During our Summer Socials, we had nearly 240 people from 52 communities across the region join us to connect and learn about Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF), as well as our local work and partnerships. Thanks to the donors, community partners, grantees, volunteers, community champions, fund partners, entrepreneurs, and others who joined us. We enjoyed connecting with you!
Archives for August 2023
Southwest Minnesota celebrates 2023 Welcoming Week
Internationally, Welcoming Week takes place September 8-17 this year. Communities in southwest Minnesota are hosting activities throughout the month of September to lift up and celebrate welcoming, inclusive communities.
Teresa Peterson retires from our board
Teresa Peterson, Utuhu Cistinna Win, is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following more than six years of service. Peterson has provided regional leadership on SWIF’s board since April 2017. In honor of her service, Peterson is directing a $650 grant from SWIF to Dakota Wicohan, a Native-led nonprofit based in Morton, Minn.
Fall Workshop for Fund Partners
Community Foundation and Education Foundation partners are invited to join the SWIF Giving Team and fellow advisory board members for a hands-on workshop to learn about writing an engaging year-end fundraising letter, followed by a site visit and optional networking social.
Well wishes to Karen Grasmon
We’re sharing well wishes with Karen Grasmon as she leaves her role as Communications Director at Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF). Karen has accepted a position with the Minnesota Department of Health as a rural communications specialist where she will support public health efforts in Greater Minnesota.
Randy Reinke retires from our board
Randy Reinke is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following nine years of service. Randy has provided regional leadership on SWIF’s board since July 2014, including as board chair from 2019 to 2021. In honor of his board service, Randy is directing a $900 grant to the Litchfield Area Community Foundation’s Waterpark Fund.
