Reporter | Nonprofits, charity and philanthrophy

Smith was born in Duluth and grew up in the Twin Cities. She graduated from the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minn., and worked for the Forum newspaper in Fargo, N.D., before coming to the Star Tribune in 2010.


Minneapolis-based Questscope helps earthquake victims in Syria

Questscope, affiliated with Minneapolis-based Alight, is assisting Syrian villages after the deadly Feb. 6 earthquake.


Science Museum blames budget shortfall for latest layoffs

The St. Paul museum laid off 15 people last week in the latest round of layoffs, citing COVID-related revenue losses.


Foshay Tower observation deck touts panoramic views of Minneapolis year-round

Go to one of the city's most iconic buildings for the view; stay for the story behind it.


State's food shelves seek boost as demand rises to record

Across Minnesota, food shelves are rallying for donated food and cash this month to help them meet the demand from a growing number of Minnesotans in need.


These are the 50 defendants charged in the Feeding Our Future fraud case in 2022

Ten additional defendants were charged March 13, bringing the total to 60.


Legislation would offer tax incentive encouraging charitable donations

The Charitable Act, introduced this month by 11 senators including Sen. Amy Klobuchar, would allow taxpayers who take the standard deduction to deduct some charitable donations.


Minnesota Historical Society employees win pay boost in tentative contract agreement

The union contract, one of the first to be negotiated by a Minnesota nonprofit, will need approval by workers.


Lt. Gov. Flanagan to assume state's top job Monday while Walz has colonoscopy

Gov. Tim Walz will briefly transfer power Monday to Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan while he's undergoing a colonoscopy, and he's expected to be back to work Tuesday.


Farmington teen dies in car crash

Rodrigo Leon Dooley died after a collision in Vermillion Township, west of Hastings.


Plymouth police investigate fatal shooting

One man was killed in the shooting late Saturday at a Plymouth home.