Empowering Rural Communities

Free Assistance for Nonprofits and Rural Areas

Strengthen ND provides expert guidance and support to help rural communities and nonprofits thrive. Our services include nonprofit incorporation, startup assistance, funding source identification, and proposal review.

Cher Hersrud

With 40 years of experience working in North Dakota’s rural communities, Cher Hersrud is a seasoned expert in nonprofit incorporation, startup assistance, funding strategies, and proposal review. Her extensive background ensures that rural communities and nonprofits receive the support they need to succeed.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Book an appointment with Cher Hersrud to receive personalized assistance for your rural community or nonprofit organization. Fill out the form below to get started.

Rural Community Resources

The Art of Reopening: A Guide to Current Practices Among Arts Organizations During COVID-19

Building Sustainable Farms, Ranches and Communities

Embrace the Naysayers: Strengthen ND's Rural Short Stories Series

A Rural Community Opportunity: Beautify Your Community While Helping the Bees and Butterflies

Urban Agriculture Toolkit

USDA Food Supply Chain Funding

Strengthen ND Succession Road Map

Shared Kitchen Toolkit: A Practical Guide to Planning, Launching, and Managing a Shared-Use Commercial Kitchen

A Perspective on Rural Community Success

Rural Community Project Planning:
Six Steps to Make Projects More Successful

USDA Rural Workforce Guide for Rural Workforce Development

Wilton Public School District: A Full Service Community School Example

Rural Community Survey

The Incredible Impact of AmeriCorps in North Dakota

The Incredible Impact of AmeriCorps in North Dakota

The Incredible Impact of AmeriCorps in North Dakota If you've ever wondered about the power of community service, look no further than the AmeriCorps program's effects in North Dakota. This initiative has inspired countless individuals to serve their communities and...

9 Ways Nonprofits Can Prepare for Success in 2024

9 Ways Nonprofits Can Prepare for Success in 2024

9 Ways Nonprofits Can Prepare for Success in 2024 As we venture into the new year, it's time to take stock and plan ahead. For nonprofits like Strengthen ND, it's crucial to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to changes, and settle on goals for the future. Here are nine...

Celebrating Five Years of the Strong Farms Incubator

Celebrating Five Years of the Strong Farms Incubator

Celebrating Five Years of the Strong Farms Incubator! It's hard to believe that five years ago, we embarked on a mission to transform North Dakota's agricultural landscape. Our vision was clear: to nurture, support, and grow a new generation of farmers through the...

Who is Strengthen ND?

Who is Strengthen ND?

When it comes to building strong communities, every little bit helps. That's why organizations like Strengthen ND are so important. This nonprofit works tirelessly to support local businesses, bring people together, and create a better future for North Dakota as a...

Let’s Talk About Launching Leadership

Let’s Talk About Launching Leadership

Strong communities are the backbone of any society and are essential for the progress and prosperity of a nation. The development of a community is not only about improving its infrastructure or logistics but also stems from the individual growth of its members....

Let’s Talk About AmeriCorps

Let’s Talk About AmeriCorps

As a community, we often forget the valuable contributions that volunteers make to society. One program that has been a significant supporter of the local communities is AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps offers individuals the opportunity to serve communities across the United...

Bush Prize: North Dakota Winners

Bush Prize: North Dakota Winners

NEWS RELEASE For immediate release, October 17, 2023 Contact information Megan Langley Executive Director Strengthen ND 701.303.0840 megan@strengthennd.com Two Organizations Named Bush Prize: North Dakota Winners Minot, N.D. — Strengthen ND and the Bush Foundation are...