Rachel’s life and death inspired our family to raise awareness about the rise of colorectal cancer among young adults. We established a DMF fund called "Live Like Rach" so others don’t suffer the same fate. Rachel wasn’t just a person, she was a force. There are ways to beat this, and we’re going to get there.

In 2010, as a first-time executive director, I was encouraged to meet with DMF and the Impact Learning Co. for training and support. If they told us to do something, we did it AND it worked! I still turn to Impact for guidance and support. They help us continue to grow and get better. I am always learning through them.

Dakota Medical Foundation believed in the need for Lend A Hand Up and its potential as a valuable health initiative in this area. Lend A Hand Up provides crowdfunding tools and guidance to help people host successful fundraisers for local families in crisis. Since 2008, more than $21 million has been raised.