The Power of 100 Women – Ellsworth group awarded its $10,000 Fall 2026 Impact grant to local nonprofit Elsie’s Barnyard on Thursday, Oct. 8.

Mandy Fleming, founder of Elsie’s Barnyard, said having the support of the group is a blessing beyond the financial donation.

“Knowing that so many women in our community care about the families we serve at Elsie's Barnyard and are willing to help ensure our programs and services remain free is the greatest gift,” she said.

Fleming plans to use the funds to complete infrastructure improvements necessary to increase safety, accessibility, and ultimately better accommodate the families they serve.

“This is a $40,000 project,” Fleming said. “The impact award combined with the proceeds from our annual fundraiser will allow us to complete the work this spring.”

Fleming founded Elsie’s Barnyard (W6212 450^th Ave., Ellsworth) in 2022 as a way to support families of special needs children. Their mission is “to restore and strengthen the hearts, minds and souls of children and families facing adverse medical conditions through interacting with animals and nature.”

“We give participants the opportunity to grieve the difficult circumstances they face, acknowledge the adversity around them and celebrate the progress they have made,” their website states.

In 2025, Elsie’s Barnyard hosted 572 visits and 26 unique groups while volunteers provided 1,150 hours of service. To learn more, volunteer or donate, visit elsiesbarnyard.com

The other two finalists who presented at Thursday’s gathering were Eazi’s Way Rescue and the Maiden Rock Area Community Association.

Eazi’s Way Rescue is an Ellsworth area foster-based, all-breed, all-species rescue dedicated to helping both animals and the people who love them. They rescue and rehome animals of all kinds, including livestock.

“We believe rescue is about so much more than taking in animals. It's about building a stronger, more compassionate community where families can find support before they reach a crisis,” their website states.

Through the program, they provide:

• Animal food and supply assistance.
• Support for farmers and livestock owners in need.
• Partnerships with trusted local veterinarians to help animals receive the care they deserve.
• Assistance for families facing hardship, including help with veterinary bills, dog training, and temporary boarding when funding is available.
• Support for veterans, families experiencing domestic violence, and others going through difficult times.

Learn more at eaziswayrescue.com

The Maiden Rock Area Community Association promotes social interaction, economic vitality, appreciation and preservation of the unique history and natural beauty of Maiden Rock and the surrounding areas.

MRACA efforts foster a range of projects including the Maiden Rock Press, support for local families and organizations, beautification and education projects.

The group also hosts several free family-friendly events for the community each year, including Maiden Rock Country Christmas, Easter in the Park, Party in the Park, and more. To learn about the organization, donation and volunteer opportunities, visit maidenrock.org