Welcoming Week is an annual celebration that brings together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity.
At Southwest Initiative Foundation, we believe that dignity and belonging are core human values and that all people deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential.
This is the fourth year we’ve supported southwest Minnesota communities in building a sense of belonging by celebrating Welcoming Week locally. Each community that participates creates its own unique celebration reflecting the local community spirit.
Internationally, Welcoming Week takes place September 8-17 this year. Communities in our region are invited to host their activities throughout the month of September to lift up and celebrate welcoming, inclusive communities.
If your community is interested in being part of Welcoming Week in southwest Minnesota, we want to know! Email Than Than Kyaw to find out how SWIF can support you.
Below are resources that may be helpful as you consider celebrating with your community.
Welcoming Week Toolkit
Welcoming America created a toolkit to share ideas, tools, resources and guidance on participating in Welcoming Week, including event-planning tips and social media templates. The toolkit is full of helpful suggestions, but we encourage you to customize your celebration to make it meaningful for your community.
Access the Welcoming Week Toolkit
Welcoming Week Webinar
Welcoming America also recorded a webinar with best practices and resources to plan your event.
Watch the Welcoming Week event webinar
Grants
Southwest Minnesota Arts Council “Quick Support for Organizations”
Maximum Amount: $2,500
How to apply: Visit swmnarts.org/grants-for-organizations
Deadline: Aug. 1
Southwest Initiative Foundation Welcoming Week Grant
Maximum Amount: $1,000
How to Apply: Email Than Than for details
Deadline: Aug. 1
Visit our events calendar to find local information as community-led plans come together across our region.
About Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week is an annual campaign that celebrates the work in communities to become welcoming places for all, including immigrants. Launched in 2012 by Welcoming America and its members, Welcoming Week provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to showcase their values through events and initiatives that foster connections and collaboration. Southwest Initiative Foundation is a Welcoming America member.
