The Age Friendly Communities program helps small towns in Minnesota become better places to live for people of all ages. The program helps communities identify existing assets that are age friendly, as well as areas where they can improve. In Hardwick, residents were interested in improving their health and recreational opportunities. A grant helped fund updates to the local park that make it easier for all ages to enjoy.
Archives for 2023
2024-2025 Initiators Fellows Chosen
Nine social entrepreneurs have been selected for the 2024-2025 Initiators Fellowship cohort represent 53 counties and six Native nations in Central, Northwest, Southwest and West Central Minnesota. Suree Sompamitwong of Worthington is one of the selected fellows, with her social enterprise Creative Healing Space. Her term in the fellowship is supported by Southwest Initiative Foundation.
Well wishes to Liz Cheney
We’re sharing well wishes with Liz Cheney as she leaves her role as Vice President of Giving at Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF). Since starting here in 2004, Liz has held a variety of roles at the foundation, most recently leading our Giving Team. Liz has accepted a new position as the first-ever foundation director for Glencoe Regional Health, and her last day at our office will be Nov. 9, 2023.
Beaver Creek Boarding
Beaver Creek Boarding hosted a ribbon cutting in October to celebrate one year of operating the new kennel, located just south of Olivia and owned by Katy Holland and Joshua Honzay. Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program and DEED’s Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program helped the entrepreneurs launch their business.
Growing Local: Emerging Leaders graduates first cohort
Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Growing Local: Emerging Leaders program recently graduated its first cohort of 14 participants. This leadership education program supports emerging leaders in southwest Minnesota and is a partnership with University of Minnesota Extension.
2023 Annual Impact Report
This annual impact report shines a light on our partners, donors and the community relationships that power our mission. Their generosity and dedication make it possible to address critical community needs in pursuit of economic mobility for all our kids and families.
