A History of Collaboration and an Inspired Future

The City of Thief River Falls, Northland Community and Technical College, and ISD 564 have been working together since 1996 to collaboratively operate the Multi Events Center (MEC) in Thief River Falls, MN.  Over the the last 20 years, there have been several changes in the community, opportunities, and in the composition of the board. Michelle Landsverk was contracted by the MEC Joint Powers Board to help reinvigorate the partnership through collaborative development of a vision, mission, and core values, as well as revising the Joint Powers Board agreement.

Collaboration is powerful, but successful, long-term collaborations such as the MEC in Thief River Falls, require commitment and careful management. In instances like this, where collaboration has been occurring for decades, it is helpful to reaffirm or revise the vision and mission, and to answer the question: “what is our purpose?”

MEC partners agreed on the following vision, mission, and core values statements.

Vision

The MEC (Multi-Event Center) is recognized as a premier destination for year-round recreational experiences and sporting events.

Mission

To operate quality recreational and sport facilities that promote
healthy activities.

Core Values

• Collaboration—we believe in working together to accomplish our goals.
• Community—we believe the MEC plays an important role in fostering a sense of community spirit and pride.
• Families and Children—we believe in the importance of recreation and physical activity for our community’s families and children.
• Quality Facilities—we believe that the community and MEC partners are best served through quality facilities.
• Excellence—we believe in serving our individual institutions and the public with excellence.
  Future—we believe in planning and investing for the long