Women's Impact Magazine Vol. 4

SECTION NAME
WINTER 2015
MOLLY
YEH
Food blogger takes success

from Minnesota farm
to international stage
INSIDE
Winter
survival kit:
How to stay
happy, healthy
#WIgram
Photographer,
advocate shares
lifes snapshots
SECTION NAME
Proudly Sponsors
Heid i O d eg aar d
Foun d er /D i r ect o r
001172363r1
701- 373- 0397
www.hal eyshope. o r g
Project Give Five leads an effort to empower impoverished

families to rebuild their lives, breaking the cycle of poverty. It is
the goal of Project Give Five not only to help local neighbors,
but also to help neighbors around the world. Project High Five
believes anyone, no matter how much they feel they have to
give, can make a difference in the world.
i nfo@ project g i vefi ve . co m

www.project g i vefi ve . co m
M a ry Jea n
Li f f ri g Dehne
Executive Director
Peb b l es T homp son

Found er/ CEO
Legacy Childrens Foundation provides an opportunity for

children with few resources to develop their innate gifts and
talents while learning the values necessary to be satisfied
and successful. Founder Mary Jean Dehnes goal is to assist
diverse teens in their quest to achieve a high school diploma.
She believes that acknowledging the needs of others creates
relationships of compassion, generosity and love
legacychildrensfoundation@gmail.com
www.legacychildrensfoundation.com
Project Ignite Light provides a Bag of Hope to children who

have suffered physical or sexual abuse in North Dakota.
The bags, containing daily necessities and comfort items,
have told thousands of child abuse victims that someone
cares about them. With each donated item, nancial gift,
volunteer hour and prayer, Project Ignite Light makes a
difference and shines light in the darkness of child abuse.
701- 646- HOPE(4 6 7 3 )

w w w . i gn i te l ig h t . o r g
Please join Bell State Bank & Trust in supporting and encouraging these
nonprofit organizations. Bell is proud to be a great place to work and a great
place to bank. We choose to pay it forward to these vital and optimistic women
who are positively impacting peoples lives in the world and in the workplace.
Together, we all grow the economic security and financial independence of the
women and families we serve. How will you pay it forward today?
001166905r1
Julie Peterson Klein

EVP/Chief Culture Officer
bellbanks.com
Bell State Bank & Trust PROUDLY SUPPORTS EMPOWERING BUSINESSES BY SPONSORING THIS PAGE.
3 WOMENS IMPACT | WINTER 2015
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Haleys Hope serves those who struggle with reading difculty

due to dyslexia. With the belief that everyone should have an
equal opportunity to learn to read and express themselves,
Haleys Hope offers these services to anyone in need. The
organization increases awareness of dyslexia through an
education program designed to teach others about dyslexia,
the warning signs and the solutions for dyslexia.
001172373r1
Ka r i B u ch o l z
Ex e cu t i ve D i r ect o r
an d F o u n d er
CC CONNECTION
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COMMUNITY
SECTION NAME
CONTENTS
WINTER 2015
Molly Yeh and her fianc, Nick Hagen, moved to East Grand Forks, Minn., a year ago after attending school at Julliard Performing Arts School. Yeh, an award-winning blogger,
makes most of her culinary creations from their farm kitchen. Photo by Eric Hylden / Grand Forks Herald
COV E R S T O RY
In between making lefse for the New York Times
and planning her December wedding, blogger Molly Yeh finds
comfort in whats made her famous: her food. Page 18
CONTENTS | WINTER 2015
1 4 SO C I A L C O N N E C T ION
Leadership program brings together 35
young women to find, reach full potential.
3 6 # W I G RA M
IN
TH IS
I S S U E 4 2 G LO B A L I M PAC T
Photographer Tanya Kay, a North Dakota native
and Colorado transplant, shares her Instagram
snapshots from her travels, everyday life.
Software engineer Betty Gronneberg gives back to

her home country through a mission to expand literacy.
4 8 IN S P I R I N G DI Y
Get inspired at home by creating one of

Michelle Riedemanns craft projects, and read about
how the mom turned her hobby into a business.
YOUNGBLOOD
MINERAL COSMETICS
THE LOOK THE FEEL THE ATMOSPHERE

HAIR CARE SKIN CARE FACIALS/MASSAGE NATURAL COLOUR BODY CARE/WAXING
S t udi o 2
2 7 5 0 Ga te wa y Dr.
Gra n d F o rks
701-746-8000
Online Booking available www.avanthairstudio.com

https://www.facebook.com/Avanthairstudio
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Stu dio 1
33 S outh 3 r d S t .
G ra nd For k s
701-775-5333
FOUNDE R S N O T E
FEARLESS
FRONTIERS
la, fearless friends and

Womens Impact supporters.
Im so excited to bring you
another issue of our Womens
Impact magazine.
Weve been tapping into our hearts these past
few months, and the wonderful results are in
your hands.
Im proud to share a new initiative we created
to empower female entrepreneurs in our
community.
This innovative initiative, like many ideas
in our lives, was sparked by the power of one
connection.
A few months ago, I stopped at a new
business and immediately connected with the
owner, Anna. The young mom-to-be of twins
had put everything she had monetarily and
emotionally into a lifelong dream of owning
her own hair salon.
We talked like we were long-lost BFFs, and
I shared with her the idea of promoting her
new business in our next magazine. It has the
largest distribution in the area, reaching more
than 50,000 households.
She loved the idea but said that at the
moment, her money was all tied up in running
her new salon. She just couldnt afford
to advertise. As Anna told me her story, I
recognized that disappointed look in her eyes.
It was the same look I had 15 years ago when
I was in Brazil struggling to advertise my own
new business. I am all too familiar with that
heavy feeling of having so much invested in a
Cris Linnares | Founder and President

cris@womensimpact.com
dream, only to realize theres not enough left to

promote it to the rest of the world.
After leaving the salon that day, I couldnt
stop thinking about Anna and how Womens
Impact could in some way support her
business. My motivation burned brighter
as I started talking to other women-owned
businesses and realized that Anna wasnt alone.
When it comes to first-year funding, women
receive 80 percent less capital than men,
according to the Women-Owned Businesses
Report.
That information spurred me to ask our
Womens Impact team to brainstorm ideas
of how we could use our resources to
empower women-owned businesses. After
several meetings, many cups of coffee and an
unlimited amount of gluten-free cookies, 3P
Advertising purpose, profit and prosperity
was born!
The idea is simple but powerful. Socially
conscious businesses sponsor a Community
Connection page and donate a portion of their
ad space to other women-owned businesses. In
return, the sponsored businesses are asked to
give back to the community, according to their
current capacity, by supporting a person in
need or a nonprofit of their choice.
This initiative is a pioneer in the advertising
world by championing the pay-it-forward
mindset and creates a cycle of giving back.
What I love most about 3P Advertising is
that it totally aligns with our mission. When it
comes to empowering women, we believe there
is no I helping you, but we supporting

each other.
Our new logo reflects this mission. It is two
letters coming together, piece by piece, to
remind us that in order to create new art, new
dreams, new beginnings, we must join forces.
We must be brave enough to ask and fearless
enough to give.
I believe we are entering a new era. Our
world is loudly calling us to choose compassion
over competition, power over pity and love
over fear.
In this new era, I invite you to join forces
with us.
Its time to add the I in the we.
Because when I feel empowered, we are
stronger.
WI find strength in our vulnerability.
WI create dance from our falls.
WI can make a mosaic out of broken pieces.
WI dont waste time trying to be more.
More beautiful or more powerful.
Because adjectives cant describe us.
WI turn adjectives into verbs.
WI take action!
WI connect, empower, make an impact.
WI are here not to show to the world who
WI can be.
WI are here to reveal who WI already are.
WI are beauty.
WI are power.
WI are love.
WI are Womens Impact.
Welcome to our community!
Proudly Sponsors
CC CONNECTION
Elements Fitness for Women is a place designed for every
woman! In a supportive comfortable (and really nice)
place, we are able to help women achieve their goals.
We have everything women need to live a life filled with
health and wellness.
Family Voices of ND is a statewide, grassroots network of families,

friends and professionals that are advocates for health care
services for all children and youth with special health care needs
and or disabilities. Our role is to assure that families receive
informational and emotional support in caring for their child.
Thank you to our sponsor; you have inspired us to pay it

forward. Mention this ad and your first class in our group
studio or elements inner focus studio is free.
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We give back by assisting families 1:1 through learned experiences

and providing additional time and support to families. We do
presentations for any awareness that needs to be done in our
community and are open to assisting in any way that we can.
A my Walla ch (Ow n e r)
(701) 356- 5200
f a rgo. e le me n t sf orw ome n .co m
Sanford Womens proudly supports the

women in our community as they strive to
reach their goals - in health and in life.
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SANFORD WOMENS PROUDLY SUPPO RTS EMPOWERING BUSINESSES BY SPONSORING THIS PAGE.
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COMMUNITY
Its time to add the I in the we.

Because when I feel empowered, we are stronger.
WI
find strength in our vulnerability.
WI
create dance from our falls.
WI
can make a mosaic out of broken pieces.
WI
dont waste time trying to be more.

More beautiful or more powerful,
because adjectives cant describe us.
WI
turn adjectives into verbs.
WI
take action!
WI
connect, empower, make an impact.
WI
are here not to show to the world

who we can be.
WI
are here to reveal who we already are.
WI
are beauty.
WI
are power.
WI
are love.
WI
are Womens Impact.
WI NT E R 2015
Womens Impact magazine is a free, bi-annual
publication distributed by Forum Communications Co.
The magazines mission is to inspire women in the Red
River Valley through our exclusive content and support
for the nonprofit arm of our organization. Through
Womens Impacts online community, magazine and
events, we work to create opportunities for women
to get connected, find empowerment and make an
impact in each others lives and the world.
PUBLISHER
KOTOTAMA PUBLISHING
PRESIDENT / FOUNDER
CRIS LINNARES
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
HEIDI SHAFFER
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
ADAM ZAVALNEY
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
APRIL KNUTSON
COPY EDITING
MEREDITH HOLT
PHOTOGRAPHY
CARRIE SNYDER
KENSIE WALLNER
ERIC HYLDEN
SPECIAL THANKS TO
CIRCULATION
SALES MANAGER
ADVERTISING ASSISTANT
BILL MARCIL JR.

ROZ RANDORF
ALLISON MOLSTRE
L AURELLEE LOFTSGARD
JACLYN HOLLANDS
BONNIE COOK
FORUM COMMUNICATIONS CO.
VANESSA BOURGEOIS
EMMA HEATON
When We Give,
We Change the World.
Nearly half of our employees at Bell State
Bank & Trust are women. They will donate
hundreds of thousands of dollars not to
mention professional clothing, Christmas toys,
backpacks of food and their volunteer time
to charitable causes this year, helping lead the
communitys philanthropic giving.
They are part of the widening ripple of giving
at Bell. Through our Pay It Forward program,
employees and friends in the community have
given more than $6 million to date to help
individuals, families and organizations. Their
stories inspire others to pay it forward as well.
How will you pay it forward today?
Advertising: (701) 451-5736

info@womensimpact.com
www.womensimpact.com
Womens Impact magazine
is printed bi-annually by
Forum Communications Printing
and circulated to 50,000 households
in Fargo and Grand Forks, N.D.
Womens Impact magazine
Kototama Publishing
101 5th St. N.
Fargo, ND 58102
bellbanks.com | Member FDIC
8906
E D IT OR S L E T T E R
Heidi Shaffer | Editor-in-Chief
W EATHERING W INTER W ELL
orn in Minnesota and raised in

North Dakota, Ive spent my entire
life in the Upper Midwest. Yet
without fail, I dread each brutal
winter. When January rolls around and all
my sweaters, scarves and trusty winter boots
cant block out the cold, I repeatedly ask my
husband, Why do we still live here?
Regardless of the temperature, I love living
here, even if I forget it sometimes. So this year
will be different. Im taking a new path to
embracing the cold and all its fury, and I invite
you to join me.
Remember the good times.
This time of year, we gather with family and

friends to make holiday memories. The snow
still seems magical, and the cold feels like a
good reason to wear that fantastic new coat.
When those holiday recollections fade, its
the hope that spring (maybe even three whole
weeks of it) and summer are right around the
corner that seems to be the only thing that gets
me through February and March and, who
are we kidding April.
One of my favorite summer memories
from this year took place on a perfect early
September evening on a picturesque Minnesota

farm. Friends and strangers gathered for a
harvest dinner at Probstfield Farm, where a
number of local chefs had prepared a feast in
the grass below the trees. Before the delicious,
locally grown courses began arriving, I
introduced myself to Molly Yeh, an adorable
foodie who had just moved from Brooklyn
to Minnesota and whom Id gotten to know
fan-girl style via Instagram (as just one of her
28,000 followers).
Find someone who inspires

you.
At just 25, Molly, the uber-popular blogger

of My Name is Yeh, is a rising star in the
food world. According to Anna Larson, who
interviewed Molly for this issue, our cover girl
turns out to be just as real and down-to-earth
as her food. Molly serves as a true inspiration
to any woman who is pursuing her passion
in hopes of turning it into a career. And the
challah, hummus and Israeli salad she served
us while sitting in the yard of Minnesotas
oldest farmstead will warm me all winter.
Take care of yourself.
If those memories fade in a moment of

weakness (Oh hello, February), weve included
a winter survival guide in this issue. This stepby-step manual addresses what we can do for
mind, body and soul during those long, dark
days to stay active and bright.
Surround yourself with beauty.
As you page through this issue, I hope youll

take notice of our new design and approach
to bringing you the same great stories as
past Womens Impact magazines. The look is
meant to be inspiring and uplifting to reflect
the content and women in each issue of the
magazine.
Cheers to a happy, healthy winter.
H e i d i S h a f f e r is a writer, editor, cat
lover, adventure seeker, Womens Impact
volunteer and wife. Shaffer, a graduate of
Minnesota State University Moorhead, lives
in Fargo, N.D., and works as features editor
at The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead. Follow
her on Twitter @heidishaffer and Instagram
@hreisenauer.
CONTRIBUTORS
CONTRIBUTORS
Tra c y B rig g s lives in Moorhead,
Minn., with her husband, Mark,
their two fabulous daughters and
equally fabulous dog. She writes
and appears in the lifestyle video
and column The Great Indoors and
the enter tainment repor t Star Watch
for Forum Communications Co. A
graduate of the University of Nor th
Dakota and Nor th Dakota State
University, you can follow her on
Twitter @tracymbriggsj.
Read her Beautiful Women stor y
on Page 57.
M e re d ith H o lt is a writer, editor

and page designer for The Forum
of Fargo-Moorhead. She lives in
Fargo, N.D., with her husband and
two cats. Follow her on Twitter and
Instagram @FargoMere.
Read her Winter wellness stor y on
Page 27.
M e rrie S u e H o lta n is a
communication and journalism
instructor at Minnesota State University
Moorhead. She has a Master of Ar ts
in creative writing from MSUM and
works as a freelance writer. Holtan
teaches baton twirling at the YMCA
of Cass Clay and has helped train
three national champions.
Read her B is for Betty stor y on
Page 42.
A p ril K n u ts o n is a writer, lover of

literature, Womens Impact volunteer
and adventure seeker. As a recent
graduate of Minnesota State
University Moorhead, she hopes
to continue to pursue her only true
love: stor ytelling. Follow her on Twitter
@aprileleanor and on Instagram @
aprilknutson.
Read her Seeing the unseen stor y
on Page 36.
A n n a G . La r s o n is a writer who
enjoys travel, cats, fashion, food
and all things Midwestern. Larson
graduated from Nor th Dakota State
University and lives in Fargo, N.D.,
where she works as a features writer
at The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead.
Follow her on Twitter and Instagram
@msannagrace.
Read her Her name is Yeh! stor y on
Page 18.
Roxane Beauclair Salonen
considers herself a connoisseur of
fine coffee, which she consumes
in frequent quantities as a wife and
mother of five lively children. In
between sips, she works in Fargo as
an award-winning childrens author
and freelance writer, speaker and
occasional radio host. Her column,
Living Faith, appears regularly in
The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead.
Follow her additional ramblings on
her blog, Peace Garden Writer, or
on Twitter @peacegardenmama.
Read her Power of Perseverance
stor y on Page 46.
C a r r i e S n y d e r , the photo editor of
Womens Impact magazine, works
as a full-time photographer for The
Forum of Fargo-Moorhead. She
grew up in Fargo and attended
Minnesota State University Moorhead
for print and photojournalism. She
is passionate about photography,
spor ts, the outdoors and baking.
K i r s t e n S t r o m s o d t is an editor,
hockey fan, Womens Impact
volunteer and wife. Stromsodt, a
University of Nor th Dakota graduate,
lives in Fargo, N.D., and is the
deputy editor of The Forum of FargoMoorhead. Follow her on Twitter
@FargoNewsroom.
Read her stor y Connect. Learn.
Grow stor y on Page 14.
H e i d i Te t z m a n Ro e p ke is the
assistant features editor at The Forum
of Fargo-Moorhead. She lives in
Moorhead, Minn., with her husband,
Dave. Follow her on Twitter
@heidiandrea and Instagram
@heidi.andrea.
Read her stor y Homework DIY stor y
on Page 48.
11
WOMENS IMPACT
EVENTS
This year, weve inspired each other,
danced together and raised a glass to
our individual goals through Womens
Impact events.
Events are one of the three main pillars
of the Womens Impact organization.
Through our magazine, we inspire;
through our website, we connect; and
through our events, we combine the two
in a social atmosphere that celebrates
our unique assets and needs.
Each month, women in our area are
invited to gather for an Empower Hour
to hear inspiring messages, meet new
people, catch up with old friends and

celebrate each other. Attendees have
the opportunity to promote their business
or cause during the Empowering Open
Mic. Join us for our upcoming Empower
Hours, starting at 5:30 p.m. the first
Tuesday of every month.
This summer, we introduced our
ROAR campaign and sent two women
to the Aug. 23 Katy Perry concert at
the Fargodome. Now, our community
is expanding. Sofia Vargas received a
ride to her new job by Womens Impact
volunteer Jessica Jasperson.
Photos by
Kensie Wallner
Womens ImpactI hosted its first
Impact Par ty, a fun-filled night
dedicated to furthering the mission of
Womens Impact, by empowering a
woman according to her needs. The late
summer garden party held at volunteer
Roz Randorf s Moorhead, Minn., home
focused on fundraising in order to
launch new programs while maintaining
the monthly free events, like Empower
Hour.
Be sure to experience the power of
connection yourself at the next WI event.
Top left: Womens Impact volunteer Jami Dean and Miss North Dakota 2014 Jacky Arness share a laugh in Stokers Basement at the Hotel Donaldson.
Top right: Empower Hours connection table provides a space for women to share their business or cause.
Bottom left: Delectable desserts and appetizers are served at Novembers Empower Hour.
Bottom right: Womens Impact volunteer Vanessa Bourgeois accepts support from the Womens Impact community.
WOMENS IMPACT EVENTS
Left: Nicole Welle, author and mom, motivates women to seek their true callings at Empower Hour.
Top right: Stacey Gabbert, a first-time attendee to a Womens Impact event, listens to the Nicole Welles message.
Bottom right: Deb Dawson, right, experiences the power of connection at Empower Hour.
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INFO@HEALTHPROSFARGO.COM
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C o n n ec t. L e ar n. Gr ow.
35 U nde r 35 program sh apes female lead ers
FARGO, N.D.
onnect. Learn. Grow.
Three simple words make all
the difference each year for 35
young women.
The United Ways 35 Under 35 Womens
Leadership Program, now in its seventh year,
aims to inspire and lift up women by focusing
on those three tenents.
This program is focused on developing a
network of women who are energized and
equipped to lead in many areas of their lives,
said Tiffany McShane, resource development
project manager at United Way of Cass-Clay
Not just professional development, but
personal development, too.
The program stretches over six months,
from January through June. Each monthly
session features local leaders speaking about
topics such as board leadership and conflict
management.
The future of our community is really bright
because of these emerging women leaders,
McShane said.
By Kirsten Stromsodt | Womens Impact contributor

Theyre so intelligent and so energizing. We
need to continue to tap into them.
The founding mothers of the program
include the YWCA, United Way, FargoMoorhead Area Foundation and a collection of
women leaders who recognized a need in the
community.
One of those leaders is Tonya Stende,
president of Dale Carnegie Training of North
Dakota.
Its a diverse group, a mix of for-profit and
nonprofit participants, Stende said, adding
that mix is part of the reason its so effective.
Its amazing to see how they are different
women from the time they walk in the door
from when they leave.
The application process is competitive, with
recently more than 100 applying for every
class, so 2013 graduate Kimberly Busch said
she did a happy dance when she learned she
was accepted.
Its more like a leprechaun shuffle, actually,
she said.
Busch, 32, now director of sales for TMI
Hospitality, was a customer service supervisor

at Wells Fargo at the time.
Not in a million years did I think anything
would take me away from that, she said.
Then Lauris Molbert, TMI chief executive
officer, spoke to the 35 Under 35 group. Busch
soon after arranged an informational interview
with Molbert, and after that meeting and a lot
of self-reflection, she decided to make a career
move.
Through the program, what I valued the
most was reflecting on my authentic passion.
What excites me and fills my bucket, said
Busch. A connection sparked that opportunity
at the right time.
Jill Staffne, Scheels All Sports human
resources leader, is a graduate of the first class.
She then volunteered for the program and now
serves on the United Way Womens Leadership
Council.
Staffne said part of what makes the program
special is the relationships the women form
with each other, often bonding over common
35 Under 35: Page 16
Participants in the 2014 United Way 35 Under 35 Womens Leadership Program listen to keynote speaker Tammy Miller of Border States Electric during a celebration and
reception June 5, 2014, at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. Dave Wallis / The Forum
SECTION NAME
Proudly Sponsors
CC CONNECTION
JODIE
HARVALA
COMPASSIONATE CHRISTIAN COUNSELING
When Energy moves, Freedom happens. That is my motto!

My work includes Psychic/Medium work, and also tools and
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for a big shift in life with the help of spirit in your healing work.
Empowering individuals, families, couples and organizations

to reach their highest potential. By providing an eclectic
range of counseling services, individuals of all ages are
propelled to pursue their destiny and purpose. Corporation
team building & diversity workshops also available.
The generosity of Fargo Marathon has inspired me to help

others by donating 10 Wonderment Oracle Decks to
Womens Impact.
The generosity of Fargo Marathon has inspired me to hep

others by providing free youth and womens support group
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Our goal and passion at Living Character is to teach children

they have a choice to live each day in a way that positively
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To empower women in our community, Nicole has a special

Pay What You Can offer available exclusively to readers
of Womens Impact Magazine. Contact her for details and
what you would like to pay to start living your dreams.
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In appreciation to our sponsor, a free notepad will be

included in purchases of $25 or more.
218- 205- 0610

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Nicole sees bright women using motherhood as a catalyst to

achieve their dreams. Her signature coaching style, Beautiful
& Blessed, helps women design a bold life around their
unique purpose.
Our Stick With Your Virtues! product line was created

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701. 306. 1 0 0 1
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COMMUNITY
For years, women have been a driving force behind the success of the Fargo
Marathon. Andsimilar to the mission statement of Womens Impact, we
strive to make a positive impact on lives, families and our entire community
through walking, running and overall health and fitness. We support Womens
Impact, and we look forward to seeing thousands more empowered women
participating in our events.
Mark Knutson
Director
Go Far Events / Fargo Marathon
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THE FARGOMARATHON PROUDLY SUPPORTS EMPOWERING BUSINESSES BY SPONSORING THIS PAGE.

WINTER 2015
Amanda Nygaard of Concordia College, left, Ashley Vangess of Titan Machinery and Hannah Sorenson of Thrivent Financial visit June 6, 2013, during the United Ways 35 under
35 Womens leadership Program at the North Dakota State University Alumni Center. David Samson / The Forum
35 Under 35: From Page 14

experiences and interests.
The group of women becomes more and more
close-knit every year, Staffne said.
The program reaches beyond more than just
personal and professional development, McShane
said. A large part of the program focuses on how its
participants can share their talents to pay it forward.
These women have incredible energy and skills,
and we want to give them opportunities to be engaged
in their community, beyond the program, she said.
Busch now sits on the United Ways Community
Investment Committee. She also has volunteered for
Habitat for Humanity, the Community Investment
Panel and many other causes.
Staffne volunteers for the 35 program, and says shes
now spent more time volunteering for the program
than she spent in it.
To be able to watch these women succeed and
grow, and then watch them get promoted and give
back to the community that inspires me and makes
me want to be a better leader, Stende said. It keeps
my tank full!
How to apply
Any woman in Cass or Clay counties age 35
and younger is welcome to apply. Selected
participants pay a $500 tuition cost. A limited
amount of partial scholarships are available
upon request.
For questions, please contact
Tiffany McShane at United Way of Cass-Clay
at tmcshane@unitedwaycassclay.org.
Left: Kimberly Busch of Wells Fargo gives a fist pump to the crowd while speaking during the United Ways 35 under 35 Womens leadership Program at the North Dakota State
University Alumni Center. Right: Awards are presented to each of the 35 Under 35 graduating classes. Photos by David Samson / The Forum
SECTION NAME
HER NAME IS
YEH!
Food bl o g g e r M ol l y Yeh tak es h er su ccess
from Mi nne sota fa rm to in tern ation al stage
By Anna G. Larson | Womens Impact contributor
WINTER 2015
Molly Yeh photographs a chocolate cake with tahani frosting and halva that shes
preparing for her food blog. Photo by Eric Hylden/Grand Forks Herald
19
EAST GRAND FORKS, Minn.

n between challah making and wedding
planning, Molly Yeh talked lefse last
month with the New York Times.
Sam Sifton, the international editor
for the Times, juggled potatoes on Yehs East
Grand Forks farm and helped her cook venison.
They ate the game and lefse in Yehs kitchen
with Tater Tot hotdish, a camera crew and a
sprinkling of Yehs future in-laws.
It was a day the 25-year-old author of
food and lifestyle blog My Name is Yeh
(pronounced yay) wanted to capture and
put in a snow globe.
Since moving to Minnesota in 2013 from
New York City with her fifth-generation East
Grand Forks farmer fianc, Nick Hagen, Yehs
grown her blog into a full-time career that
continues to expand.
In the last few months, she traveled to the Big
Apple for a Jewish food and history program,

appeared on news segments in Chicago and
Minneapolis on behalf of Jennie-O Turkey, and
worked on collaborations with retailers West
Elm and Urban Outfitters.
All on top of maintaining her popular blog,
where she posts recipes and photos narrated by
her humorous, honest voice.
In a post from November, she writes: Today
I finally unpacked from my New York trip.
I found: Smashed halvah (Tahini candy),
socks I assumed were eaten by the washing
machine, a T-shirt from Sammys Roumanian
that I promptly gave to Eggboy (Hagen) and a
whole bunch of clothes that should have been
hanging up for the past two weeks. Oops! So
thats where Im at.
Yehs relaxed, genuine approach to food
has earned her almost 28,000 Instagram
followers and an ever-growing number of
blog readers. Shes also a freelance writer and

recipe developer for Betty Crocker, Food52,
The Jewish Daily Forward and Food & Wine
magazine. Shes also written for publications
like Kinfolk, Wolftree, Modern Farmer and the
Juilliard Journal.
Earlier this year, My Name is Yeh was
recognized as one of the top food blogs when
it was a finalist for Saveur Magazines Fifth
Annual Best Food Blog Awards.
Yeh shies away from recognition, saying that
her blogs popularity is the result of her passion
for food and her interaction with readers and
other bloggers.
One thing about blogging that might not
necessarily be as obvious from the outside is
that its really a two-way street. Its not just you
putting your work on the Internet for others
to come and see and admire, she says. Its
you gaining inspiration from others work and
interacting with them and really forming these

bonds because people are sharing their lives
with you, and youre sharing your life with
them.
Cathryn Erbele, of Fargo, became friends
with Yeh shortly after she moved to Minnesota
and says the bloggers fun, warm personality
translates to real life, too.
This girl is a powerhouse, but shes just so
unbelievably down-to-earth and easy to talk
to, Erbele says.
Earlier in the day, Erbele was texting Yeh
about making a homemade version of cookie
dough rolls with designs in the middle. Yeh, of
course, was excited to figure out a recipe and
invited her friend to bake.
Shes so willing to welcome people and say,
Hey, we should do this, Erbele says. Shes
interested in others and our local farm culture,
and shes so warm.
Although her blog started in New York, Yehs

posts have developed a Midwestern farm life
feel. Shes wearing overalls and snow boots and
cooking with her friends fresh chicken eggs
instead of eating at upscale restaurants and
shopping at Barneys New York.
And she wouldnt have it any other way.
We chatted with Yeh on a chilly November
morning when she was baking her umpteenth
loaf of challah (Jewish egg bread) and excitedly
anticipating her second winter in Minnesota.
Whatre some of your favorite

comfor t foods?
I love root vegetables, Brussels sprouts and

winter foods like soup. Hearty foods really fill
you up more, and I love having an excuse to
dig into hearty foods in the winter.
My very favorite comfort food is my moms
mac n cheese, hands down. I feel like a kid for
saying this, but I also love salami sandwiches.

I grill the bread first in butter, and then I salt
it on both sides vigorously. Sometimes if Im
trying to be a little healthy, Ill spread some
avocado on it. But normally its straight-up
bread and butter and salami.
It seems like youve eased into life

in Minnesota so well and made
friends quickly. Are you feeling like
this is your home?
Absolutely, without a doubt.

Ive met a lot of friends through the blog.
People in Grand Forks will email me because
theyve seen my blog on Pinterest or whatever,
and we become really good friends over that.
In New York, I dont think I wouldve been
able to be this new girl in town and show up to
a party or introduce myself to someone at a bar.
I think it wouldve been so awkward. This was
Molly Yeh: Page 25
Molly Yeh puts the finishing touches on a chocolate cake with tahani frosting and halva that shes preparing for her food blog. Photo by Eric Hylden / Grand Forks Herald
One thing about blogging that might not

necessarily be as obvious from the outside is
that its really a two-way street. Its not just you
putting your work on the Internet for others
to come and see and admire, she says. Its
you gaining inspiration from others work and
interacting with them and really forming these
bonds because people are sharing their lives with
you, and youre sharing your life with them.
Molly Yeh, food blogger
SECTION NAME
J O I N W O M E N S I M PA C T F E A R L E S S C O M M U N I T Y
F I R S T T U E S DAY O F E V E R Y M O N T H
THE HOTEL DONALDSON
STOKERS BASEMENT
1 0 1 B R O A D WA Y N | F A R G O , N D
G E T C O N N E C T E D , B E E M P O W E R E D , M A K E A N I M PA C T.
W W W. W O M E N S I M PA C T. C O M
001168394r1
M olly Yeh s Smoky Bacon Mac n Cheese
Ingre di e nt s
12 ounces applewood smoked bacon
pound dried medium shells
cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (skim, 2 percent or whole)
12 ounces smoked Gouda, chopped
4 ounces pepper jack, chopped
1 ounce Parmesan, grated
1 teaspoon paprika
teaspoon cayenne pepper
teaspoon thyme
teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
cup panko breadcrumbs
D i r ect i o n s
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare pasta according

to the directions on the box but remove it from heat one
minute early. Strain and rinse with cold water.
Cook bacon on the stove until crispy. Chop and set
it aside, reserving 4 tablespoons of bacon fat from
the pan. Transfer the fat to a large saucepan set over
medium heat and add the flour, whisking constantly until
combined. Continue whisking and add the milk.
Once the milk becomes thick, add the Gouda, pepper
jack cheese and all but 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan.
When the cheese melts, add the seasonings.
Fold in the shells and the bacon, and transfer to a
greased 8-inch-square casserole dish.
Top with panko bread crumbs, a pinch of salt, a few
turns of pepper and the remaining 2 tablespoons of
Parmesan. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is browned.
Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Photo by Carrie Snyder
Molly Yeh tweaked her favorite comfort food, her moms mac n cheese,
to include bacon, a bacon roux and smoky Gouda cheese.
Molly Yeh: From Page 21

not something I intended to happen, but Im so
happy that it did.
Its a nice bond to be from this small
community.
Whats your favorite winter activity?
Staying inside and baking of course, all day. I

can call it work, luckily.
Did you ever think youd be

noticed for doing something you
love?
That was never the goal. The goal was always

just to do what I love and to do as best a job
as I can.
I feel that Im lucky to say that if I wasnt
getting paid for my blog, if this wasnt my job,
Id be doing it anyway. Its what I really love to
do, and Im happy that Im able to do it and not
lose money on it.
When I moved out here, that was sort of the
turning point when suddenly I wasnt paying
my entire paycheck for rent like I was in New

York. The quieter, more relaxed style of life here
has really helped me.
Being here and having the full support of my
fianc and then not really having that financial
pressure as much as there is in New York was a
huge thing because I was really able to focus on
it and grow it from the beginning.
The rubber spatula, for licking the cake batter

out of the bowl.
Where is your favorite place in the

world?
Anywhere that includes my favorite humans
and schnitzel and mac n cheese and also
somewhere thats snowy and wintry and cozy.
If you could be any food, what you

would be and why?
If you could teach people how to

make three things in the kitchen,
what would you choose?
How much challah do you think

youve made in your life?
Whats the best advice youve ever

received/read?
Funfetti cake, because I just want to be

colorful and sprinkly and make people happy.
I have made enough challah to fill an

Olympic-sized swimming pool. How cool would
that be, a pool filled with challah?
Cake, dumplings and cake again.
The grass is greenest where you grow it!
Whats your most valuable utensil

or ingredient in the kitchen?
A smile increases
your face value!
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SECTION NAME
FOUNDERS
SECTION NAME
LETTER
WINTER
WELLNESS
How to stay mentally, emotionally and physically healthy during the long, cold months of winter
By Meredith Holt | Womens Impact contributor | Illustration by Troy Becker
27
SECTION NAME
heres something magical

about the first snowfall of the
season. The sparkly flakes
spiral gently down, inspiring
cookie-baking and hot cocoa-drinking.
But by the time the gifts and decorations
have been put away and were heading
into our fourth, fifth month of brutal
winter weather, its easy to give in to the
desire to stay in, hibernate and carb-load.
Though comforting, too much isolating
and overeating isnt good for us.
For some people, the onset of winter,
especially in the Upper Midwest, can be
especially hard.
An estimated 10 million Americans have
seasonal affective disorder. More may have
mild SAD. Its more common in women
than in men, and its treated similarly to
depression.
The good news is, whether you have
SAD or a normal case of the winter blues,
theres something you can do about it.
Heres a collection of tips to help you
stay healthy during winter:
GET A FLU SHOT.
Dr. Donald Gullicks, a womens

physician with Sanford Health in Fargo,
says his first piece of advice is to get a flu

shot.
I think that is the No. 1 thing that
affects peoples health and how they feel
going into the winter, he says.
EAT A WELLBAL ANCED DIET.
Proper nutrition can give you mental

clarity, improve your mood and give you
an energy boost, all of which become
more important during winter.
Here are some guidelines to keep in
mind:
Eat every three to four hours to
help maintain your blood sugar and
metabolism.
Skipping meals to try to make up for a
big holiday or party meal is a bad idea,
says Jenny Bednar, a licensed registered
dietitian with Essentia Health in Fargo.
Watch your portions. Its OK to eat
your favorite holiday foods, but keep an
eye on how much of them you eat.
Prepare for parties with these tricks:
Before a get-together, eat a protein-filled
snack. Use smaller plates. Fill up on water
and veggies. Dont linger near the buffet.
Limit foods that are high in
carbohydrates, sugar and fat.
Load up on fruits and vegetables.

Bednar recommends eating 5 cups of
fruits and vegetables a day.
A variety of colors is always the best,
because each color has its own nutrients,
she says.
Berries are high in antioxidants, so
throw some blueberries and raspberries
on your oatmeal or in a smoothie.
Get enough vitamin D. Bednar says
its hard to get enough vitamin D from
our food, so discuss taking a supplement
with your doctor.
I think everybody in this area of the
country is deficient in it, she adds.
Eat foods containing vitamin B-12 and
folic acid, which may fight symptoms of
depression.
Folic acid is found in leafy greens and
beans, while B-12 is found in meats, fish
and dairy products. Spinach, eggs and
salmon are good sources of both.
Limit caffeine and alcohol use.
Caffeine can increase anxiety, alcohol is a
depressant, and both can stimulate your
appetite.
Bednar advises women to drink no more
than one alcoholic beverage a day and
no more than two cups of coffee (or the
equivalent) a day.
FOUNDERS
SECTION NAME
LETTER
DRINK PLENTY
OF WATER.
You dont necessarily need to drink more

water during winter, but you do need
more reminders to drink it, Bednar says.
Were not out in the hot sun, were not
sweating or getting thirsty, so I think its
harder to remember to drink the water
during the winter, she says.
DONT LET THE

WEATHER PREVENT
YOU FROM
EXERCISING.
Exercising raises your serotonin and
endorphin levels, your brains happy

chemicals. Youll get even more of a boost
if you do it in the sun or near a window.
If its too cold to walk, run or bike, or the
roads are too bad to go to the gym, pop in
an exercise DVD or play Wii Fit with the
kids.
Joanne Jandro, a mental health
counselor with The Village Family Service
Center in Fargo, says any physical activity
will help.
The goal is to be active as much as
possible, even if its only a little bit. Keep
your expectations reasonable, she says.
Gullicks says itll be easier to stick to an
exercise routine throughout the winter if
you establish it now, while the weathers
still nice.
TRY A LIGHT BOX.
Light-therapy boxes are especially

effective for SAD sufferers.
There is a connection between mental
health and light exposure, Jandro says.
GET ENOUGH SLEEP.
For most people, getting enough

sleep isnt a problem during winter. The
shorter, darker days naturally make us
want to sleep more. The key word here
is enough, not too much, because
oversleeping can be a symptom of SAD or
depression.
Gullicks says most adults know how
much sleep their bodies need, so listen
Winter: Page 30
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Music by Tricia Gibbons Reynolds
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SECTION NAME
Winter: From Page 28
to your body and try to stay close to your

sleep schedule on weekends and days off
from work.
DONT ISOL ATE.
Jandro tells clients to fight the desire to

stay in and isolate during winter.
Youll have to force it at first, but youll
feel better if you make yourself get out.
Go for a short walk. People-watch at the
mall. Go to a movie. Meet a girlfriend for
coffee.
When youre acting in your best
interest, it spurs positive thinking, she
says.
Speaking of positivity:
FOCUS ON THE
POSITIVE.
Its easy to get caught up in common

winter complaints, but fixating on them
doesnt do any good.
Your thoughts and your behavior
influence your emotions, so if you really
have a negative attitude about winter, that
is going to permeate everything, Jandro

says.
Ask yourself, What do I like about
winter? What do I have to look forward
to?
You dont have to think, I love winter,
but you do have to come to the reality
that this is where youre at, and, so,
wouldnt it make more sense to find ways
to survive it in a positive way? Jandro
says.
KEEP A JOURNAL.
Jandro keeps a stack of notebooks in

her office to give to clients to track their
thoughts and feelings.
A lot of people dont recognize what
theyre feeling, so being aware of it and
bringing it to your conscious allows you
to take ownership of it and address it,
she says.
The simple act of writing down what
youre grateful for, for example, can help
change your point of view.
There are so many good things that

happen throughout the day, but were
really good at focusing on the negative,
she says.
TRY SOMETHING NEW.
Break up your routine with a new class,

a new project or a new goal.
SEEK PROFESSIONAL
HELP IF YOU NEED IT.
If you suffer from SAD or depression,

you may need an adjustment in
medication if youre taking it, or extra
counseling sessions to make it till spring.
Sometimes one or two sessions can
make a world of difference, Jandro says.
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SOMETIMES THE BEST GIFT

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The songs on my album are all Threads in my Tapestry; pieces of

what have woven together to form the essence of my heart and
being-to help me know what love really is. I hope my listeners will
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HEART OF GOLD
Ive been painting for 25 years as a form of meditation and
relaxation. I love color and texture. I visit art galleries, exhibits
and museums wherever I am in the world. I enjoy studying the
techniques of the Masters and taking inspiration from their
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my living through my art.
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Reddometta is a simple practice: we connect mindful shoppers to local artisans

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SECTION NAME
Just say yes,

and deal
with it later
Deb Jenkins follows passions
wherever they take her
By April Knutson | Womens Impact contributor
As founder of the Celebration of Women and Their Music, Deb Jenkins has had a big impact on
local female musicians. She is also a nurse, singer, author, chef, caterer and small-business
owner. Darren Gibbins / The Forum
Deb Jenkins mixes up a batch of her Jalapeno Pesto at her home in north Fargo. David Samson / The Forum
FARGO, N.D.
n the Fargo-Moorhead area, its hard to
find someone who doesnt know about
Deb Jenkins and her famous Texas Chips
or Jalapeno Pesto Spread.
In addition to starting her own catering
company, Deb has delved into a variety of
different avocations, including being a wife,
mother, singer, writer and founding the annual
Celebration of Women and Their Music and the
Womens Sustainability Retreat.
Deb, who moved to Fargo-Moorhead in
1976, exudes a warm, inviting attitude. Its
easy to be wowed by her accomplishments
while you try to figure out her secret. How does
she pursue each of her projects so earnestly?

Believe it or not, Im very shy. So I dont talk
about things I want do because if people hear
what I want to do, then Ill have to do it, she
says, adding that her motivation instead comes
from the goals she holds in her heart.
In college, Deb began to connect with women
like herself. She saw how others shielded their
passions. When she was diagnosed 21 years
ago with breast cancer, Deb began to really look
at her life to decide what she wanted to do.
Radiation was horrible for me. I cant
explain how tired I was. I remember I played at
Trollwood (Performing Arts School) when it was
in north Fargo, and when I got my labs back
that day, I didnt even have a white blood cell

count. I dont know how I did it, she says.
Perhaps, Debs just say yes and deal with
it later mentality gradually formed despite
her reticence while growing up. Her father
was in the military, and her family frequently
moved. They made their home in California
and Michigan, and on military bases in Japan
and Guam.
Guam really changed me. When I went to
school there, native Guamanians would call
us statesiders. Kids would bring machetes to
school, and we would have bomb scares almost
every other day, she says.
Deb eventually moved back to the continental
I dont remember who said this, but

someone recently called me a local
celebrity. I couldnt disagree more with
that statement. We are all celebrities. You
can do things that I cant do, but I can also
do things that you cannot.
Deb Jenkins
United States and observed a different daily

drama while in high school.
I remember there was student council
election and they were debating about the dress
code. I couldnt believe it! This is what kids
worried about here, she says.
Traveling ingrained in Deb a resilience that
radiates off her. Even decades after dealing with
a cancer scare, an abusive relationship and
career uncertainty, Deb still enjoys overcoming
obstacles as she remains dedicated to her

goals. Although she still has a hard time with
compliments.
I dont remember who said this, but
someone recently called me a local celebrity. I
couldnt disagree more with that statement. We
are all celebrities. You can do things that I cant
do, but I can also do things that you cannot,
she says.
Carrie Snyder / The Forum
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#WIGRAM
S E E I N G THE
UNSEEN
Photographer and advocate for sex-trafficking victims #WIgrams her most memorable moments
FARGO, N.D.
anya Kay has been described as an
adventure seeker by friends. As
co-founder of Unseen Ministries,
a Fargo, N.D.-based nonprofit that
helps organizations worldwide spread the word
about sex trafficking, Tanya regularly travels to
places like the Philippines and South Korea.
We followed up with the 27-year-old owner of
Tanyakay Photography on a recent trip through
Fargo as she continues to capture stories
through her viewfinder.
Ministries (@Unseen), Yobel International (@

yobelintl), National Geographic (@Natgeo), and
the beautiful and beloved (@beautifulandbeloved).
What do you love most about social media?
I love the power the to bring change, the ability
to bring awareness and advocacy to issues that
otherwise wouldve gone unseen.
Is there anything you dislike about social
media?
I would say the challenge with social media is
maintaining that authenticity, learning to be present
where you are and not being sucked into the blinking
screen.
When did you discover your passion for
photography?
It was my sophomore year in college at Minnesota
State University Moorhead in an intro to
photography class. I was taking it just because it
fulfilled a requirement. I didnt think I would fall in
love with photography, but my passion was really
awakened.
Describe the first camera you owned.
It was my moms 20-year-old Canon film camera.
After the photography class, I grew more interested in
owning a more up-to-date camera.
Whos your favorite photographer?

When I was first in college, I was really inspired by
Benjamin Edwards and his work.
What have you been up to since moving to
Colorado Springs this year?
I have been working with a variety of organizations
to empower other artists, businesses and nonprofits
to use their gifts to inspire social change. Ive trained
a few artists to work with Unseen, along with some
commercial work.
Whats next for Unseen Ministries?
Unseen just returned from Thailand. They worked
with groups that empowered women and girls who
were victims of sex exploitation.
What strengthens your perseverance?
I would say that continually being reminded of what
Im fighting for, never settling for less than who Im
called to be, and keeping God at the center of who I
am helps me to persevere.
Yes t er d a y, I w a s hi ki ng i n sho r t s.
To d a y, I ne e d t o buy a sho ve l .
P C : @ l o ve r o o t sp ho t o. No ve m b e r 2014
Pr eppin g for my moon n ig h t h ike with

@k atyreaka an d @misssviolet Mission
:: Mt. Elber t (14,433 f t) h ig h est
peak in th e Rocky Mou n tain ran g e.
S eptember 2014
Celebration s are th e best w h e n d o n e

tog eth er. Th an kfu l my roomie w a s a b le
to r u n to Vail with me th is we e k e n d .
October 2014
Fi r s t s t o p af t e r t he a i r p o r t , Pur pl e
D o o r c o f fe e . The y p r o vi d e j o b
t r a i n i n g , m ent o r shi p and c o m m uni t y
t o h o m e l e s s y o ut h a nd y o ung ad ul t s
w or ki n g t o e xi t l i f e o n t he st r e e t s.
J ul y 2014
At 7am I was running around memorial

park unable to contain my excitement
from the dozens of colorful hot air
balloons soaring above me. August 2014
S an d. Water. N ew Frien d s .
S an Fran, I like you . Ju ly 2014
Hometown: Fergus Falls, Minn.

Favorite winter activity: Throwing snowballs at
my friends
During the the winter I cant live without:
Hot chocolate, family and snow angels
Hidden passion: To inspire others to bring change
through their gifts.
Guilty pleasure: chocolate and Korean dramas.
If you havent watch a Korean drama online, you
must do so.
Favorite Instagram filter: I like #vscocam.
Favorite Instagrammers: I like following Unseen
Fo l l o w Tan ya o n i n st agr a m,
@ t an yak ayph o t o g r ap h y,
o r vi si t t an yak ayph o t o. c o m.
37
S p en t t h e d a y e at i ng BBQ ne xt t o a
w a t e r f a l l , ca n o e i ng o n a ba m bo o r af t ,
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b a l l r o o m s i ngi ng t o Ka t y Pe r r y, and
ge t t i n g t o kno w t he r e st o f
@ u n s ee n m i n s m e d i a t e a m . Phi l i p p i ne s,
y o u a r e b ea u t i f ul . #unse e np hi l i pp i ne s
# d a y w e l l sp e nt . J a nua r y 2014
My Filipin a frien d came to S eou l

t hi n kin g sh e wou ld pu rsu e h er sin g in g
career. Upon ar rival, h er passpor t
w as taken an d sh e was forced in to
prostitu tion. In 2010, I met h er at
an an ti-traffickin g sh elter an d sh e
b ecame on e of my dearest frien ds.
Ou r days were spen t g oin g to th e
p ark, th e zoo an d ex perien cin g th e
smallest th in g s Id n or mally take for
gr an ted. Ou r days were also spen t with
d i f f i cu lt con versation s abou t h er fu tu re,
f ears, an d u n an swerable qu estion s.
#st or ypor trait # Heisfaith fu l # mymatth ew
#releasean dtr u st. Febr u ar y 2014
Ive been waitin g so lon g to k is s

th ese sweet ch eeks. A mon th a f te r
Matth ew was bor n, h e h ad to le a v e
for th e Ph ilippin es du e to imm ig ra tio n
reg u lation s. Wh ile separated fro m h is
moth er, Matth ew was raised in p o o r
con dition s an d of ten n eg lecte d . Pra y e rs
were sen t n ig h tly by h is mot h e r to o n e
day see h er baby boy ag ain. Ma tth e w
is n ow 4 years old, reu n ited w ith h is
moth er in Korea, h as a lovi n g fa th e r
an d is on h is way to receiv e Ko re a n
citizen sh ip! # stor ypor trait # H e is fa ith fu l
# mymatth ew # mix edbabiesa re th e b e s t
# n otbiased. Febu rar y 2014
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hope for a new beginning and a future free from poverty
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D I F F E R E N T N E E D S,
SAME NETWORK
Three women find encouragement, help through Womens Impact
A l i s o n Pa ige
omen face obstacles

every day in their
personal and
professional lives.
Nikki Ensz, a single mother, tirelessly
searched for a safe and affordable home.
Amanda Lakeman didnt believe she was
qualified for a new job. She worked nights and
weekends, spending any additional time she
had with her daughter.
Alison Paige kept her passion for photography
hidden, thinking that her talents werent worth
any attention.
These three women came from diverse
backgrounds and led very different lives,
but they all found the key to empowerment
through Womens Impact.
Nikki learned about Womens Impact by
chance when she stumbled upon its Facebook
page.
I had liked Womens Impact on Facebook
because I had thought that I would be able to
help someone, Nikki said.
N i k k i E ns z
She attended several of the organizations

monthly Empower Hour events and connected
with Womens Impacts mission to connect
women and empower them, so they can
become a force for good in their lives, families
and communities.
At the time, Nikki was a single mother who
was still figuring out her next step in life.
She wanted to go back to school to study art
education but had more immediate concerns
than pursuing a degree.
After my lease ran out, I had nowhere to go.
I reached out to Womens Impact on Facebook.
Womens Impact posted and reached out to
other women on my behalf, Nikki said.
With the help of the Womens Impact
community, Nikki was able to find a new home
for herself and her daughter. Now Nikki wants
other women to know that they are not alone.
If I had to give advice to a woman like
myself, I would tell them to be brave, to call
out for help if they need it. Womens Impact is
like a sisterhood, Nikki said.
SO C I AL C O N N E C TI ON
Another single mom, Amanda, worked hard

to juggle her roles as a mom, student and jobseeker. When her mothers health worsened,
she decided to take a year off and focus on
helping her mom. She was working as a server
and bartender, which provided inconsistent
income that made it hard to budget for day care
and other necessities.
Amanda asked for help on the Womens
Impact website. Vanessa Bourgeois, a Womens
Impact volunteer, connected with Amanda and
brought her the diapers and wipes she needed
for her daughter. Amanda told Vanessa she was
looking for more consistent work.
Its really hard to find a job when you
almost have your degree but you dont quite
have it yet, Amanda said.
Vanessa kept in contact with Amanda,
inviting her to Womens Impact events and
sending her links to job openings she heard
about. Finally, Amanda felt like she should go
to one of the events.
I had so much anxiety about going to anything,

but Vanessa just kept inviting me on Facebook, so I
decided to go to Junes Empower Hour, Amanda said.
Amanda met Krista Ulrich at Empower Hour. Later
in the week, Krista had a friend who was looking for
an administrative assistant for her business, Prairie
Dog LLC. Krista gave her friend Amandas information.
Now Amanda works at Prairie Dog while she
pursues her degree in public relations and health
communication at North Dakota State University.
T HE A RT OF EMPOWERMENT
During Junes Empower Hour, Amanda gained the

supportive network she needed while the featured
artist, Alison, showed her photography for the very
first time.
Its a very humbling experience, and Im still
pinching myself that its happening, Alison said.
She sold five of her eight pieces that night. Before
that opportunity, Alison said she thought she only
did this for her mom, as she is a really big fan of my
stuff.
After the event, Alison felt empowered.
Womens Impact encourages me to get my work out
there, to be confident in my abilities,she said.
Nikki, Amanda and Alison all connected with what
they needed through Womens Impact. They heard
the mission of Womens Impact, and they were brave
enough to ask for help. Now they will be fearless
enough to give.
Am anda La k ema n
BIS
BETTY
FOR
Software engineer,
advocate shares
love of books,
home country
through literacy
program
By Merrie Sue Holtan
Womens Impact contributor
Betty Gronneberg serves on the board of directors for Ethiopia Reads, a nonprofit whose efforts include building schools and libraries
where there are none. Carrie Snyder / The Forum
Helping expand the gender role in

technology is my dream, she says. If we
can change one little girls mind to pursue
computer science, thats a big deal.
FARGO, N.D.
is for Betty. B is also for books. B is
for Betty who believes books and
software can change lives and the
world.
As a software engineering manager at
Intelligent InSites in Fargo, Betty Gronneberg
inspires young women to pursue a future in
technology. She also serves on the board of
directors for Ethiopia Reads, a nonprofit whose
efforts include building schools and libraries
where there are none.
I strongly believe education is a priceless
and timeless treasure, Betty says. Throughout
my life, a lot of people have helped me in
acquiring this treasure. It is only natural that I
give back.
Betty (short for Bethlehem) describes herself
as a lifelong bookworm. The youngest of six
children growing up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
she remembers the values instilled in her
hard work, strong faith and helping others in
need.
Her parents lived these values on a daily
basis. When her father received notice for
military deployment, her mom shouldered
the task of raising all six children. Betty recalls
the love and support her parents gave as she
moved on to study and graduate from Addis
Ababa University.
A love of technology led her to minor in
computer science, and perseverance helped her
tackle the world of computer programming and
software applications development.

Betty met her husband, Ron, a North Dakota
native, in Ethiopia while they were both
working for the United Nations. The couple
has three sons: 11-year-old twins Gabriel and
Nathaniel and 13-year-old Joshua. With three
active boys in the house, Betty managed to earn
a graduate degree in software engineering in
2012 from North Dakota State University.
Its amazing what you can do when you
force yourself to be organized. Add to that an
intense desire to keep on learning, you get a
good recipe, she says, smiling.
The STE M o f al l t hi ng s
Betty says she loves her job as an engineer

at Intelligent InSites, a company that develops
software that has a life-changing, direct impact
on people and their health care.
Our software provides automatically
collected intelligent data to health care
providers to help them increase the efficiency
of caregiving, such as reducing patient wait
times, Betty says.
Betty has wonderful insights and brings a
different point of view to our company, says
Dan Schulz, vice president of engineering at
Intelligent InSites. She is a driven person
who knows what she wants and has incredible
experience. She may be soft-spoken, but when
she speaks, we listen.
As her company continues to scout young
talent and technology graduates, Betty has
noticed the small pool of women who apply.

Helping expand the gender role in
technology is my dream, she says. If we
can change one little girls mind to pursue
computer science, thats a big deal.
She notes the initiatives of TechGYRLS at
NDSU and the STEM (science, technology,
engineering and math) programs at West Fargo
schools. She works to strengthen middle school
programs to promote the rewards of working in
technology.
Ho r s e - po we r e d l i t e r a cy
Ethiopia Reads has planted more than 65

libraries across the East African country.
Kids walk for miles every day after school to
these literacy sites to read books and do their
homework.
This program empowers and strengthens
communities by providing books and learning
initiatives to help grow future leaders, Betty
says.
A horse-drawn bookmobile travels to rural
areas, bringing hope and imagination to kids
who have never held a book. Betty explains
that the program had humble beginnings in
1998, when Jane Kurtz, a former Grand Forks,
N.D., resident and childrens author, founded
the organization and became a worldwide
ambassador for literacy.
We need reading minds for a stronger
tomorrow, Betty says. Gifts of food and
Betty: Page 45
43
Betty Gronneberg, second from left, participates in a panel discussion at a Womens Impact event to celebrate International Womens Day on March 8, 2014, at the Plains Art
Museum in Fargo, N.D. Dave Wallis / The Forum
FOUNDERS
SECTION NAME
LETTER
Betty: From Page 43

clothing last a while, but education is forever, helping to make
global citizens.
He l pi ng o t he r s and m ak i ng a
di f f e r e nc e
Betty travels to local schools and talks about the Ethiopia Reads
program.
Lewis and Clark Elementary students collected coins during
their Reading Month, while Bennett Elementary students
participated in bring a book, buy a book and Fargo Marathon 5K
run for books events.
We want to cultivate the kids natural curiosity, foster their
cultural awareness, she says. This gives them more avenues to
gain perspective of other ideas and values without flying across
the globe.
Writing from her roots, Betty is working on publishing a
childrens book about the English alphabet letters taking a special
journey to meet the alphabet letters of the Ethiopian language a
cultural exchange. She plans to continue her support of literacy
through the proceeds of the book.
I am grateful for this bit of opportunity to have an impact on
someone elses life, she says. I love to lose myself in service of
others. I know there is so much more to be done.
Lisa Grossman & Melissa Nelson

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S EEKIN G
L I GHT O F G RAC E
Mother pers er veres l i fe s o b sta c l e s thro ug h fa i t h
By Roxane B. Salonen | Womens Impact contributor
WEST FARGO, N.D.

rom the start, Nicole Rusling
seemed to radiate grace. As an
infant, her peaceful disposition
even earned her a special role in a
Christmas play at her grandmothers church.
She said I was such a good baby with such
a quiet temperament that I was selected to play
the part of baby Jesus, Rusling says.
But a change in plans kept her from
realizing that role, and she has no memories
of attending church services as a child in
East Grand Forks, Minn. Although both her
maternal grandmother and stepgrandfather,
who raised her from age 12, believed in God,
they chose not to worship publicly.
Nicole seemed to instinctively feel Gods
presence, however, and as early as age 5, she
recalls, she began praying.
At school, Rusling would overhear her peers
conversing about church and sleepovers and
family vacations with their parents. Having
been raised her first years by a single mom
without those luxuries, she says, she turned
to God, hoping he would bring her some of
these joys.
Eventually God did respond, though not in
ways shed expected.
Nicole Rusling. Carrie Snyder / The Forum
TRAG E DY TURN S TO T R U S T
In high school, Rusling befriended identical

twins Katie and Christie Sorlien, Christians
who showed her love and mercy at times she
felt unworthy including when she became
pregnant at 18.
There I was, pregnant in high school, but
these girls stuck by me, she says. That was
huge to have them a part of my life at that
time.
Then, at age 21, Katie was killed in a car
accident, leaving Rusling grieved and confused.
Katie was so pure. She hadnt even
experienced having a boyfriend yet and
believed intimacy was sacred, Rusling says. It
was hard for me to understand why this would
happen to someone like her.
Rusling began attending church with the
Sorliens, which fed her deep hunger for the
Lord, she says. With the help of the twins
mother, Shirley, she began to see that Katie
hadnt died in vain, and possibly had led
others to Christ.
She also realized then that everything has a
purpose, she says, even if we cant immediately
see it.
In time, Rusling met a man who seemed to
be the one, and moved to Wyoming with
him and her young daughter, Whitney. Life
seemed good, but God took a backseat, she
admits.
The two became engaged but eventually
broke up. Shattered, Rusling moved back to
North Dakota with Whitney, now 12.
When we moved back here, it was like God
was tapping me on the shoulders saying, You
need me, seek me, she says.
At Prairie Heights Community Church in
Fargo, Rusling listened to Pastor Jon Hausers
sermons and found her soul reviving, his
messages almost addicting.
She became hooked on Gods love and
began meeting new friends, who led her to her
current job, where, she says, she can express
her faith openly.
B LE S S IN GS, NEW
CHA L LE NGES
In recent years, Rusling says, blessings have

been abundant, but challenges have still come.
Late last year, Rusling received news shed
been working her whole adult life to prevent:
her daughter, 16, was pregnant.
It was a scary time for the family, but just like
always, Rusling says, God provided by bringing
friends into her life at key moments, including
Coleen Murray Teigen.
We have a joke. One day Im the caboose
and shes the conductor because shes pulling
me through, and other times its reversed,
Rusling says.
Another friend, Joy Sugden, grew up a
pastors daughter in a home where faith
was natural and steady, and says she finds
Ruslings faith, formed through such different
circumstances, remarkable.
Its so refreshing to witness that, along with
her childlike reliance on God this belief that
he loves and cares for her and is going to get
her through the hard times, Sugden says. Its
been an encouragement to me, growing up
with it, but maybe not believing it in the way
Ive seen Nicole believe it.

Shes also been impressed by Ruslings ability
to set aside her own worries for others. Its
just so rare to see that, where one persons
hardship doesnt dominate the friendship, she
says. And Nicole has never let me wallow in
my sadness and despair. Shes always been a
beacon of hope.
When Stacia Jonason met Rusling, she was
at a tough place in her life and not feeling too
social, but Rusling drew her out.
Shes just always very open, Jonason says.
She will ask questions about everything in
your life and really try to get to know you that
way; not to be nosy, but simply because she
wants to be a friend.
ROC K - STE ADY RE SI L I E N C E
Jonason also finds Ruslings resilience

inspiring. We all get down at times, but Ive
never seen Nicole stay down, she says. In
a five-minute phone call, she might start out
upset and crying, but by the time its done,
everythings OK, everythings going to be all
right.
Rusling says shes been called an
overcomer, but she knows its all God. Hes
given me so many incredible ways to look at

things or see other people.
Like the time an anonymous card with muchneeded money came in the mail, or a stranger
covered her tab in the fast-food drive-thru, or
a co-worker donated days off so she could be
with her daughter.
I know these gifts have all been from God,
she says. Somebody who isnt a believer might
think its just a coincidence, but that many
coincidences, really?
Recently, Rusling says, she has felt called
to make her mess a message, to encourage
others with what shes experienced and
overcome.
Whenever she feels like she cant get through
another day, she says, Gods grace comes
floating into her life once more, helping her
get through the next minute, and then another
hour.
I want this for my daughter and grandson,
too, Rusling says. I want them to follow
Gods plan and never feel lost. And I want
them to know he loves them, even more than
I do.
L I GHT FRE E DOM

FOR
S H I N I N G A L I G H T I N T H E DA R K N E S S O F S E X T RA F F I C K I N G
J A N . 11T H | 4 P.M . | FAR G O THE AT R E

Join 1ForceUnited, Voice for the Captives, and Womens
Impact to end sex-trafficking. Hear real-life stories from
community members and law enforcement in a panel
discussion 4-5:30pm, followed by a walk for Freedom down
Broadway.
001168399r1
SECTION NAME
HOME
WORK
C R A F T E R T U R N S R E L A X AT I O N H O B B Y I N T O B U S I N E S S
By Heidi Tetzman Roepke | Womens Impact contributor
WINTER 2015
SECTION NAME
Michelle Riedemann shows off the finished product of her no-sew

burlap bunting. Carrie Snyder / The Forum
SECTION NAME
49
SECTION NAME
FARGO, N.D.
ichelle Riedemann has always created
crafts for herself, her friends and her
family, but now shes making it into
a business.
The side venture has emerged at the busiest time in her
life, when the full-time registered nurse has a toddler at
home. But the extra work hasnt added stress to the Fargo
moms life just the opposite, in fact.
Its been my sanity; I go to it for relaxation, to get my
head on straight again, Riedemann says.
Just a few years ago, she couldnt have pictured where
her passion for crafting would take her. At the urging of
others, Riedemann, who specializes in embroidery, banners
and decorative wreaths, decided about a year ago to start
selling her creations on Etsy.
Shes expanded to participating in craft fairs, such as
Unglueds Craft Fest in Fargo. Her work was featured at the
Corks & Canvas art and wine walk, and her crafts are for
sale at the Unglued shop in downtown Fargo, a haven for
local, handmade items.
People in the local creative community have been very
positive, Riedemann says, striving to build people up and
support what they make.
Her work took time and perseverance to perfect. She
learned basic sewing and how to run a sewing machine
from her mother. She taught herself hand embroidery
through trial and error and also by watching online
tutorials.
It was a lot of practice and fail, practice and fail, she
says.
Through her experience, Riedemann gained a new
appreciation for the work that goes into handmade items.
Id gotten wedding gifts of embroidered dish towels, but
I didnt appreciate the value of it, she says. Then when
I started my hand at it, you appreciate how beautiful it
is, and how much work it takes. Its a labor of love, each
stitch. And a creation is made stitch by stitch.
The crafter loves making lots of different items and
doesnt like limiting herself to doing the same project over
and over. The learning process never ends, she says.
My creative process is a little chaotic I always have 10
different things going at once, always a new style or idea,
she says.
As for the future of her business, right now, shes just
trying to see where it goes.
You make time for things you enjoy, she says. I love
being a nurse, but its a different type of fulfillment than
creating something and seeing people buy your work and
put it in their homes. I want it to be enjoyable. I never
want it to be a stressful thing that Im obligated to do.
Find Riedemann online:

www.etsy.com/shop/
SparrowNbirch
SECTION NAME
STEP
Gather the supplies needed for a no-sew burlap bunting.
STEP
Photos by Carrie Snyder
Use stencils to trace and cut fabric.
A R E YO U A
WOMAN
WHO NEEDS
SUPPORT
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BUSINESS?
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magazine that offers you an
opportunity to have your ad
sponsored.
Send your request today:

info@womensimpact.com
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SECTION NAME
STEP
Glue the fabric pieces together.
STEP
Photos by Carrie Snyder
DONE!
Glue ribbon to the top of the burlap.
SECTION NAME
Proudly Sponsors
CC CONNECTION
Ki m Pl a d son
Executi v e Di rector
001167604r1
M el i ssa Ra g use
Execu ti ve Di recto r
an d
F o u n der
TNT is a place where children of all abilities can grow in

their tness. Every child can feel a tremendous belonging,
be inspired, and discover life lessons about perseverance.
TNT provides a place for physical activity and training
opportunities for a broad array of children, from the child with
special needs to the competitive athlete...all accomplishing
and experiencing amazing personal success.
701. 365 .8 8 6 8
w w w . t n t k idsfi tnes s .o r g
We are a non-prot organization that helps ght human

trafcking in North Dakota. North Dakota is tied for last
in efforts to ght human trafcking, & with the oil boom, it
is only becoming a growing problem. With our 4P program
- Prevention, Protection, Prosecution & Partnership - we
believe we will see human trafcking end in our lifetime.
678- 667 -3 0 3 4
1Force Un it e d@gmai l .co m
1f orce un ited.co m
001167497r1
COMMUNITY
The Forum and Forum Communications Company proudly

supports the businesses featured on this page.The care, guidance
and healing provided by each of these organizations greatly
improves the quality of life in our community and beyond. We
are honored to contribute to their continued success.
Aaron Becher
General Manager, The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead
THE FORUM PROUDLY SUPPORTS EMPOWERING BUSINESSES BY SPONSORING THIS PAGE.
001167495r1
GOING
VIRAL
Image of ailing dog was life-changing for photographer
By Christa Lawler | Forum News Service
Schoep and John Unger relaxing in Lake Superior in Bayfield, Wis. Courtesy of Hannah Stonehouse Hudson
DULUTH, MINN
t has been two years since a Bayfield,
Wis., photographer captured an image
that she credits as being life-changing.
It exploded on social media. At its
peak, it caused her voicemail box to fill up four
or five times a day. In London, her good friend
was walking downtown and saw a copy of the
photo on the cover of a newspaper. There were
sightings in Hong Kong, and the Today show
took notice.
Then there was the couple who drove sevenplus hours just to meet her and the subjects.
Hannah Stonehouse Hudson found them,
uninvited, in her kitchen.

Its kind of scary to have people you dont
know walk into your kitchen, Hudson said.
They believed I had caught love on camera.
They wanted to thank me.
Overwhelming, yes, but Hudson said she
believed they came from a good place.
It was crazy for months, and it continues to
be crazy, Hudson said.
The photo seen around the world
The image is of an ailing dog resting on
his owners chest as they waded shoulderdeep in Lake Superior. Schoep, a 19-year-old
shepherd mix, was suffering from arthritis, and
John Unger believed at the time that the dog

wouldnt live much longer.
He contacted Hudson, a friend, about taking
some final photographs of Schoep. She met up
with the duo at Reiten Beach in Bayfield, and
it didnt take long to capture the moment that
would become Internet famous.
Hudson was mostly shooting weddings
and commercial photography with a Midwest
client base at the time, but this was a scene
that epitomized what she wanted to do with a
camera.
Love and emotions and old dogs, she said.
Old dogs are my favorite.
The photograph gained momentum, and in

less than a week had more than 1.8 million
views. Some of those viewers sent donations
to help pay for more extensive veterinary
treatments that Unger could not afford.
Schoep ended up living almost another year.
The photo didnt just affect Hudsons
professional life. It indirectly led to comfort
from strangers when, soon after, her husband
died unexpectedly.
Jim Hudson, a well-known fishing guide,
broke through the ice on a snowmobile the
following winter.
People from around the world who had been
moved by her photograph came forward to
offer condolences.
When my husband passed away, I was so
well taken care of, she said. Not only by
locals, the wonderful local people in the area,
but by people who didnt know me who only
knew about this photo I had taken.
Hudson said that when the photo of Schoep
went viral, she considered it her gift to the
universe.
When Jim passed away, that was returned
to me.
A new direction
Hudson is still settling in to a new life
brought on largely because of the photograph
which continues to generate interest.
These days she travels around the country
teaching employees at shelters how to take
better photographs of their adoptable animals.
She has done sessions in Los Angeles, Fort
Worth, Texas, and central Florida. During
August Hudson gave a tutorial at Animal Allies
in Duluth.
Weeks before the Schoep photo, Hudson told
her husband that she wanted to make a career
out of taking photographs of dogs.
He said, That will never happen. Especially
up here, she recalled. Two months later,
I took the John and Schoep photo, and now
thats pretty much what I do.
Case in point: Hudson has six weddings left
to shoot before she takes a break from that
style of photography. Her schedule is booked
with workshops, pet photography, speaking
engagements and writing.
Ive had to pick something to not do
anymore, she said.
001167167r1
Hannah Stonehouse Hudson sits with her two dogs. Courtesy of Hannah Stonehouse Hudson
Mary Lillestol is the vice president of Lillestol

Reasearch in Fargo, N.D. Carrie Snyder / The Forum
Beautiful Women of America:
Mar y
Lillest ol
By Tracy Briggs | Womens Impact contributor
Beautiful Women of America is a project started in 2008 by Billy

Black and Cris Linnares. The projects mission is to reveal the
hidden beauty of remarkable women through photography and
storytelling. For more information or to purchase the book Beautiful
Women of North Dakota, visit www.beautifulwomenofamerica.com.
To nominate someone in your life for Beautiful Women,
email info@womensimpact.org.
57
SECTION NAME
To do what you love

and feel that it matters,
how could anything
be more fun?
FARGO, N.D.
s Mary Lillestol shows you
around the Lillestol Research
office in south Fargo, you
sense this is more than work
to her. Its home. From the exam room with
the overstuffed easy chair and big TV to the
break room with the vintage carnival popcorn
maker, this is one office that doesnt seem to
understand its an office. And Lillestol likes it
that way.
This is the boys room, she says in a way
that makes you think youll see bunk beds
inside.
Its actually the office shared by her two sons,
Kris, 36, the information systems manager, and
John, 31, the director of study finances. And

theyre not the only Lillestols on the payroll.
Marys older daughter, Kim Peterson, 34, is the
chief operating officer, and Johns wife, Andrea,
is the marketing coordinator. Thats three out
of four children who work at the company
along with Mary and husband Dr. Michael
Lillestol. Only younger daughter, Kari, 23, isnt
there.
Shes a nurse, so of course, someday wed
love to have her here, Mary says.
Working side by side with the people she
loves most seems fitting for a woman who
started her business at home at her kitchen
table.
It was all a big accident, she says.

In 1991, Mary, a registered nurse, opened
a letter a pharmaceutical company had
accidentally sent to their home address. In
the letter, they asked her husband, Mike, an
internal medicine doctor, to take part in a
clinical research trial on osteoporosis. She says
he wasnt interested, but she was.
I told him, What if I helped you with it? I
saw it as something we could do together, she
says. Osteoporosis runs in our family, so I was
interested for that reason, too.
And she was looking for something to do in
addition to being mom to her four children,
then ages newborn to 13. Mike agreed. Their
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SECTION NAME
From left, Andrea Lillestol, John Lillestol, Kim Peterson, Mary Lillestol and Kris Lillestol. Carrie Snyder / The Forum
first study was underway.

I used to make calls from my bedroom just
to get away from the kids, she says. It was
really important to me to prove I could do it.
And she definitely did. She enrolled more
participants in that study than anyone else
in the United States. She was hooked. More
studies would follow, in part because of
Lillestols good reputation. By 2004, she
realized to handle the demand, they would
need to officially start their own company.
Lillestol says the only way shed do that would
be to make sure it was a comfortable, familyfriendly place, and working side by side with
her family is a definite bonus. She and Peterson
even share an office.

I dont know how to explain it. It just works.
Everyone is really close. We even vacation
together, she says.
By 2010, Lillestol Research was named
Small Business of the Year by the FM Chamber
of Commerce. These days, they have 21
employees working for them. But that doesnt
mean its all been rosy. During a couple of their
slower years, Mary says she lost sleep worrying
because her childrens livelihood depended
upon the success of the business she started.
Even so, she says she always knew it would be
a success.
I was always looking 10 years down the line,
not at today, she says.

Pederson adds, Mom has always been the
biggest cheerleader. If we had a setback, shed
always say, Itll be fine!
Mary says shes been told many times to quit
or slow down, but she says her family is here
and she believes in what shes doing, so for the
foreseeable future, shell keep that desk right
beside her daughters. Just down the hall, in
Lillestols home away from home, she had a
quote by former Washington Post Publisher
Katharine Graham painted on the wall. It
seems to spell out Lillestols approach to life:
To do what you love and feel that it matters,
how could anything be more fun?
OPEN
7 DAYS A
WEEK
4035 40th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104

701-281-3895
001166038r1
www.southbarkfargo.com
20%
OFF
ANY
SERVICE
Expiration Jan 31st, 2015
BY T H E N U M B E RS
Take a look at an area
nonprofit through its numbers
CVIC
5 0%
INCREASE IN NIGHTS HOUSEHOLDS
SHELTERED AT CVIC OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS
85 9
MEALS PROVIDED
AT SHELTER LAST YEAR
92%
OF YOUTH
SURVEYED/RATED
DEMONSTRATED
IMPROVED COPING
SKILLS AFTER THERAPY
96%
OF PROFESSIONALS SURVEYED
REPORTED INCREASED KNOWLEDGE
AFTER RECEIVING OUR TRAINING
AN N UA L B UD GET
1,760 DONORS
C OL L AB ORAT ING
O R G A N I Z AT I O N S
$3,028,099
MOT HERS I N
T RA N SI T I ON A L
HOU SI N G
SECU RED A N D
RETA I N ED
EMPLOY MEN T
50
70% REDUCTION IN 911 CALLS
5 of 5
VO LU N T E E R S
TO OFFENDERS HOMES WITHIN TWO YEARS OF

COMPLETING OUR NEW CHOICES P R O G R A M
OF CLIENTS REPORTING ENHANCED

SAFETY AFTER RECEIVING SERVICES
M E M BE RS
6,930
200
90 %
55
STAFF
SUPERVISED VISITS
P R O V I D E D TO
C H I L D R E N AT R I S K
OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT
SERVED (IN 2013)

SHELTERED AT CVIC OVER THE PAST YEAR
Provides a lifeline to safety by

offering 24-hour crisis inter vention,
shelter, legal representation and
super vised parenting time/child
exchanges.
Fosters healing and empowerment
by providing trauma-informed
counseling for adults and children,
career counseling and suppor t,
transitional housing, and guidance
through the legal system.
Creates a vibrant community
by preventing violence and by
providing education in schools and
the community, professional training,
strategic collaboration and offender
treatment.
CVIC Executive Director
Kristi Hall-Jiran
INCREASE IN NIGHTS HOUSEHOLDS
Grand Forks, N.D.
30% 12,623
Community
Violence
Intervention
Center
49 8
HIG H S CHOOL
ATHLETES HAVE
RECEIVED THE
COA CHING BOY S
INTO M EN
CURRICULUM TO
LEA RN RES P ECT OF
WOM EN A ND GIRLS
UPCOMING EVENTS
9th Annual West Fargo Shakers New Years Eve Bash
Dec. 31
7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Speedway Event Center, 680 Main Ave. W., West Fargo, N.D.
This nonprofit group shakes up the traditional New Years par ty. Each
year, the event fundraises for a local charity. This year, ring in the new
year and suppor t Creative Care for Reaching Independence (CCRI).
Buy tickets at http://wfshakers.com/event-details.
Heart Ball for American Heart Association

Jan. 31
5 p.m.
Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S., Fargo
Hear t Ball is one of the premier American Hear t Association fundraising
events both locally and across the nation. Come and celebrate the
lives saved and improved because of ever yones countless effor ts.
Buy tickets at http://redriver valleyhear tball.org.
8 Days
Jan. 8
7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Marcus West Acres Cinema, 4101 17th Ave. S.W., Fargo, N.D.
After sneaking to a par ty with her friends, 16-year-old Amber Stevens
goes missing. Forced into the world of sex-trafficking, her family and
community fight to get her back. A film inspired by actual events.
This film was promoted by Voice for the Captives, 1ForceUnited and
Womens Impact.
Giving Hearts Day

Feb. 12
Last years donations totaled $5.7 million to 235 charities throughout
Nor th Dakota and Western Minnesota. Give suppor t to the nonprofit of
your choice at www.impactgiveback.org.
Light for Freedom, Shining a Light in the Darkness

of Sex Trafficking
Jan. 11
4 p.m.
Fargo Theatre, 314 Broadway, Fargo, N.D.
Join 1ForceUnited, Voice for the Captives, and Womens Impact to
end sex-trafficking. Hear real-life stories from community members
and law enforcement in a 15-minute panel discussion. Light the way
to freedom in a shor t, candlelight prayer walk in downtown Fargo.
Cares for Kids Radiothon
Jan. 30-31
Join Midwest Communication Stations Y94 (93.7FM) and Froggy 99.9
(99.9FM) as they broadcast live during the 15th Annual Cares for Kids
Radiothon benefiting Childrens Miracle Network at Sanford Childrens
Hospital Fargo.
26th Annual Sweetheart Ball Ronald McDonald House

Feb. 14
Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S., Fargo
Enjoy food, fellowship and the rockin music of the Second Chances
band at the 26th Annual Sweethear t Ball. This event benefits the
Ronald McDonald house in the Fargo-Moorhead area.
Visit http://rmhcfargo.org for more information.
2015 International Womens Day
March 7
TBD
If there is one event you cant miss this winter, this is it. Please join
Womens Impact to celebrate International Womens Day, and be
inspired to live a more fit, free and fearless life. Visit
http://womensimpact.org/events for more information.
North Dakota Womens Startup Weekend
April 17-19
Ever wondered what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Anyone is
welcome to come and pitch their star tup idea and receive feedback
from their peers.Visit http://nor thdakota.star tupweekend.org for more
information.
VOICE S
Each issue a guest writer shares her view of
the world and how to make a difference in it.
PUR P O S E -D R I V E N S U RV I VAL
Af ter a woman loses a child, she finds a new path to honor all her children
hen the going

gets tough, the
tough get going.
Im sure weve all
heard this phrase and uttered it ourselves as
encouragement to others. I would counter,
however, that when the going gets tough,
the tough keep going. Not because we count
ourselves tough, or because we see opportunity
on the other side, but because if we stop going,
we stop having purpose. Perseverance is the
key to survival. At least it was the key to my
survival.
On April 9, 2013, at 37 weeks pregnant,
I went into labor with our second daughter.
After a perfect and textbook pregnancy, as
described by the doctors, we were on our way
to bringing another bouncing baby girl into the
world.
Once we arrived at the hospital, however,
we were given the devastating news that she
no longer had a heartbeat. A few minutes after
midnight on April 10, I delivered our daughter,
Harlynn Renae, stillborn.
If there was ever a time in my life I wanted
time to stop, or to give up, it was that day.
Our daughter died, my heart shattered, and I
could not function. Physically I was recovering
from delivery, mentally I was grappling with
our debilitating reality, and emotionally I was
By Val Kleppen | Womens Impact contributor

completely broken. We went from eagerly
anticipating her arrival and crib assembly, to
solemnly planning her funeral and purchasing
a tiny casket.
I heard I dont know how you do it from
several observing our situation. Truth be told,
I didnt know how I did it, either, but I didnt
have a choice.
Three months after losing her, a newfound
friend and I started Harlynns Heart, a
nonprofit created to assist those suffering
through perinatal loss. In those first moments
and beyond, we come alongside bereaved
parents and help them navigate the grief
journey theyve found themselves thrust into.
Every time I hear of another baby lost, my
heart weighs so heavily in my chest. I know,
though, that the only way to survive the death
of your baby is to keep going. You can parent
beyond the grave, and your babys life does
matter. If I can make the tiniest difference in
the broken heart of a bereaved parent; the fact
that I kept going after losing Harlynn is proof of
limitless possibility.
NEW BEGINNINGS
Five months after losing her, I became

pregnant again. I was terrified. I was frantic.
I was engulfed by fear and anxiety. Every
appointment had me shedding tears and
shaking with worry.
When we told our then-3-year-old we were

expecting again, her response was, Not again
She was scared. Often we fielded her timid
question, Is this baby going to die?
Our excitement in expecting was continually
shadowed by the dread of the unknown.
Thirty-five weeks and another close-call later,
we welcomed Heston into our world. Our little
boy, Haley and Harlynns little brother.
Had I not kept going, had I not kept pressing
on, he wouldnt be here today. There are
blessings and triumphs I would have missed
out on, had I not trusted there was life after
loss. There are times, even still, I struggle to
take the next step. I struggle to be the woman,
wife, mother, I aspire to be.
Though I struggle I know there is worth in
powering through. Harlynn isnt here today, but
I am still her mother. I can still be the mother
she, her big sister, and now her little brother,
can be proud of. I thank God for my children
all three of them and I thank God he kept me
going, especially when the going got tough.
Val Kleppen is a wife, mother, blogger and
co-founder of Harlynns Hear t. She calls
Fargo home, and credits it for fueling her
knitting addiction. She loves Jesus, vanilla
lattes and a good burger. Follow her
Facebook page Vals Mind Mumbles to see
what shes up to.
SECTION NAME
WOMENS IMPACT INVITES YOU TO CELEBRATE

WITH MILLIONS OF WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD
International Womens Day
SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 2ND ANNUAL FEARLESS EVENT
3.7.20 15
001168398r1
For sponsorship opportunities and tickets

www.womensimpact.org

Women's Impact Magazine Vol. 4

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SECTION NAME

Food blogger takes success

701- 373- 0397

Project Give Five leads an effort to empower impoverished

i nfo@ project g i vefi ve . co m

Peb b l es T homp son

Legacy Childrens Foundation provides an opportunity for

Project Ignite Light provides a Bag of Hope to children who

701- 646- HOPE(4 6 7 3 )

Julie Peterson Klein

Haleys Hope serves those who struggle with reading difculty

4 WOMENS IMPACT | WINTER 2015

CONTENTS | WINTER 2015

Software engineer Betty Gronneberg gives back to

Get inspired at home by creating one of

THE LOOK THE FEEL THE ATMOSPHERE

Online Booking available www.avanthairstudio.com

la, fearless friends and

6 WOMENS IMPACT | WINTER 2015

Cris Linnares | Founder and President

dream, only to realize theres not enough left to

is no I helping you, but we supporting

Family Voices of ND is a statewide, grassroots network of families,

Thank you to our sponsor; you have inspired us to pay it

8 8 8 -5 22- 9654 | ww w. f vnd . org

We give back by assisting families 1:1 through learned experiences

Sanford Womens proudly supports the

Its time to add the I in the we.

find strength in our vulnerability.

create dance from our falls.

can make a mosaic out of broken pieces.

dont waste time trying to be more.

turn adjectives into verbs.

connect, empower, make an impact.

are here not to show to the world

are here to reveal who we already are.

are Womens Impact.

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

BILL MARCIL JR.

Advertising: (701) 451-5736

bellbanks.com | Member FDIC

Heidi Shaffer | Editor-in-Chief

W EATHERING W INTER W ELL

orn in Minnesota and raised in

Remember the good times.

This time of year, we gather with family and

10 WOMENS IMPACT | WINTER 2015

September evening on a picturesque Minnesota

Find someone who inspires

At just 25, Molly, the uber-popular blogger

Take care of yourself.

If those memories fade in a moment of

Surround yourself with beauty.

As you page through this issue, I hope youll

M e re d ith H o lt is a writer, editor

A p ril K n u ts o n is a writer, lover of

people, catch up with old friends and

12 WOMENS IMPACT | WINTER 2015

WOMENS IMPACT EVENTS

WHEN ITS 20 BELOW, WHERE DO YOU GO?

...TO PERSONAL TRAIN & XABEAT!

Womens clothing & accessories in sizes S-3XL

1800 21st Ave S. (lower level of