MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (April 7, 2025) — Children’s Minnesota, the only independent nonprofit pediatric healthcare system in the state, is thrilled to announce a generous, unrestricted commitment of $3 million from the Robert M. Jones Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation. This significant contribution will empower Children’s Minnesota to continue delivering world-class care to children for generations to come.
Funds will be strategically allocated through the Minneapolis Foundation to Children’s Minnesota over the next three years. The first $1 million will serve as a catalyst to ignite community support throughout 2025, inspiring collective action and amplifying the impact of this investment. It will benefit the organization’s most urgent needs, from life-saving treatment and technologies to vital support services like interpreters, advocates, social workers and child life specialists.
“We are incredibly grateful for this extraordinary act of generosity. This unrestricted gift allows us the flexibility to invest strategically in areas that will have the greatest impact on children’s lives. It reflects a profound trust in our vision and ensures our kid experts can continue providing exceptional care to families across our region,” said Jenny Soderholm, senior vice president, chief development officer and president of the Children’s Minnesota Foundation.
Robert Jones, a long-time supporter of Children’s Minnesota, was passionate about the health and wellbeing of children and families. In 2001, he and family members established an endowment at Children’s Minnesota in memory of his sister, Meredith Luhmann, to support the organization’s bereavement program. Before his passing in 2022, Robert entrusted his philanthropic vision to his life-long friend and business attorney, Joe Lawver. Through this generous commitment from the Robert M. Jones Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation, Robert’s legacy lives on, inspiring community support and funding for essential services and programs that make a lasting impact.
“Bob lived with quiet purpose—a successful businessman who was thoughtful and caring and found joy in simplicity. Though his life was cut short, he took comfort in knowing his legacy would give children and families healthier futures. It’s been my privilege to help fulfill my friend’s vision,” Lawver said.
About Children’s Minnesota
Children’s Minnesota is one of the largest pediatric health systems in the United States and the only one in Minnesota devoted exclusively to children, from before birth through young adulthood. An independent and not-for-profit system for more than 100 years, Children’s Minnesota offers more than 60 pediatric specialties through its two hospitals, multiple specialty centers and clinics throughout the metro area. The Kid Experts® at Children’s Minnesota are chosen by more families than any other pediatric health system in the region.
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