Today, your gift can help a person with disabilities experience a sense of belonging, purpose, and independence.

Because of supporters like you, people with disabilities are building friendships, cultivating talents, and finding their place in the community.

One of those people is Anthony Larson.

Four years ago, Anthony Larson moved to Little Falls seeking connection and opportunity. Today, he is a teacher, artist, volunteer, musician, and friend. He teaches taekwondo, shares his creativity through art and music, and enjoys meaningful relationships in his community.

These opportunities did not happen by chance.

With support from EEI, Anthony has the encouragement, resources, and individualized programming he needs to pursue his goals and participate fully in community life.

Today, your gift can help another person with disabilities experience the same sense of belonging, purpose, and independence.

Anthony lives with mental and physical disabilities, but he does not let those challenges define him.

One of Anthony’s passions is martial arts. He is a fourth-degree black belt in taekwondo, “technically a master” he says. He teaches at the taekwondo studio in town, where his students range from kids age three to adults.

Anthony is also passionate about music and art. He plays multiple instruments and likes to write music about his life. In addition he likes to draw, especially cartoon characters. Being creative helps him express himself and connect with others.

Since joining the EEI Discover program in July of 2025, Anthony has found many opportunities to explore his interests, develop leadership skills, and strengthen community connections.

Located in downtown Little Falls, Discover focuses on community involvement through activities and experiences. Anthony enjoys spending time with peers, exploring downtown, and participating in group projects.

This summer Discover individuals entered collaborative group projects in the Morrison County Fair. Discover staff also supported individuals who wanted to enter projects on their own, so Anthony proudly entered a project about taekwondo.

Anthony found friendship, belonging, and purpose at Discover.

At EEI, Anthony is surrounded by people who encourage him, celebrate his accomplishments, and support his goals. Whether he is helping decorate the Discover site, leading activities, volunteering, or spending time with friends, Anthony is building the meaningful life he wants.

Your support makes experiences like these possible.

While Anthony is thriving today, programs like Discover require ongoing funding to provide staff, transportation, community activities, creative opportunities, and individualized services.

That is why I’m asking for your help today.

Your gift will help ensure people with disabilities have opportunities to build relationships, learn new skills, contribute to their communities, and pursue their dreams.

A gift of any amount makes a difference.

Your generosity helps create opportunities for individuals like Anthony to become teachers, artists, volunteers, leaders, and friends.

Will you make your most generous gift today?

Together, we can help more individuals discover their strengths, build lasting relationships, and experience the independence and belonging that every person deserves.

Please donate as generously as you can today:

• Text “Donate” or “Give” to 866-570-0979
• Make an online donation by clicking “Donate” on www.eeimn.org
• Donate by check to EEI at P.O. Box 303, Little Falls, MN 56345
• Visit in person at 307 Ninth Avenue, NW, Little Falls, MN 56345
• Include EEI in your will.
• Call Kathy Rutz at 320-639-2432 or email eei@eeimn.org to arrange a tour to learn more about how you can get involved with EEI.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to belong, contribute, and live a meaningful life.

Because of supporters like you, Anthony’s story is possible.

And together, we can help create more stories like his.

Warmly,

Kathy Rutz

Executive Director

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