2011 is in full swing, and with the beginning of a new year come the first small steps toward economic sustainability for the Hogeland-Turner area known as the Big Flat. The Board of Directors of the newly formed Big Flat Community Grain Bin, elected at a town meeting in May of 2010, have begun preparations to establish a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to be used for the benefit of the Turner School and the Big Flat community as a whole.  

The first order of business for the foundation is to file for non-profit status with the Internal Revenue Service.  The Board of Directors is in the preliminary stages of preparation:  establishing concrete goals and a mission statement, developing Articles of Incorporation, and raising the funds needed to pay the initial filing fees, which are estimated at around $700.  

The advantages of 501(c)(3) non-profit status for a community foundation such as this are many, the biggest of which is allowing donors from anywhere in the U.S. to make tax-deductible contributions that directly benefit the communities of the Big Flat.  Although other non-profits do operate in the community, there are currently no 501(c)(3) level entities other than the 4-H club that provide a tax break to donors.

How can you help?  The Big Flat Community Grain Bin is currently planning fundraisers to generate the initial filing fees, and is open to any ideas that you may have for further development of the foundation.  The Board of Directors is reviewing surveys and public comments that were received in 2010 regarding establishment of the foundation, and will align the goals and mission of the foundation according to the input received.  As progress continues in the development of the Big Flat Community Grain Bin, updates will be made available.  Suggestions or inquiries may be made to:

The group is sponsoring a Jackrabbit Hunt the end of February as a fundraising event.  Watch for details on the website and in upcoming articles.