In partnership with the Granite Falls Area Community Foundation, the Granite Falls Kiwanis raised $30,000 to build a larger popcorn stand in 2024. But what to do with the old one? When you have too much, the best thing to do is share. The iconic popcorn box shaped stand with its red and white exterior has found a new home in Litchfield, where Litchfield Area Community Foundation’s advisory board hopes it continues to serve snacks and generosity.
Annual Reports
2024 local leadership training wraps
Growing Local: Emerging Leaders graduated its second cohort in November, celebrating 13 community leaders who will help southwest Minnesota thrive. Leaders shape our organizations by setting the tone for the culture and making decisions that have a lasting impact on people and communities. Growing Local: Emerging Leaders is designed to help up-and-coming leaders discover and build on their unique strengths so they can make a difference through local boards, commissions and elected positions.
Welcoming Week in Willmar with Abdifatah
Abdifatah Mohamed is the executive director of the Willmar nonprofit Community Connector Services (CCS). Beyond CCS, Abdifatah engages with broader community events like Welcoming Week in Willmar and the International Heritage Festival. His work focuses on creating spaces where everyone feels included and supported.
Gnometown Grounds’ grand re-opening
Gnometown Grounds — a locally owned café, bakeshop and gift shop — recently celebrated its grand re-opening in Dawson with help from our Microenterprise Loan Program. Emma Weber started this small business last year in the former Marc’s on Main gift shop. Following a brief soft launch, Weber had a planned closure starting in January 2024 to make major renovations, including adding a coffee bar and kitchen.
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.
In Bird Island, supporting community-led solutions to the child care crisis
Founded in 1999, the nonprofit Learning Funhouse child care center serves families from all over Renville County. Southwest Initiative Foundation supports community planning, public policy, project investment and technical assistance, public relations and appreciation, and professional development for child care in southwest Minnesota.
