We support local businesses, entrepreneurs and families to foster economic mobility and provide grants and programs that create opportunities for all people to thrive in our communities. None of it happens without you: Your generous spirit makes southwest Minnesota a place like none other. Each year, we continue to see an increase in demand for our programs and resources. Your gifts help strengthen our communities to do good work together. Thank you!
News
New chapter for a beloved Minnesota popcorn stand
In partnership with the Granite Falls Area Community Foundation, the Granite Falls Kiwanis raised $30,000 to build a larger popcorn stand in 2024. But what to do with the old one? When you have too much, the best thing to do is share. The iconic popcorn box shaped stand with its red and white exterior has found a new home in Litchfield, where Litchfield Area Community Foundation’s advisory board hopes it continues to serve snacks and generosity.
Conexiones grant builds community
With support from the Together We Thrive Grant, Conexiones, in partnership with KMS Community Education, organized three family centered activities during summer 2024. This included an outing to Glacial Lakes State Park, a family bus trip to Country Blossom Farm and a community pool night. “We had a wonderful summer hosting activities that brought families from all walks of life together. These events offered opportunities for community members to build lasting relationships and a sense of community,” said Conexiones Executive Director Autumn Macias.
Artmobile grant grows social connection
he Artmobile in Worthington teamed up with local high school students this past summer to make art with older adults in the community thanks in part to grant support from the Paul and Alma Schwan Aging Trust Endowment Fund at Southwest Initiative Foundation. Thanks to the project, older adults had more social interactions, reducing isolation. The resulting public art benches celebrate the community’s creativity. They will be enjoyed by the residents and visitors for years to come.
The Coffee Corner
Cassie Carlson moved and expanded her coffee shop this year thanks to help from our Microenterprise Loan Program. Cassie opened The Coffee Corner in March 2021 inside another business — Sieverson’s Pharmacy in Hendricks. In July 2022, she expanded for the first time, opening a consignment shop in her space at the pharmacy. But there still wasn’t space for everything she wanted to do. Then earlier this year, the opportunity arose to purchase a former bank building next door to her location, and Cassie jumped at the chance to have room to bring to life more of her original business plan.
2024 local leadership training wraps
Growing Local: Emerging Leaders graduated its second cohort in November, celebrating 13 community leaders who will help southwest Minnesota thrive. Leaders shape our organizations by setting the tone for the culture and making decisions that have a lasting impact on people and communities. Growing Local: Emerging Leaders is designed to help up-and-coming leaders discover and build on their unique strengths so they can make a difference through local boards, commissions and elected positions.
