Mississippi Park Connection strengthens the enduring connection between people and the Mississippi River by enriching the life of the river and the lives of all who experience our national park, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

» We are the nonprofit partner of Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a national park in the Twin Cities.

» Established in 2007.

» We focus areas of work include youth education, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

» We raise money for park programs, co-manage volunteer program, co-create community programs.

Mission Statement:

Mississippi Park Connection strengthens the enduring connection between people and the Mississippi River by enriching the life of the river and the lives of all who experience our national park, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Vision Statement:

In partnership with the National Park Service, Mississippi Park Connection will ignite discovery and a lifelong relationship with the Mississippi River. Through youth education, environmental stewardship and community engagement, we will mobilize residents and visitors, and serve as a model for operating a national park in an urban area where people are part of the landscape.

Values:

Community Focused

We are fortunate to have the support of an engaged community, full of knowledgeable and passionate individuals. Each person has a unique relationship with this place, and plays a role in telling the river’s story. We are committed to honoring these relationships, and ensuring that everyone feels a sense of ownership of this park.

Inspiration

We seek to inspire people of all backgrounds to discover, explore, and cherish this place. We believe that by helping others to develop their personal relationships with the river, we will continue to cultivate dedicated advocates, stewards, and visitors of this park.

Resilience

We believe that our organization is much like a river, ever-flowing and always changing; and that enduring change means embracing it and remaining flexible. We keep an optimistic eye on the future to create solutions that steer through whatever snags may lie ahead.

Partnership

Above all, we believe in working together to achieve our goals. Just as no stream, creek, or river exists in isolation, we too are all connected to this watershed and to one another. It is through our partnerships that we are able to set a high standard in the national park system, and be a catalyst for positive change.

Joy

We acknowledge the human value of our shared natural resources, and recognize the role these spaces play in keeping us connected to our humanity. We go to the river to find tranquility, healing, and fun. The emotional connections that we have with the river are the driving force behind everything we do.

» Governing Board responsible for mission and integrity of the organization

» Maximum of 20 members

» Three year terms (board members can serve up to 9 years maximum)

» Responsible for successful partnership with the National Park Service

» Board members are sought out for specific skills including, philanthropy, government relations, marketing/PR, legal, outdoor/nature engagement

Current Board Committees

» Board Relations / Governance

» Finance

» River Learning Center

» Special Events

Key Initiatives

» Mississippi River Paddle Share

» Plant For The Future

» River Learning Center

» St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam Redevelopment

» Attend and participate in board meetings 4 times per year

» Join a special committee

» Contribute to a big picture, long-term view to the work of staff by driving strategic direction

» Make a gift that is personally significant

» Attend events

» Enhance the reputation and branding through advocacy and action

Anna Waugh, Interim Executive Director

awaugh@parkconnection.org

Sam Holsen, Board Relations Committee Chair

Samuel.R.Holsen@xcelenergy.com