About

OUR CLIENTS RESTORE OUR NATION’S WATERS, SOIL, AND COMMUNITIES

We support them with program development, targeted connections, and clear communications.

We collaborate, cultivate common ground, build on client assets, and use the power of story to make “invisible” achievements visible and powerful in communities.

Transformation and respect anchor our work. We bridge the gap between science and public action, engaging people in the work of building a sustainable, living culture.

Leadership

NewGround principal Nancy North has been engaged with community-focused creative services since 1992, when she and a partner founded Envision: Design That Works, Inc. That business served colleges, universities, large nonprofits and entrepreneurial leaders.

In 2008 Nancy refocused as a communications mentor and strategist through NewGround. She is a Center For Whole Communities fellow, project developer, and advocate for citizen-led community transformation. She lives in Lanesboro, Minnesota with her husband, John.

Nancy North | Resume

Newground Clearly Presents Issues | Mississippi Valley Conservancy has permanently protected more than 16,000 acres in Wisconsin. NewGround developed an award-winning magazine, other publications and consulted for strategic outreach.
NewGround Connects People | During Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS) development, three Winona, Minn. citizen summits drew 100+ people each. NewGround played a central role in planning, organizing, promoting, hosting, and reporting on the events.
Newground Positions Organizations | Fishers & Farmers Partnership For the Upper Mississippi River Basin reduces erosion and nutrient runoff in the Midwest. NewGround interviewed stakeholders, contributed to a strategic plan, obtained funding, and developed identity and outreach tools.
Newground Mentors Leaders | Client Ohio River Basin Fish Habitat Partnership took time to understand opportunities and priorities in their complex region. NewGround facilitated a "meeting of the minds" and taught communications basics.
NewGround Educates | La Crosse Urban Stormwater Group educates to protect the Mississippi River from polluted runoff. NewGround developed its stormwater management learning site at Habitat For Humanity ReStore, engaged media, and involved citizens in construction.
NewGround Develops Strategy | Sara Lubinski's exhibit River Sojourn: A Painter's Portfolio of the Mississippi River Blufflands launched in 2014. NewGround developed outreach strategy, blog, and prospectus; secured bookings with museums; and developed relationships with conservation and funding partners.
NewGround Builds Participation | Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center and Eagle Bluff Skills School serve 22,000 people annually. Strong leadership and professional staff are growing that number with branding and production support from NewGround.

Learn how people like you are connecting for community action.