Corporate Donors
We’re deeply grateful to our corporate supporters. See a list of companies that contribute to The DanO Fund, and learn about becoming a donor.
The DanO Fund is governed by a board of directors comprised of key DanO supporters. This core group oversees the activities and initiatives of The DanO Fund, and sets a strategic course for the future of the fund.
Board Members
Mark Olsen, Co-Founder of The DanO Fund
At The DanO Fund, Mark orchestrates fundraiser events, including the Golf Tournament and Derby Party, and online fundraisers. And if you send a message to The DanO Fund, he’s usually the one to write back.
Marit Ernesti, Treasurer
Marit (Olsen) Ernesti is a founding Director of the DanO Fund, primarily responsible for maintaining the financial records for the organization. She has worked in public accounting since 2007 and advises clients with a specialty in international tax.
In addition to serving clients, Marit holds a leadership role in her firm’s Community Impact network, helping to develop next-generation leaders through lifelong learning. Marit has used this platform to share her family’s experience with mental illness, and both support and champion the need for various mental illness education initiatives in offices throughout the country. Marit holds an active CPA license in the state of Minnesota and currently resides in Eagan with her husband and two young children.
Ed Corbett
I’m passionate about extending resources to individuals in suicidal crisis and emotional distress. I know firsthand, the feeling of helplessness and the importance of raising awareness around the stigma of mental health.
I’ve held Board of Directors positions for local community organizations and look forward to bringing my experience to The DanO Fund initiatives. My past volunteer and leadership efforts resulted in “Chamber Volunteer of the Year” and “Rotarian of the Year” recognition.
I grew up in Richfield, Minnesota, and met Dan in 1981. I worked with the entire Olsen family at Hub Jewelers starting in 1986. Since 2009, I’ve supported The DanO Fund as a sponsor, event participant, and donor. My wife, Diane, and I have five children and seven grandchildren.
Gene Kelm
John Perrier
Dean Shaffer
Awareness can be one of the greatest tools to help people understand the issues surrounding mental illness. I personally have supported friends, parents, young adults, and family members in suicide situations who were desperate to escape the pain of living.
I was born in Rochester, MN, and attended college in Iowa. I’ve owned Flowerama in Apple Valley since 2001 and previously held a District Manager position in Illinois. In 2014, I earned recognition from the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce as “Entrepreneur of the Year”. The following year I received the “Dakota County United Educators Award” for my commitment to student success.
As a Farmington resident, I live with my wife, Lisa, and have two children. Our family business is dedicated to making someone’s life better each day. We’ve supported countless fundraisers and we’re proud to serve as a recurring event sponsor for The DanO Fund.
