Happy Halal Meats is a unique family business that processes halal goat, lamb, and chicken in Willmar. Becky and Greg Wierschke started the company after discovering the need for locally processed goat and lamb. A PROMISE Loan through Southwest Initiative Foundation helped them open the doors of their new facility.
Why serve on a local community foundation board?
Why serve on a local community foundation board? You can connect more deeply with your community and make good happen locally! Hear from advisory board members for the Bird Island-Olivia Community Foundation about why they volunteer.
Nancy Fasching marks 25 years at SWIF
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.
