Mankato, MN (February 2026) The Mankato Clinic Foundation has awarded $25,000 to the Educare Foundation to support initiatives and programs in Mankato Area Public Schools. The Mankato Clinic Foundation has awarded Educare $175,000 in grants since 2019.

“The Mankato Clinic Foundation’s support demonstrated a meaningful investment in education and the future of our community,” said Carolyn Nelson, Board Chair of the Educare Foundation. “Because of this grant, we were able to expand our programs and reach more students with resources that support their education and development.”

Educare is a non-profit, public entity which provides financial support to Mankato Area Public Schools, beyond the normal operating budgets, for programs and activities that enhance educational opportunities for all students. Through this funding, Educare enables teachers to explore new ways to expand a world of learning for their students.

During the 2024–2025 school year, support from the Mankato Clinic Foundation focused on advancing the health and wellness of Mankato Area Public Schools students through both educational resources and active‑living initiatives. The grant supported an Initiative Grant that provided cross‑country skis for ISD 77, promoting physical activity and outdoor engagement, as well as a bike for Futures to encourage healthy movement and independence. In addition, funding helped supply a wide range of books and educational tools that support social‑emotional learning and a well‑rounded approach to student health and wellness. Together, these investments helped ensure students have access to resources that nurture both their physical well‑being and overall development.

About Educare Foundation 

The Educare Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in 1995, has provided more than $1.2 million in financial support to Mankato Area Public Schools. Educare’s support goes beyond the normal operating budgets to fund programs and activities that enhance educational opportunities for all students, encourage teachers to explore new ways of learning and provide a vital link between the community and the classroom. Visit www.educarefoundation.org to see a highlight of grants funded by Educare.

About the Mankato Clinic Foundation

The Mankato Clinic Foundation provides grants once a quarter to organizations and initiatives that promote and improve community health and wellness in the communities the clinic serves. Grants are awarded on a quarterly basis and are considered only through the application process. Applications are available at www.mankatoclinic.com/foundation-pages/mankato-clinic-foundation.