Leisure Education for Exceptional People, Inc. (LEEP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that enriches lives through inclusive recreation, sporting, and healthy living opportunities. Programming is designed to enhance the quality of life for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Greater Mankato Area.
LEEP History
LEEP was started in 1978 by a group of parents who had children with disabilities. The group met every Wednesday night to socialize and interact with other families had similar interests and abilities. Since that time, LEEP has grown. This growth continues today as reflected in the wide scope of programming that is offered. LEEP continues to collaborate with many agencies and individuals in the community who are committed to ensuring that LEEP’s mission is being achieved.
How is LEEP Funded?
LEEP uses a variety of resources to keep the agency running smoothly. The Greater Mankato Area United Way is a steady, local source of support. The Otto Bremer Trust also provides significant general operating funding to LEEP. In addition, there are many generous contributions from foundations, businesses, civic groups, and individuals. Participants do pay an annual membership fee and a fee per activity to cover the cost of some of the expenses for activities. LEEP is proud to utilize 100-150 trained volunteers each year in multiple roles as well, which keeps staffing costs lower.
Who participates in LEEP?
LEEP serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities over the age of eight years old, however the agency’s largest population served is adults. Participants have a variety of living situations including independent and semi-independent living, a group home setting, in adult foster care, or with family members. Most of these adults work and/or volunteer in the community.
Several hundred individuals participate in LEEP activities each year. Some participate on a weekly basis, while others may have an activity or sport that they prefer to participate in.
LEEP Goals
- Offer recreation programs that enhance the quality of life for people with
disabilities. - Teach lifelong leisure skills.
- Assist with inclusion of participants into existing community programs.
- Increase community awareness of people of all abilities.
Board Members
Cara Samuelson
President
Mankato Area Public Schools
Mary Jo Menden
Vice President
Retired
Jill Kinas
Secretary
Harry Meyering Center
Nancy Dobson
Retired / Mankato Area Children in Need
Nate Lotton
MRCI
Peter Backes
ZF Mico
Steven Groschen
Independent Attorney
Carrie Flanagan
Volk Transfer
Laura Pierson
Journeys Toward Healing
Counseling Center
Cathy Groebner
The EON
Administrative Staff Members
Lisa Hoffman Wojcik
Executive Director
Focus Areas:
Development
Strategic Planning & Direction
Community Relationships
Fundraising Events
Kristin Aarsvold
Program & Athletic Manager
Focus Areas:
Program Planning/Implementation/Evaluation
Athletics/Special Olympics Implementation & Oversight
Volunteer Supervision
Internship Oversight
Kayla Kearney
Office & Event Coordinator
Focus Areas:
Office Management
Customer Service
Event and Logistical Support
Data Management
Programming Staff Members
Ana Christofferson
Brandi Winsor
Maddy Johansen
Madison Abels
Sarah Johansen
Rebeckah Maday
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