About the Organization
About the Organization
Carrington Rainbow Gardens
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving local history while creating a new cultural and natural destination for the Carrington community.
A Community-Driven Nonprofit
Carrington Rainbow Gardens (CRG) is a nonprofit organization established in 2023 and organized under North Dakota law.
The organization was created to honor the legacy of the historic Rainbow Gardens while developing a new Japanese-inspired garden and interpretive destination in downtown Carrington.
CRG operates as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, allowing contributions to be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Through collaboration with local leaders, businesses, and community members, the organization is working to bring this vision to life.
Our Mission
To preserve and share the story of Rainbow Gardens and Harry Hayashi while creating a meaningful public space that brings people together through history, nature and community connection.
Our Purpose
Carrington Rainbow Gardens exists to create a place where:
- Local history is preserved and shared
- Visitors can experience a unique cultural destination
- The community has a space for reflection and gathering
- Future generations can connect with Carrington’s heritage
Leadership & Board of Directors
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is guided by a group of local leaders with experience in tourism, education, horticulture, construction, and community development.
Together, they provide strategic direction, oversight and operational support for the project.
Board Members
Wendy Wise
Tourism Operations & Hospitality Lead
General Manager of The Chieftain Conference Center and Carrington Inn & Suites; Vice-Chair of the Carrington Convention and Visitors Bureau. Wendy brings extensive experience in hospitality, tourism marketing, and group travel coordination, helping shape visitor experiences and outreach strategies.
Gabi Abud
Operations & Marketing Director
Executive Director of the Carrington Chamber and Economic Development Corporation. Gabi leads day-to-day operations and contributes expertise in digital marketing, community engagement, tourism development and grant management.
Cathy Paulson
Education & Heritage Coordinator
Retired educator and leader within the Foster County Historical Society. Cathy supports interpretive content, educational programming and historical accuracy, ensuring alignment with regional heritage initiatives.
Jesse Schroeder
Landscape & Construction Lead
Owner of Schroeder Landscape & Excavation. Jesse oversees landscape implementation, construction coordination and maintenance planning, ensuring design integrity and accessibility.
Dennis Swanson
Chairman – Horticulture & Fundraising Lead
Master gardener and experienced agricultural professional. Dennis contributes to horticultural planning, plant selection and grassroots fundraising efforts.
Mayor Tom Erdmann
Vice-Chair – Government Liaison & Infrastructure Oversight
Mayor of Carrington. Tom supports coordination with city leadership, infrastructure planning and alignment with public initiatives.
Roger Gussiaas
International Fundraising & Trade Relations
Owner of Healthy Oilseeds; Member of the North Dakota Trade Office. Roger brings international perspective and supports donor outreach and partnership development.
Nikki Mertz
Strategic Oversight & Economic Development Advisor
Certified General Appraiser and former Economic Development Director. Nikki provides expertise in land use, valuation and long-term strategic planning.
Partners and Community Support
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is supported by a network of local organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders who share a commitment to preserving history and strengthening the future of Carrington.
This collaborative approach ensures that the project reflects the values and priorities of the community it serves.
Governance and Transparency
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is committed to responsible stewardship, transparency and accountability.
As a nonprofit organization, CRG operates under established governance practices and works to ensure that all contributions are used to support the development and long-term success of the project.
Project updates, milestones, and progress will be shared publicly to keep supporters informed throughout each phase of development.
Built with the community in mind
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is designed to reflect the identity, history, and aspirations of the Carrington community.
The project brings together public, private, and community partners to create a destination that serves both residents and visitors.
By working collaboratively, CRG aims to create a space that is meaningful, accessible, and lasting.
Learn more or get involved
Carrington Rainbow Gardens is a community effort and there are many ways to support the project.