Southwest Minnesota’s summer festival season is in full swing. Many town celebrations in our region receive support from local community foundation grants. Last year, the Morton Area Community Foundation granted $1,800 to the City of Morton to help with the annual volleyball tournament at the 4th of July Celebration, paying for new nets and volleyballs.
Give Where You Live
Summer pool pass scholarship helps kids beat the heat
Nothing compares to a day at the pool during southwest Minnesota’s hot summer months. The Pipestone Area Community Foundation helped more kids get in the water last summer with a grant supporting a unique program: The City of Pipestone Ewert Recreation Department provides assistances for qualifying families to purchase swimming lessons and aquatic passes for their children.
Ready, set, play! Local grant supports Lake Benton Elementary School playgrounds
The playgrounds at Lake Benton Elementary are more than just a space for students during school hours. They are a central part of the Lake Benton community. Families, residents and visitors regularly enjoy the playground after school, on weekends, and during community events like Saddle Horse Days.
Grants benefit local libraries in southwest Minnesota
Many of our local community foundation partners make grants to benefit libraries in southwest Minnesota, supporting a variety of projects. Thanks to funding from the Hutchinson Area Community Foundation and the Friends of the Library, the Hutchinson Public Library was able to purchase 12 custom-built children’s picture book bins.
Bird Island-Olivia Community Foundation supports students
Students attending BOLD High School in Olivia are experiencing extra support at school this winter thanks to grants made by the Bird Island-Olivia Community Foundation. The foundation granted a total of $6,075 in fall 2024, including $2,500 for the Care Closet.
Skating through winter thanks to Clarkfield Area Community Foundation grant
What used to be an open field in Clarkfield is now an ice rink thanks to $1,000 from a Clarkfield Area Community Foundation grant. Transforming the former Clarkfield archery range into a place to skate opens up opportunities for recreation during winter months when it can be harder to find something fun to do outdoors.