Let's play house

Nonprofits need money. It's a fact. And fundraising is a pain in the butt. Also a fact. But when it's creative and relevant to an organization's mission, asking for money can be a lot more fun.



Minneapolis-based CommonBond Communities, an organization that works to provide affordable housing, generally works with real houses -- but they're switching to playhouses for a second to make some cash.



For just over a week, the six designer playhouses -- created by local corporations, builders, architects and volunteers -- will be on display at the Mall of America. And on the last day, they'll be auctioned and raffled off, and of course the money will go to support CommonBond's programs.



(I'm a journalism nerd -- I want Studio A.)