Board members Kathy Wehking, Abdirizak Mahboub and Patricia Dols volunteered a combined 23 years on our board, and we want to share our gratitude as they end their terms of service. Together with fellow board members, they guided us through a president/CEO leadership transition and the challenges of weathering the COVID-19 pandemic. During their service, we accelerated our investments to support access to quality, affordable child care; launched Welcoming Week and the Growing Local: Emerging Leaders Program; and leveraged our connections and expertise to ensure relief and recovery funding flowed into our region’s businesses and communities. Southwest Initiative Foundation and southwest Minnesota are better because of their service!
Kathy Wehking, 6 years of service
Joining the board in 2018, Kathy has provided steady leadership in the constantly evolving pursuit of our mission. She served on the Investment Committee, Development Committee and Evaluation and Measurement Task Force. An educator, community leader and farmer, her experiences have helped shape our work for the better. Her knowledge of the ag sector that is core to southwest Minnesota has been of tremendous value as we think about our investments and our programs. Kathy has an unwavering passion for rural, and she has championed the smallest of our small towns. Her personal commitment to kids’ futures helped set strategic direction for Grow Our Own and closing the opportunity gap for our kids and their families. We’re thankful for Kathy’s constant presence, curiosity and willingness to take risks and learn alongside us.
Abdirizak Mahboub, 6 years of service
Zack’s board service began in 2018 and has been informed by his passion for helping families and youth build safe, successful neighborhoods and lives. During his term, Zack served on the Investment Committee and the Equity Taskforce. A small business owner with true entrepreneurial spirit, Zack played a key role in our approach to economic development and has been a supporter for fellow entrepreneurs from Elevate graduates to loan clients. Putting his past nonprofit leadership into action, Zack has been a thought partner and mentor in translating our mission to action in ways that are relevant and valuable to local communities. His life, education and professional experience have given him unique gifts for connecting longtime residents, newcomers and immigrants. We’re grateful for Zack’s positive and supportive demeanor and his dedication to removing barriers and bridging across differences.
Patricia Dols, 11 years of service
Patti brought her wisdom and leadership to the board starting in 2013, taking on many key roles. She served on the Governance and Nominating Committee and the Investment Committee. And she was part of the Spending Policy, Evaluation and Measurement, and Land Acknowledgement task forces. Patti chaired the board from 2022-2023, guiding Southwest Initiative Foundation through our president/CEO leadership transition. She also served as Past Chair and Vice Chair. Over the years, Patti’s commitment to our mission and vision has been nothing short of inspiring. Her insights, expertise and leadership have played a pivotal role in guiding SWIF towards achieving its goals and making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Her passion for service and her tireless efforts particularly in the areas of childcare and education have left an indelible mark on our organization, and we are profoundly grateful for the time and energy Patti has invested in furthering our mission of strengthening rural communities and economies.
