The Phoenix Foundation of the Boundary Communities is pleased to welcome Melanie Leslie as the Foundation’s new President.
Melanie has called the Boundary home for the past eight years after arriving in Grand Forks just 7 days before the catastrophic flood of 2018. Experiencing that event firsthand immersed her almost immediately in the strength, resilience, and connectedness of small-town community life. Watching people come together to support one another during such a difficult time left a lasting impression and sparked a deep appreciation for the power of community.
That experience inspired a passion for community involvement that continues to shape her work today. Melanie’s background includes many years in business management before transitioning into nonprofit community work, giving her a blend of operational experience and people-centered leadership. Through her work in nonprofit senior services, volunteer engagement, leadership, and community support, she brings both practical experience and heartfelt enthusiasm to the Foundation.
She is inspired by grassroots efforts and the ripple effect created when people contribute their time, talents, and ideas toward a shared vision. Melanie is also passionate about collaboration and the idea that communities are strongest when organizations, volunteers, businesses, and residents work together toward shared goals.
As President, Melanie sees the Foundation’s role as helping support and guide positive growth throughout the Boundary region so the entire community can benefit from a “better Boundary.” She believes meaningful change often happens through many small acts of care, generosity, and commitment, and hopes to help foster connection, encourage community participation, and continue supporting the passionate people who make the Boundary such a special place to live.
