The Lamberton Pool Committee received a $30,000 grant for pool improvements from the Lamberton Area Community Foundation, presented by Foundation Chair Brian Kletscher to Pool Manager Mindi Hesse.
The grant brings together $10,000 in matching funds from the Lamberton Lions Club and $20,000 raised by community members and businesses, who surpassed the initial goal with their donations.
In November 2025, the Foundation launched the Pool Project through Give to the Max, a statewide fundraising event that supports nonprofits across Minnesota. It was the Foundation’s first time taking part, and the response far exceeded expectations.
“The outstanding response to this project was due to the value that area residents place on the local pool,” said Lori Creighton, Foundation board member. “The community really mobilized to spread the word about the fundraising campaign and then they showed up with their donations.”
The pool opened late this season while the next phase of improvements was completed. That work included a new concrete deck, fence, drains and piping, new ladders, and guard chairs.
Even with the late start, the numbers show how much the community values the pool. This season 39 family passes, 26 individual passes, and 40 punch cards were sold. There were 153 signups for swimming lessons taught by a highly qualified staff, most of them certified Water Safety Instructors. Water aerobics ran Monday through Friday and drew about 10 people a day.
“I grew up going to this pool every single day—we used to wait in line early just to be the first ones through the gate,” said Mindi Hesse. “Our pool is a learning environment first, but it is also about fun and community connection right here in Lamberton without having to travel. We are deeply grateful to the Lamberton Area Community Foundation and everyone who supports the pool and the updates needed to keep it going.”
Because of strong community and financial support, the Lamberton Community Pool continues to be a safe and welcoming place for summer fun, first jobs, and local connection. Thank you to all the individuals, families, businesses, and the Lamberton Lions Club whose gifts help keep the pool open. Thanks also to every swimmer, parent, and supporter who made this season a success.
The Foundation will announce its next Give to the Max project this fall, but you can share a gift at any time. Donations are accepted year-round, and not just by check. You can also give appreciated stock, grain or other commodities, farmland, retirement plan assets, or include a bequest in your will, all of which can come with tax advantages. There’s also the option of a charitable gift annuity, where you make a gift of cash or securities and receive fixed annual payments back for the rest of your life. Gifts are made through Southwest Initiative Foundation for the benefit of the Lamberton Area Community Foundation.