Running a successful child care business takes a mix of empathy, technical skills, and community support. Plus, a great team. Jamie Gillund has it all at Little Explorers Child Care Center in Ghent. It was her lifelong dream to open this business, and soon she’ll be opening a second location.
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Apply now for the 2026 Growing Local: Emerging Leaders cohort
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community, but need the tools and confidence to step into more formal leadership roles? Growing Local: Emerging Leaders is a leadership education program designed just for you. We’ll help you discover and build on your unique strengths so you can make a difference through local boards, commissions and elected positions.
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.
2nd Annual Navigating the Currents, Charting the Course Conference
Southwest Minnesota nonprofit professionals and SWIF fund partner advisory board members are invited to join us on April 15 at Jackpot Junction for a day of learning and connection.
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.
