Litchfield, Minn., woman converts operation into for-profit to help non-profits with fundraising and missions

LITCHFIELD -- Is there a profit to be made helping the many nonprofits striving to raise funds for their cause?

Kathy Lotzer of rural Litchfield believes the answer is a resounding "yes," and that she has the perfect formula and place to make it possible.

Lotzer has converted her former, non-profit Developing Winning Personalities operation into a for-profit business to help nonprofits with their fundraising and missions.

Her seven-acre site outside of Litchfield offers day activities for young people.

Rock wall climbing, mini-golf, remote-control car racing, go-carts, disc golf, paintball, and a walking trail are among the on-campus amenities.

She is making more than the site available for fund raising events. She intends to also offer an overall package that would include promotional literature and a special puppet show.

Lotzer worked previously with Heidi Stutelberg and her son, Michael, to create a "Jan & Jenny'' series of books focused on stories about helping others. The mother and son duo are ready to continue the story line by producing versions for a variety of clients, said Lotzer.

Lotzer originally created Developing Winning Personalities as a Christian-based outreach camp for young people. It currently serves as host site for parties and events. She also brings the rock climbing wall to events.

Lotzer said she'd like to put more of her focus on boosting non-profits. Her own experience with the challenge of raising funds can be an asset, she said.

She is inspired by good things that many nonprofits do, and wants to see them succeed, she explained.

If that translates into an economic plus as well, it's all the better. "My goal out there is to create jobs for people,'' she said.

She can be reached at 320-221-3242, on a Developing Winning Personalities Facebook page, or by email at dwp@hutchtel.net