Local Coffee Shop & Shelter Recognized for Exceptional Community Impact

The Door of Laporte was named 2025 winner of Minnesota’s Touchstone Energy Community Award. The award was presented on February 19 at the Minnesota Rural Electric Association’s annual meeting in St. Paul.

Selected from local honorees across the state, The Door was recognized not only for its service but for its unique model of blending business with compassion. The organization received a crystal award and a $2,000 grant to further its mission of supporting those in need.

“This annual award was established to help recognize organizations with a strong commitment to their local communities, similar values to those of Minnesota’s Touchstone Energy cooperatives,” said Joe Miller, director of communications at Minnesota Rural Electric Association.

The Door operates as both a cozy coffee shop and an emergency shelter in Laporte, Minnesota, offering temporary housing, meals, and essential resources to those in need. Every cup of coffee purchased directly supports these life-changing services, blending business with compassion. More than just a café, The Door is a beacon of hope, stability, and transformation—one cup at a time.

"Our communities are fortunate to have numerous individuals and organizations dedicated to making a meaningful difference," said Jared Echternach, President and CEO of Beltrami Electric Cooperative. "As a Touchstone Energy cooperative, we are proud to recognize and honor those who positively impact our communities through their time, effort, and commitment."

Touchstone Energy is a national network of electric cooperatives across 46 states dedicated to the values of integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to community.  

With this recognition, The Door continues to serve as an inspiration and a lifeline, proving that small acts of kindness—like a warm cup of coffee—can make a life-changing impact.