About Us

Our Mission

Friends of Peterson, Inc., established as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization on January 1, 2016, is deeply rooted in the heart of our community. Our mission reflects our dedication to enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of Peterson:

  1. To promote a sense of community among residents and friends of Peterson;
  2. To promote the town of Peterson and tourism in the town of Peterson by facilitating and hosting a series of annual events, both independent of other communities or entities and in conjunction with other entities; and
  3. To use proceeds from the annual events for continuance of the annual events and to generate and donate surplus funds for town improvement projects agreed to or identified by the city council, Peterson Station Museum, or Peterson American Legion.

Our Journey

Our journey began with a simple yet profound aim: to continue the legacy of Gammel Dag Fest. This quest brought together a group of passionate volunteers who worked tirelessly, from securing donations to hosting events, all in the spirit of community enrichment. Our initiatives have always been community-driven, ranging from updating Gammel Dag Fest with cultural elements to beautifying our town with maroon and gold banners, reflecting Peterson's rich heritage.

2024 Board of Directors

Bonnie Elliott,
President

Tracy Seelbinder,
Vice President

Gail Barnard-Boyum,
Secretary

Martha Larson,
Auditor

Voting Members

Cyndy Gove, Jim Gove, Diane Lunderborg, Carin Hyter

Major Milestones

  • New Playground Installation: Our first major initiative involved installing a safe and engaging playground in the City Park.
  • Peterson Station Museum Annex: The annex, preserving the legacy of Peterson School District 232, stands as a testament to our commitment to historical preservation.
  • Welcoming Signage: Enhancing the town's entrance with a beautifully landscaped sign, reflecting the essence of Peterson.
  • Barefoot Trail: A unique addition, encouraging playful exploration and outdoor activities among our younger residents.
  • Veterans and Community Garden: A serene space honoring local veterans and providing a peaceful retreat for the community.

Ongoing and Future Initiatives

Our commitment to Peterson's development continues with various ongoing projects like the Barefoot Trail, the Memorial Garden Honoring John Erickson and our Veterans,, alongside our annual flagship events such as the Gammel Dag Fest and the July Music Series. Looking ahead, we are excited about our new website launch, further elevating Peterson's visibility as an ideal destination for living, entrepreneurship, and tourism.

Join us

Friends of Peterson invites you to be a part of our journey. Whether you're a resident, a friend of the town, or a visitor, there's always a way to contribute and be involved in our growing community. Together, we can continue to make Peterson a vibrant and welcoming place for all.