Event is 10 days away (as of 11/3/2025). Register today! | | |
Description of Grimm Design and how it began
I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Design Communications from the University of Minnesota. After graduating, I worked for several package design firms in the Twin Cities as a Graphic Designer and Design Director, gaining valuable experience in branding and production for national consumer brands.
In 2003, I created Grimm Design LLC to take on side projects and later saw an opportunity to build something more flexible – for myself and my family. What began as agency contracting gradually evolved into designing for non-profits, schools, and city initiatives, including logo development, branding, and communication materials.
Along the way, I joined the board of the Rockford Education Foundation, where I put my design and marketing experience to use. I was soon hired as the organization’s first Executive Director, helping to expand its funding, visibility, and community awareness through cohesive branding and storytelling. During that time, I stepped back from most client work to focus on REF’s growth and success.
After more than a decade with the foundation, I returned full-time to my design business and now serve a diverse mix of clients. My work spans print and digital design, including branding, marketing materials, and creative assets for regional and national projects. I continue to enjoy collaborating with clients who value thoughtful design and a professional, personalized approach.
How Grimm Design has contributed to the community
As a Rockford resident for 26 years, I’ve been involved in many committees over the years, driven by a genuine desire to help our community grow and succeed. I’ve had the privilege of contributing through brand design and marketing for local organizations, event branding, and multiple school referendum campaigns. As my business evolved and my children grew, I gradually stepped back from holding multiple volunteer roles to focus on serving clients – but my goal in every local project remains the same: to help our community look its best.
You can view examples of my community and client work at grimmdesignllc.myportfolio.com
What I admire about the Rockford/Greenfield community
As the designer of the Rockford Community Education brochure and former leader of the Rockford Education Foundation, I’ve had a front-row seat to the generosity and collaboration that make this community special. People here are genuinely committed to helping one another through volunteering, donations, and sponsorships, and there are so many organizations, businesses, and individuals doing great things. What stands out most is how businesses invest in our schools, and in turn, the school community supports local businesses, creating a partnership that truly benefits everyone.
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As I type this, the fall leaves are nearly past their peak and the days and weeks are moving along with change just like all of our lives do. It's hard to believe how fast the time goes. I took over as the Rockford-Greenfield Chamber President 10 months ago and it has been an honor and privilege to serve the community at this capacity.
The R-G Chamber Members are a vibrant, caring, and hardworking group of business owners, non-profits, and community members that genuinely want what is best for our community. At our most recent Chamber Luncheon, I shared with the attendees how a sense of community and your mental health can go hand-in-hand and are deeply intertwined. A strong sense of community provides crucial emotional support, a sense of belonging, and purpose. It is vital for positive mental well-being to help reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
Everyone part of our local chamber is a major lifeline of our community. When you look at your local school district, small businesses, churches, and non-profits, you will notice how they are each a branch of creating a successful, strong community. We need everyone to play a part. Coming together as a chamber member is a representation of your commitment to creating a vibrant Rockford-Greenfield Community. All of us on the board are proud to work alongside all of you to continue to build a stronger, better local community. If you know of someone that has questions about the Rockford-Greenfield Chamber or how they can become a member, please reach out any time at: rockfordgreenfieldchamber@gmail.com
Sincerely,
Shannon Sand
R-G Chamber President
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Like many districts in Minnesota, Rockford is facing a fiscal crisis that threatens to raise class sizes next year and for the near future. As a result, residents will be asked this fall to approve an operating levy and capital projects levy. Visit Vote 2025 page to learn more.
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DEED Encourages Employers to Prepare Now for Paid Leave Launch
St. Paul, MN – The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today reminded employers of the three simple steps they need to take to meet their responsibilities under the upcoming Paid Leave program. Employers must set up their Paid Leave accounts, notify employees by Dec. 1 and take optional actions to make Paid Leave work best for their workplace.
“Paid Leave will help us build on Minnesota’s standing as one of the best states for children and families,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “Employers play a critical role in ensuring the smooth launch of the new program so that Minnesotans can take the time they need for the moments that matter most. With the Paid Leave launch only two months away, employers should take three easy steps right now to set up their accounts, notify their employees and set other policies for their staff.”
Step One: Set up Your Paid Leave Administrator Accounts Now
Step Two: Notify Employees
Step Three: Customize Paid Leave to Your Workplace
To learn more about Paid Leave, visit the Paid Leave website.
DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. Find out how DEED delivers for Minnesota by visiting the DEED website or CareerForceMN.com, and learn how to do business in Minnesota.
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Get Ready to Play! 80's TV Game Show Night
📅 Saturday, November 22, 2025
📍 Rush Creek Golf Course
The Rockford Education Foundation is turning up the volume and throwing it back to the ultimate era of neon, big hair, and buzzer-beating fun! Join us for an unforgettable evening of games, dinner, and fundraising, all supporting educational excellence in Rockford schools.
🎟 Tickets on sale now through November 15! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this high-energy night that’s sure to have you laughing, reminiscing, and giving back.
Buy Tickets Here » https://secure.qgiv.com/event/rockford25
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Congratulations to 30 Years!! | |
Wright County Economic Development Partnership is excited to announce our new location in Delano’s West Industrial Park.
Beginning October 1, 2025, you can find us at: 1051 McKinley Parkway, Delano, MN 55328
We look forward to welcoming you to our new space!
Please note that staff are not always on site. To ensure someone is available to assist you, kindly contact Missy or Amber by phone or email to schedule a visit or meeting.
Missy: missym@wrightpartnership.org
(612) 283-0238
Amber: ambers@wrightpartnership.org
(763) 496-5593
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BANKWEST Gives Back: Community Cleanup & Historic Preservation
At BANKWEST, we are deeply committed to supporting and enhancing the Rockford community. This fall, our employees rolled up their sleeves to make a tangible difference in two meaningful projects that highlight our dedication to our community.
Highway 55 Cleanup
In collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Adopt-a-Highway program, our employees completed their second highway cleanup of 2025, along Highway 55 in Rockford, removing 20 trash bags of litter from just a 2.5-mile stretch! This initiative not only beautifies our shared spaces but also promotes environmental responsibility and civic pride.
Volunteering at the Ames-Florida-Stork House
Our employees also dedicated time to the Ames-Florida-Stork House, a historic site managed by the Rockford Area Historical Society. Volunteers assisted with various preservation tasks, including staining picnic tables and contributing to other projects. These efforts help maintain the integrity of this historic property, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for future generations.
Strengthening Community Bonds
These projects are part of our ongoing commitment to Rockford, reflecting our mission “To recognize and serve the needs of our customers, community and employees as we Build a Legacy of Caring” We are proud to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all Rockford residents and contribute to the rich tapestry of our local heritage.
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Wright-Hennepin Hosts Events, School Giveaways To Celebrate National Co-Op Month
Rockford, Minn. (October 29, 2025) — To celebrate National Co-op Month in October and its Commitment to Community principle, Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association (WH) donated nightlights and earbuds to local schools. The cooperative also hosted two member appreciation events at its Rockford headquarters. WH donated more than 3,200 LED nightlights to kindergartners and 3,500 earbuds to third graders at 40 elementary schools in WH’s service territory. The school donation tradition began in 1997 when WH donated tree seedlings to third graders following a tornado that destroyed trees throughout WH’s service territory. Today, the giveaways represent WH’s presence in the communities it serves by providing energy-efficient lights, and classroom technology supplies.
The WH Member Lunch Tuesday, October 21 hosted a record 450 attendees, who enjoyed a hamburger, potato salad, chips, and a cookie courtesy of WH. Members who attended were also entered to win one of two $50 bill credits, and a giveaway for a new WH Security basic system. This year’s Fall Festival also broke an attendance record, with 290 attendees. Families enjoyed pumpkin decorating, balloon animals, a giant slide, magic show and the opportunity to sit in a line truck. Children were encouraged to wear their costumes, and received a yellow WH hard hat, glow sticks, snacks, and trick-or-treat bags.
Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric utility that provides power to rural Wright County and western Hennepin County. The cooperative has been a corporate citizen to the area since 1937 and currently serves more than 59,000 electric accounts. It is headquartered in Rockford, Minn.
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It's time to renew your 2025 Chamber membership!
We sincerely hope that you will continue to support the Rockford-Greenfield Chamber of Commerce by your continued support and membership.
“The Chamber is a voluntary organization of people with business, professional, and educational interests working together towards enhancing and improving the economic, civic, and cultural interests of our communities”.
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Rockford-Greenfield Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:
Rockford-Greenfield Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 413
Rockford, MN 55373
rockfordgreenfieldchamber@gmail.com
rgchamber.org
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