About

Our story

In 2023, when a Minnesota school superintendent shared that an increasing number of children were having their education interrupted because their families faced homelessness, we knew we had to act.

That urgent need inspired the creation of BrighterFutures.Life, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting families with housing stability, keeping children in school and providing a pathway toward a brighter future.

We believe that families facing crisis deserve support, guidance, and a compassionate community to help them build stability and a brighter future. When parents are empowered to overcome financial challenges and feel truly supported, children thrive—at home, in school, and in every part of their lives.

We provide families:

  • Monthly partial rent subsidy to stabilize family cash flow and prevent eviction
  • A budget coach to teach financial skills and set goals
  • Family partners who provide friendship, encouragement and guidance
  • Introductions to community resources and services as needed
Mother and daughter working on homework

Our mission

Our goal is to help families build lasting stability, strengthen resilience and move toward a brighter future filled with hope.

Our values

  • Compassion: We meet every family with empathy, dignity and respect.
  • Empowerment: We equip parents with tools, guidance and community.
  • Hope: We help families envision and pursue a brighter future filled with new possibilities.
  • Integrity: We act with transparency, accountability and unwavering commitment to the families we serve.
Parents and kids together

Our team

The Brighter Futures team is passionately committed to impacting families in our community. We bring a depth of experience and a shared dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors.

John Rasmussen

John Rasmussen

Executive Director

Kathy Girthofer

Director

Maddie Meeker

Housing Assistance Associate

Nicole Brush

Community & Volunteer Engagement Associate

Refer a family

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Partner with us

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Volunteer

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Refer a family

Find out how your referral can open the door for a family to access support, stability and a brighter future.

Partner with us

Learn how your organization can partner with Brighter Futures to provide critical housing solutions and support for families and students in your community.