The Spirit of Okoboji

The Spirit of Okoboji is a non-profit organization located in Okoboji, Iowa. It was founded in 2017 by Tim Kinnetz, following his successful transaction of GrapeTree Medical Staffing, which he had founded in 1999[1].

Mission and Values

The Spirit of Okoboji aims to improve lives by creating and fostering opportunities available to residents and visitors in the Okoboji area. The organization emphasizes community unity and regional success through various initiatives such as music programs, museum support, conservation efforts, and planning for a new sports and entertainment center[1][2].

The organization's values include a drive to achieve goals, generosity of time and talents, utilizing diverse skills, sharing passion for the community, empathy, and collaboration[1].

Initiatives

• Okoboji Music Masters: This initiative aims to bring together exceptional local musicians to perform during the summer season, enhancing community entertainment and cultural offerings[1][4].
• OkoboTree: This project focuses on preserving and enhancing the beauty of trees in the area through visual art, such as sculptures made from expired trees[1][4].
• Lakes Area Museum Alliance (LAMA): A coalition of 13 local museums working together to promote historical preservation, increase museum visibility, and enhance tourism in the Okoboji area[1][4].
• Friends of the Abbie Gardner Cabin Historic Site: Focused on preserving the historic Abbie Gardner Cabin with guidance from the Iowa Cultural Affairs Department[4].
• The Okoboji Glacier: A proposed multi-sport, recreation, events, and entertainment facility intended to provide a vibrant community space[4].

Structure

As of recent updates, the Board of Directors includes several accomplished professionals dedicated to advancing the organization's mission:

• Tim Kinnetz: Founder and Chairman
• John Adams Jr.: Owner of the Lakes News Shopper
• Brian Downing: Principal of Okoboji High School
• Kathy Fahy: Owner of K Brand Marketing
• Amanda Shaffer: Chief Financial Officer of the YMCA of the Okoboji’s
• Curt Strouth: President/CEO of Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation[2].

The organization also operates with the support of a dedicated team of volunteers[1].

Financial Overview

The Spirit of Okoboji has reported revenues primarily from grants and contributions. For the fiscal year ending in 2022, the organization reported total revenues of approximately $832,945[3].

Impact

Through its efforts, The Spirit of Okoboji contributes to the enrichment of the Okoboji experience, promoting tourism and fostering a vibrant community spirit in the Iowa Great Lakes region[1][2].

[1] https://www.spiritofokoboji.org/about-us [2] https://www.lakescorridor.com/our-story/news/p/item/61060/spirit-of-okoboji-welcomes-five-new-board-members [3] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/okoboji-botanical-gardens,822954269/ [4] https://www.spiritofokoboji.org [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/82-2954269