How The Landing MN Began
A story rooted in compassion, community, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe place to land.
In 2017, what would eventually become The Landing MN began as a conversation between Dan and Holly Fifield — two healthcare professionals who spent their careers caring for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
At the time, Holly worked in oncology at Mayo Clinic while Dan served in the Emergency Department. Together, they saw firsthand how easily individuals and families could fall through the cracks during times of crisis.
What started as an idea for a peaceful retreat space gradually evolved into something much larger: a community-centered place where people experiencing homelessness or hardship could find support, stability, and connection.
The name “The Landing” first emerged during this early stage of dreaming and planning. Over time, it came to represent exactly what Dan and Holly hoped to create — a place where people could pause, regroup, and begin taking steps forward.
That vision became more urgent in 2018 after Dan encountered a young family experiencing homelessness while working in the Emergency Department. The experience highlighted how limited and difficult-to-access support systems could be for people navigating crisis situations in Rochester.
Moved by what they were seeing in their community, Dan and Holly decided to take action.
Together, they began laying the foundation for an organization centered on dignity, compassion, and practical support — a place designed not only to meet immediate needs, but also to help people reconnect with resources, relationships, and hope.
Since then, The Landing MN has grown into a community-supported nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability throughout Rochester and surrounding areas.
What began as a small idea has become a collaborative effort powered by staff, volunteers, community partners, donors, and guests themselves — all working together to create a more compassionate and connected community.
Though Dan and Holly have stepped back from the organization’s day-to-day operations, their early vision helped establish the foundation The Landing MN continues to build upon today.
At its core, The Landing MN remains committed to creating a welcoming place where every person is treated with humanity, respect, kindness, and grace.