Community Roots, Bold Impact: The Pancratz Family Foundation Joins the Journey

The Grand Forks Children’s Museum has unlocked yet another ‘key,’ and this one

comes with a story woven deeply into the fabric of Grand Forks itself. The Pancratz Family Foundation has stepped forward with a leadership gift that brings the museum one step closer to unlocking the full $2 million anonymous donor match.

For the Pancratz Family Foundation, this donation was what Linda and her daughter Elizabeth (known to many as Lizzy) called a “triple whammy.” Their foundation is dedicated to making impactful investments that create opportunity, change lives, and strengthen communities across North Dakota and Colorado. The Foundation has a special focus on education, women, and children — and the Grand Forks Children’s Museum touches all three.

When Linda and Lizzy called to share the news, their excitement was palpable. They spoke about how the museum’s mission aligns perfectly with the values their foundation was built upon: sparking curiosity, supporting families, and ensuring that every child has access to places that help them learn, grow, and thrive. Their commitment reflects not only their philanthropic vision but also their personal connection to Grand Forks.

Linda grew up in Grand Forks, graduating alongside many familiar names in our community. These relationships, built over decades, have quietly yet staunchly supported the momentum behind this project. Linda’s continued involvement in major initiatives like the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and the University of North Dakota speaks to her deep belief in investing in places that help shape future generations.

Our relationship with Linda stretches back to the earliest days of imagining what the Grand Forks Children’s Museum could become. Years ago, we traveled to Fargo to meet with Linda and the CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. She welcomed the chance to hear our earliest ideas — including the possibility of a Chihuly installation. Linda’s advice then was simple but powerful: dream big. She reminded us that people may try to shrink your vision, but bold ideas are worth pursuing. During our recent conversation, she reflected on that same advice, noting how meaningful it is to see those early dreams taking shape.

The Foundation’s decision to support the Grand Forks Children’s Museum is another reflection of that belief: a gift rooted in legacy, friendship, and a shared vision for what this community can offer its children.

The Pancratz Family Foundation’s leadership gift is more than a donation. It is a vote of confidence… a spark of momentum… and a powerful reminder that when people invest in children, they invest in the future of the entire region.

With this donation, another leadership gift has been unlocked, leaving only two keys remaining to realize the full $2 million match. Thank you, Linda, Lizzy, and the entire Pancratz Family Foundation. With your generosity, the museum moves forward with renewed energy, gratitude, and purpose.

Katie Mayer, Grand Forks Children's Museum Executive Director