SeniorConnectionsHJ . COM Senior Connections November / December 2023
Dassel man helps Kenyan village survive and thrive
BY BRITTANY THIEMANN
Correspondant
In a presentation at the Dassel History Center & Ergot Museum , Dennis Bergquist shared his remarkable journey from a small-town farm to a life dedicated to international humanitarian work .
On Sept . 2 , the 80-year-old Bergquist captivated the audience with his inspiring story of unwavering dedication to the underprivileged , particularly in the Mwongeti Village of Kenya , according to participants .
Born and raised in Dassel , Bergquist ’ s early years were spent tending to cows and baling hay on his family ’ s farm . He didn ’ t have a globetrotting childhood , but destiny led him down a different path , one where he has spent decades making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate .
Bergquist ’ s global adventures began during his tenure in the dairy industry , where he gained insights into milk production practices across 52 countries , including Guatemala , Russia , China , Egypt , Romania , and Kenya . As a former Dairy Management professor at Ridgewater College for 26 years , he felt a calling to give back to the world and began his journey to help underprivileged communities by securing grants and resources . Bergquist founded his own company , Bergquist and Associates , and is the driving force behind The Bergquist Foundation .
Mwongeti Village in Kenya , home to approximately 6,000 people , faced numerous challenges before Bergquist ’ s involvement . The village lacked access to clean water , a school that met testing standards , a clinic , and even a basic corn mill . Destiny intervened when Bergquist met Damaris Oigo , a Kenyan nursing student recommended by a Ridgewater College coworker . Damaris shared her village ’ s plight , sparking Bergquist ’ s determination to make a difference .
The initial project centered on the construction of a modern school , equipped with three classrooms , electricity , latrines , and access to water . Thanks to the support of various organizations , including generous contributions from the Rotary Club , this dream became a reality .
Another issue Bergquist addressed was the arduous journey undertaken by village mothers to mill corn , often carrying infants . A two-hour walk each way , coupled with the hour spent at the mill , created an unbearable hardship . With grants and donations , Bergquist spearheaded the construction of a porshi mill , alleviating the mothers ’ burdens .
Bergquist , who hadn ’ t seen the village since its humble mud-wall schoolhouse days , visited Mwongeti last October to witness the transformation brought about by years of hard work . Water supply was a significant challenge for the village , and local clubs , from cities including Dassel , Cokato , Gaylord , Glencoe , Litchfield , and Hutchinson , combined efforts to secure funding . However , maintaining the water infrastructure became an issue when residents no longer paid for water . Bergquist intervened , using a tent and refreshments to engage with the community and emphasize the importance of self-sufficiency . The people responded by resuming payments for water services .
On Thursday , September 21 , Bergquist is set to secure a $ 9,200 grant , which will introduce three more kiosks with ATM readers in the village , providing further convenience to residents .
The latest milestone in Mwongeti Village is the Yvonne Marie Medical Centre , dedicated to providing medical care to those in need . Constructing a handicap-accessible clinic , complete with curbs , sidewalks , exam rooms , latrines for wheelchairs , and heated showers , came with significant expenses . The clinic , which aims to pass inspections for insurance acceptance , has garnered support from the community , with volunteers pitching in to paint the buildings .
The clinic ’ s future shines bright as it prepares to offer free medical care for expectant mothers and their babies , thanks to insurance coverage . To complement this effort , the
PHOTO BY COURTESY CAROLYN Dennis Bergquist is speaking about his international humanitarian work to participants during Red Rooster Days . Bergquist is also a 1960 graduate of Dassel High School .
“ Touch of Dassel ” initiative , led by Bergquist ’ s sister Marvel Erickson , involves the community in knitting baby hats and blankets for the clinic ’ s newborns .
Through his humanitarian work , Bergquist has not only made a lasting impact on the Mwongeti Village but also forged deep connections with Damaris and her family .
With unwavering dedication and a sense of purpose , Bergquist plans to continue his humanitarian work , believing that his calling is a gift from a higher power . His recently published book , titled “ From Milk to Missions ,” serves as a testament to his incredible journey of compassion and change .
SeniorConnectionsHJ . COM Senior Connections November / December 2023
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