Herman Foundation of Minnesota

Herman Community Center: where community comes together

In the heart of downtown Herman, the old Wells-Olson building site is being turned into a modern community center, a place where residents can come together for any occasion, whether it’s to raise a hand at a town hall meeting, raise funds at a benefit for a local family, or raise the roof at a community dance!     

Not just a big room

We have a vision for our new building, one that’s full of community pride and community spirit. We see it used as an event center, large enough to accommodate wedding receptions, family reunions, trade shows and more. It will also be a government center housing the clerk’s office and city council chamber, and serving as the town hall meeting room. In addition it will house the American Legion post 378, a new senior center and a community library.

An idea is hatched

In 2013, members of the local American Legion post came to the Herman Development Corporation with an idea. The Legion’s 40-year-old Legion building, which has served as the community’s gathering place for large meetings and special events, needed significant rehabilitation. The Legion could exhaust its funds in refurbishing its building or the post could sell the property and invest that money in another facility — a community center in which it could rent space. Herman is one of few communities in this area (perhaps around the state) that does not have a true community center.  

The Herman Development Corporation decided to purchase the old Wells-Olson building, excellently situated in the heart of downtown Herman. A fundraising and planning committee was formed, and an architect hired to develop a concept and floor plan.  

An outpouring of support

1. In late January, the Herman Development Corporation hosted a town hall meeting to share ideas about the community center. Since then we have talked to a number of area residents one-on-one about the benefits of the center and the importance of their donations to make it a reality. The response has been overwhelming. So far, we have received cash donations and pledges totaling more than $570,000, payable over a three-year period. We have applied for and continue to pursue grant opportunities.  American Legion Post 378 will donate money once it has sold its property. At some point the city of Herman will become the owner of the center.

Build Community--Donate Today 

The Herman Foundation has raised $570,000 toward the Herman Community Center, thanks to the generosity of many area residents. Our goal is to raise an additional $150,000 in cash and pledges, which we believe with your help is very achievable.

We invite you to become a part of this community-raising venture through a contribution to the Herman Community Center. 

Thank you for caring about our community.