During a child care crisis in the southern Minnesotan town Blooming Prairie, Amy Hinzmann launched Leo Augusta Children’s Academy, a nonprofit child care and education center that can serve 134 children. Opened in June 2022, the academy began with seven children; today, it serves nearly 70 from a 20-mile radius. As board chair, Hinzmann oversees day-to-day operations with the academy director, providing support in finance, human resources, marketing, and grant writing. The academy employs 25 full- and part-time employees, contributing to more than $900,000 of additional tax base to the Blooming Prairie community. Hinzmann brings her passion for uplifting rural caregivers, families, and child care beyond the academy by promoting awareness with local, state, and federal players.