Minnesota-based nonprofit expands into North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin in 2013 as program seeks to triple number of families it supports in the Midwest.

The (Real) Power 50 recognizes Minnesotans who make things happen – the connectors in their industries, the hearts of the operation. Among the 50 people being honored at this year’s Minnesota Business magazine awards showcase is Erich Mische, the Executive Director of Spare Key.

Spare Key is a nonprofit that provides assistance to Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin homeowners with a critically ill or seriously injured child by making housing payments on the family’s behalf, allowing parents to remain key members in their child’s hospital care and recovery. Spare Key allows families to “Bounce and Not Break.”

Mische joined Spare Key in 2012 after nearly 30 years in government, politics, and the private sector. A former White Bear Lake City Council member, Mische has been a leading figure in Minnesota government and politics for decades.

Since his arrival, the Minnesota-based nonprofit has expanded to assist families in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, all while planning to triple its mortgage grants this year. Mische’s leadership has catapulted Spare Key’s rapid growth throughout the Upper Midwest, positioning the organization to see substantial program growth in the future.

“The Spare Key Board of Directors is pleased that Erich is receiving this recognition,” said Rob Roe, President of the Spare Key Board of Directors. “Erich will be the first to tell you that the success of Spare Key in the past 14 months is a tribute to the combined efforts of a re-energized Board of Directors, a commitment from our donors, and a strong need for our program services throughout the region. We’re thrilled to be moving Spare Key to the next level on behalf of thousands of families throughout the Upper Midwest.”