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.
Community Foundations
Appleton Community Foundation grant puts students in holiday spirit
Reindeer sing, flashlights glow and kazoos hum through the halls in Appleton and Madison as students prepare for their holiday program. The performance shines a spotlight on just how wild things can get at the North Pole this time of year! Thanks to a grant from the Appleton Community Foundation and donations from local families, teachers were able to purchase supplies to make the show really sparkle.
Mountain Lake Area Foundation grants help put food on the table
Mountain Lake Area Foundation (MLAF) has granted $25,000 over the last 10 years to help sustain the local Loaves & Fishes food shelf. In addition to supporting the local food shelf, MLAF has granted to many other projects in the community. Their core fundraiser is an annual dinner, a well-attended affair the community looks forward to each year.
Windom Veterans Memorial a testament to service
Driving through Windom on Highway 71, you can’t miss the flags snapping smartly in the breeze over the Windom Veterans Memorial at the center of town. Limestone blocks dovetail black stone monuments, each etched with the image of a service member from different branches of the military. The memorial is a testament not only to the service of those in the armed forces, but also to the everyday service shown by those who care for our rural communities.
How community foundations are making a difference in southwest Minnesota
Community foundations take the kindness of neighbors and turn it into something bigger. They amplify the ordinary ways we care for each other as individuals, bringing together donors, residents, and nonprofits to help our communities thrive. Whether you’re familiar with your local community foundation or not, chances are you’ve felt its influence. To give you an idea of the good that’s happening, we have updates from a handful of our newest community foundation partners.
Child care gets a boost from Heron Lake-Okabena Community Foundation
Heron Lake Day Care Center opened in 1975 in the small town of Heron Lake in Jackson County. Kaye Fury started caring for kids at the center in 1980 and is currently the sole staff member. Earlier this year, Heron Lake-Okabena Community Foundation (HLOCF) awarded a grant to the center to pay for in-service training to comply with licensing requirements as well as supplies and activities for school age kids.
