. serves as a fiscal agent for nonprofits who do not have their full 501(c)(3) status. As such, smaller nonprofits have increased their capacity to fund raise and take on projects within the community. This has further enlarged the organization’s reach.

Chairperson, Tim Rice, is President and CEO of Lakewood Health System.  Tim accepted the award on behalf of L.E.A.P., saying, “The vision of L.E.A.P. is aligned with LHS’ vision of empowering health and well-being together.  Our community involvement allows us to fulfill our mission and we know that it takes collaboration with all community partners as our vision cannot be achieved alone.  This award serves as both recognition and motivation to continue to work hard to make a difference in enhancing the quality of life where we live, work and play.”

Todd County is fortunate to have non-profit organizations like L.E.A.P. working in collaboration with companies like Lakewood Health System (LHS) to improve the quality of life for residents in and around the Staples area. This spirit of collaboration and driving forward is evident throughout Todd County and one more reason that our area is a wonderful place to call home.

For the leadership they have shown in spearheading quality of life initiatives, L.E.A.P. is more than deserving of this year’s Community Appreciation Award. The Todd County Development Corporation, our board members, investors, stakeholders and the community have all benefited from the actions of L.E.A.P. in some way and we appreciate their continued commitment to Todd County.

Photo Courtsey of Staples World