WE DID IT!
Thank You for FORTifying Our Future!

It has been an incredible journey since announcing the public portion of the FORTify Our Future Capital Campaign in December of 2018. During that time, we had over 500 unique individuals, families and organizations contribute to the cause, raising an incredible $1.125 million! THANK YOU!

But like many non-profit organizations, the temporary closure of The Fort due to the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the landscape of our day-to-day operations. After assessing, evaluating and reevaluating our priorities on a daily basis the past three months to ensure The Fort remained financially solvent, we also found a way to complete the final phase of our Capital Campaign and make all of the necessary upgrades required to renew our lease (two 10-year terms) with the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. We cannot wait for you to see our new “Dome Sweet Home” that includes a new back air-supported bubble, HVAC system, 40 new LED lights, the Legacy Brick walkway outside the facility and the new donor wall in the walkway leading to the courts! We are so proud of the finished product and what we have accomplished!

In life, difficult times bring out the best in people. We know none of this would have been possible without our loyal Fred Wells family. Your incredible generosity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed us to persevere so we can continue delivering our mission of bringing people together of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to embrace the lifelong game of tennis while serving under-resourced youth in the Twin Cities and surrounding communities. THANK YOU!

I would be remiss if I did not recognize, and personally thank from the bottom of my heart, our two Capital Campaign co-chairs and lead donors – Rick Rinkoff and Michele Mingo. Whether it was your generous financial commitments or your guidance in the development and execution of the Campaign, you both believed in this project from the very beginning and showed unwavering support and leadership that we could do this when others doubted us. THANK YOU!

I also would like to express my appreciation to our Capital Campaign Manager Lisa Mushett. Lisa was charged with developing a new culture of giving at The Fort, as well as building awareness surrounding the Campaign. She created a wide range of donor opportunities so all could participate in some capacity, and spearheaded many new special events enjoyed by our Fort family including our amazing Gala last fall. THANK YOU!

I also want to acknowledge an anonymous “guardian angel” who stepped up and provided the final $100,000 when we needed it the most, allowing us to complete the project. There are countless organizations out there who need assistance during these troubled times. We are indebted to you for choosing to “Support The Fort.” THANK YOU!

As we end our Capital Campaign, we know simply saying THANK YOU is not enough. Once we are safely able to come back together en mass, we will celebrate our incredible accomplishments with a Grand Opening ceremony for all.

Until then, may you and your loved ones be safe and healthy, and if you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask. We are here for you.

With deepest gratitude,

Esther Tsai
Fred Wells Executive Director