ABOUT US

Lionsgate Foundation is administered by a volunteer board of directors and volunteers. Participants include community members and LGA alumni, parents, and staff.

Less than ten percent of money raised by the foundation is used for administration. The balance is distributed to fund projects and initiatives throughout the calendar year. 

In the past school year, the Foundation spent over $100,000 on projects that supported: 

  • Tuition reimbursement to Lionsgate Academy staff who have returned to college to secure advanced degrees and credentials.

  • Tickets and bussing to a Twins baseball game to reinforce math lessons, encourage community participation, and social connection with peers.

  • Regulation baskets, basketball hoops for movement breaks, specialized trikes for students with mobility-related challenges and other specialized fitness center equipment.

  • Items needed for running coffee carts for center-based students at 2 program locations, creating opportunities for students to learn new skills.

  • YMCA memberships for students in a specialized program to create opportunities to spend time in the community and engage in physical activities.

  • Innovative hands-on technology experiences for students such as funding an interactive Occupational Therapy-based software projected onto the floor and a laser cutter to expand creativity.

  • Partners in Purpose grants to organizations across the Twin Cities providing critical services, programming and support to neurodiverse individuals.

Board Meetings

The Foundation meets online monthly, the second Wednesday of the month, 6:30-7:30 pm.

Contact us if you would like to attend a meeting or learn more about the foundation: melainabjorklund@lionsgatefoundation.com

BOARD MEMBERS

  • Melaina Bjorklund, Chair

  • Lindsey Rose, Vice Chair

  • Najwa Howard, Treasurer

  • Vacant, Secretary

  • Liz Pearson

  • Julie Tarshish

  • Cristal Ratliff

  • Diane Restorff

  • Nicole Zickefoose

  • Emily Harris-Green

  • Marie Aceituno

2025 VOLUNTEERS

  • Christine Lande

  • Sheena Mazula

  • Rose Porwoll

  • Brittany Alexander

  • Heather Adams

  • Michelle Jirik

  • Janelle Nelson

  • Meta Thomas

  • Lisa Moss