The 507 Network

05/29/2026

The first networking meeting I ever walked into, I almost turned around and left.

Everyone seemed to know each other. There was an agenda. People were talking about referrals and one-on-ones and I had no idea what half of it meant.

I stayed. And I'm really glad I did.

Now I run one. Because I know what it feels like to be new, and I want to make sure nobody else has that same "maybe I should bolt" moment at the door.

You're welcome here from minute one.

05/29/2026

📣VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! We’ve had a small schedule shift with our first Summer Pack Delivery Day and need your help to make it a success!

Delivery day has moved from June 3 ➡️ June 10, and we’re looking for extra hands to help make sure every child receives the nourishment they need to learn, grow, play, and simply enjoy summer.

This program is a lifeline during the summer months, and volunteers, like YOU, make it all possible. Whether you can give an hour or a few, we’d love to have you join us!

📅 UPDATED DELIVERY DATE: June 10!
Sign up for a delivery route (or two!) here: https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/8lo911

Grab a friend, team up with coworkers, or make it a family activity! An hour of your time can create a summer filled with brighter days and bigger smiles for local children.

05/28/2026

05/28/2026

📢 Next week's featured presenter is Eric Geisthardt from GSW Exterior Specialists! 📢

Eric has over 30 years in the home improvement industry and he is not your typical contractor. No pushy sales tactics, no pushing you into something you don't need. He meets you where you are and works around your timeline and your budget.

GSW specializes in Gutters, Siding, and Windows, and their whole approach is pretty simple. Treat people like people, not transactions.

Come hear more about what Eric does and what sets GSW apart. We'd love to have you join us Wednesday, June 3rd at 8:30 AM. Link to register as a visitor is in the comments below 👇🏼

05/27/2026

📌 New here? Start here.

The 507 Network is Mankato's independent referral group, built by local professionals who were tired of paying more and getting less.

We meet every Wednesday at 8:30 AM. One seat per industry. Real referrals. Real relationships. No corporate BS.

We started this group because we believed local businesses deserve a referral network that actually reinvests in its community, keeps costs reasonable, and makes room for nonprofits at the table too. That's not the norm. We made it ours.

We're growing again, and we'd love to see if it's a fit for you.
Come check us out as a visitor before you commit to anything.
No pressure. No pitch. Just an hour to see if the room feels right.
👉 Register here: the507network.com/

05/27/2026

⭐ This week's star of the week was Heather Bierer with FOCP BackPack Food Program ⭐

Heather shared a thank you letter this week that honestly stopped the room. Someone who had used FOCP's services while they were working their way out of a really tough spot just wanted them to know how much it meant. That's the kind of work that reminds you why organizations like this matter so much.

FOCP helps feed kids right here in our local community. And one of the things that sets them apart is how simple they've made it to get help. No red tape, no income thresholds, no jumping through hoops. If you feel like you need help, that's enough. That's the whole qualification.

If you want to learn more about what they do, get involved, or even become a monthly donor, the link to their website is in the comments. And don't underestimate what a small contribution can do. Even $5 goes further than you'd think!

And if you want to meet Heather and the rest of our members, come visit a meeting! We're here every Wednesday at 8:30 AM.

05/27/2026

📢 This week's featured presenter was Chelsea O'Connell with Sean and Chelsea O'Connell - Edina Realty - Realtors! 📢

Two for the price of one. That's the deal when you work with Sean and Chelsea and honestly it's hard to beat.

These two are former teachers and it shows in the best way. They don't rush you through one of the biggest decisions of your life. They slow it down, walk you through every step, and actually make sure you understand what's happening along the way.

Buying or selling is on a lot of people's goal lists this year. If that's you, we've put the link to their website in the comments. Give them a call and just have a conversation to learn more about the process, what your options look like, and how to get started.

And if you want to meet Sean and Chelsea and the rest of our members, come visit a meeting! We're here at the Wow! Zone every Wednesday at 8:30 AM!

05/26/2026

We are thrilled to add a new element to Beer, Brats & Bourbon as we land at the Mankato Regional Airport on June 18th. Introducing the Destination Station, where you will find eight exciting trips of a lifetime from AMFund, American Fundraising Foundation.

Destinations Include: San Francisco, Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Croatia, Tuscany, Africa, and the Amalfi Coast.

All trips are valid for 3 years with no blackout dates and include a dedicated travel specialist to help you out. Bidding will be open for a limited time, so be ready to bid, win, and travel for our good cause!

Get your BBB ticket today: https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/dw86l8. Don’t drink? Don’t worry! Discounted tickets are available for Sober Supporters.

05/26/2026

I used to think networking was for a certain "type" of person.

You know the type. Polished. Outgoing. Always working the room. Remembered every name. Gave out cards like confetti.

I was not that person.

But here's what I figured out.. the best networkers aren't the loudest ones in the room. They're the most consistent and the most genuine. That's it.

You don't need to be a natural. You just need to show up and be real.

If you've ever thought "networking isn't for me," this group might change your mind.

05/22/2026

📢 Next week's featured presenter is Sean & Chelsea O'Connell with Edina Realty! 📢

Sean and Chelsea are former teachers who brought everything they loved about teaching into their real estate career. That means they actually slow down, make sure you understand what's happening, and don't let you feel lost in one of the biggest decisions of your life.

Buying or selling a home is a lot. They get that. Their whole approach is making sure their clients feel comfortable and heard every step of the way, not just pushed through the process.

Come hear more about what they do and what sets them apart. We'd love to have you join us Wednesday, May 27th at 8:30 AM. Register at https://the507network.com/