For 25 years, Nancy Fasching has been an integral part of our grantmaking. Nancy joined Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) in January 2001 as a Grants Specialist and steadily advanced through roles including Grants Officer, Senior Administration and Grants Officer, and Community Impact Director before becoming Vice President for Community Impact.
Glencoe Area Community Foundation pitches in for pickleball
Pickleball courts are popping up across our region, many supported by our community foundation partners. This year, Glencoe Area Community Foundation granted $2,000 to the City of Glencoe for new pickleball courts and equipment.
Tyler Area Community Foundation grant to hospice gives comfort and care
With a grant from the Tyler Area Community Foundation, Avera Tyler and Avera@Home Southwest Minnesota were able to update a hospital room for hospice patients. Improvements include fresh paint, new artwork, a comfortable sofa sleeper for family members to stay close to loved ones, and a lift chair for patients who are able to sit up.
2025 emerging leaders graduate
In October, the 2025 Growing Local: Emerging Leaders cohort gathered for the sixth and final session of their leadership journey. The theme for the evening was Visionary Leadership, Action, and Celebration, hosted at Little Theatre Auditorium in New London.
2025 Year-End Giving Guide
As the season of generosity approaches, we’re here to help make your year-end charitable giving simple and meaningful. Whether you’re supporting our mission, a community foundation partner, or another fund, now is a great time to plan ahead. We’ve outlined key dates and deadlines below to make sure your tax-deductible gifts are processed smoothly and on time.
Senator tours Promise Act projects in Willmar
We recently welcomed Sen. Bobby Joe Champion, president of the Minnesota State Senate, to Willmar for a firsthand look at the transformative Promise Act projects. The tour showcased three businesses that exemplify the power of community investment: Happy Halal, Mubarak Food & Grocery, and Bar Path CrossFit.
