The Age Friendly Communities program helps small towns in Minnesota become better places to live for people of all ages. The program helps communities identify existing assets that are age friendly, as well as areas where they can improve. In Hardwick, residents were interested in improving their health and recreational opportunities. A grant helped fund updates to the local park that make it easier for all ages to enjoy.
Vibrant Communities
Growing Local: Emerging Leaders graduates first cohort
Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Growing Local: Emerging Leaders program recently graduated its first cohort of 14 participants. This leadership education program supports emerging leaders in southwest Minnesota and is a partnership with University of Minnesota Extension.
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.
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.
