Cook County is located in a rugged, beautiful landscape, includes the Lake Superior Band of Chippewa, and has been designated as a frontier region (a sparsely populated area isolated from population centers and services). 1.2 million visitors are welcomed annually, which can create complex challenges for local health and safety services and affects the safety net for our 5,600 permanent residents. Nearly a quarter of families face a cost-of-living crisis. 52% of students receive free or reduced lunch. Families face a childcare shortage, an extreme shortage of affordable housing, food insecurity issues, and a large population aging in place over the next decade. Grounded in the unique landscape of Northeastern Minnesota, we strive to weave healing relationships and meet the needs of all residents and visitors.

Vital North Foundation strives to act inclusively in all that it does. The Vital North Foundation recognizes the diversity of human differences, and values the inherent worth of all people. Vital North Foundation does its work with compassion and inclusivity by creating healthy communities with partners and in the conduct of its business internally. Vital North Foundation recognizes that health and well-being are directly connected to honoring the truth and wholeness of each person. Toward that end it strives to respect and support diverse identities in the communities it serves. Vital North Foundation endeavors to be nimble and open to teachings from those communities so that it can serve as an ally and partner in creating greater equity and inclusion for all in Cook County. Vital North Foundation ask all partners and grantees to honor these values in our work together.