About GFCLT

Grand Forks Community Land Trust (GFCLT) is a nonprofit organization committed to creating and preserving permanently affordable homeownership opportunities in Grand Forks County. Since its founding in 2010, GFCLT has helped expand access to quality homes for people who may otherwise be priced out of the local housing market.

Our Mission

GFCLT’s mission is to create affordable homeownership opportunities that last by using the Community Land Trust model - a proven approach to keeping homes affordable for generations to come. The organization works to help families and individuals build stability, equity, and a lasting connection to community.

Our Story

GFCLT was incorporated in December 2010 as the first community land trust in the state of North Dakota, joining a nationwide network of CLTs that have been active for decades.

The idea for GFCLT grew out of local conversations about the need for more affordable ownership opportunities in Grand Forks. Early focus groups and community surveys helped shape the organization’s ground lease and approach. By mid-2011, the waiting list for GFCLT homes opened, and the first homes were developed shortly thereafter.

Our Leadership

GFCLT is led by three staff members with more than 50 years of combined experience in affordable housing in Grand Forks.

As Founder and Executive Director, Emily Contreras has guided the organization since the earliest conversations about establishing the first community land trust in North Dakota.

Crystal Bailly, Operations & Portfolio Manager, first joined GFCLT as a Board member in 2012 and transitioned to staff in 2019.

Aleasha Omlid, Homeownership Program Administrator, came on board in 2025, bringing over a decade of HUD and NDHFA experience.

Together, this team is deeply committed to expanding homeownership opportunities for households otherwise excluded by the local market. They also work to advance the impact of community land trusts through consulting and advocacy across North Dakota and Minnesota.

Governance & Community Roots

GFCLT is governed by a Board of Directors that includes community members and stakeholders committed to affordable housing. From the beginning, GFCLT has engaged community voices in shaping policies, partnerships, and neighborhood investment strategies.

Current Board of Directors

Adam Jordan
Matthew Leiphon
Kate Preszler

Darryl Jorgenson, President
Zachary Tomczik, Vice President
Eric Castle, Secretary
Ellie Reynolds, Treasurer

What Makes Us Different?

The Community Land Trust model allows homeowners to own the structure of their home while GFCLT retains ownership of the land under a long-term ground lease. This separation lowers the upfront cost of homeownership and preserves affordability over time.

In addition to land stewardship, GFCLT provides support throughout the homebuying process and beyond, including:

Pre-purchase guidance and education
Assistance working with lenders
Ongoing homeowner support and resources
A resale process that maintains affordability for the next buyer

These features make GFCLT distinct from one-time subsidy programs and help ensure long-term success for homeowners.

Board Member Interest Form

GFCLT’s volunteer Board of Directors plays an essential role in the organization’s growth and long‑term stewardship of the organization and our homeowners.

As a local nonprofit, we depend on committed community members who bring deep experience from diverse personal backgrounds and professional expertise. Their leadership strengthens our practices, supports our expansion, and fuels the creativity that magnifies our impact throughout Greater Grand Forks.

GFCLT is currently seeking additional Board members, with new appointments anticipated in late 2026 and early 2027. If you’re interested in serving, please complete the form below. A staff member will follow up after submission to share next steps in the process.

Board members are appointed to four-year terms and may be elected to a second four-year term. GFCLT implements a limit of two consecutive terms, though former Board members may return to the organization in the future.

Questions before submitting interest? Contact Emily at econtreras@gfclt.org.

Thank you for your interest in joining the GFCLT Board of Directors! Once your form is submitted, a member of the GFCLT staff will contact you regarding next steps.

Our Impact

Over the years, GFCLT has:

Developed and sold multiple homes in Grand Forks neighborhoods
Maintained a waiting list of households interested in affordable ownership
Partnered with local organizations and city leadership to support community revitalization
Served as a resource for expanding CLT practices statewide and beyond

Looking Ahead

GFCLT continues to pursue opportunities to acquire, rehabilitate, and develop homes in Grand Forks County. In partnership with community organizations and supporters, GFCLT is committed to expanding affordable homeownership options while maintaining the quality and character of neighborhoods.

Whether through new builds or rehabbing existing homes, GFCLT is focused on building a model of housing that works for today’s families and for the families of tomorrow.