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.
Vibrant Communities
Grants: Fostering social connection in later life
Southwest Initiative Foundation has created a grant program to support projects that provide southwest Minnesota-serving organizations with funding to reduce and prevent social isolation and loneliness among older adults in our region. Apply today for a Fostering Social Connection in Later Life grant from the Paul and Alma Schwan Aging Trust Endowment Fund.
2023 Summer Social Series
During our Summer Socials, we had nearly 240 people from 52 communities across the region join us to connect and learn about Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF), as well as our local work and partnerships. Thanks to the donors, community partners, grantees, volunteers, community champions, fund partners, entrepreneurs, and others who joined us. We enjoyed connecting with you!
Southwest Minnesota celebrates 2023 Welcoming Week
Internationally, Welcoming Week takes place September 8-17 this year. Communities in southwest Minnesota are hosting activities throughout the month of September to lift up and celebrate welcoming, inclusive communities.
Teresa Peterson retires from our board
Teresa Peterson, Utuhu Cistinna Win, is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following more than six years of service. Peterson has provided regional leadership on SWIF’s board since April 2017. In honor of her service, Peterson is directing a $650 grant from SWIF to Dakota Wicohan, a Native-led nonprofit based in Morton, Minn.
2023 Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week is an annual celebration that brings together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity. Communities in our region are invited to host activities throughout the month of September to lift up and celebrate welcoming, inclusive communities.
