Southwest Initiative Foundation
we do good work to help great people succeed.
You're invited to the annual It Begins With Us conference to share stories and hear experiences of community members. Day 1 will be an immersive and interactive Virtual Dementia Tour facilitated by a representative from Minnesota River Agency on Aging. Day 2 will be filled with speakers, panels and keynote speaker Dr. Anton Treuer.
Child care professionals, educators and caregivers are invited to the KIDS First Conference on February 28-March 1 at Jackpot Junction to hear from inspiring speakers, attend valuable workshops and learn about resources to help support the children they care about. We’re proud to be a part of the KIDS First Conference Team along with our partners Child Care & Nutrition, Inc., Prairie Five Community Action, Prairie Five Head Start and United Community Action Partnership. This event is made possible by funding from the State of Minnesota and the Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Through Welcoming Week, organizations and communities bring together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity. This year's theme, “Stories We Share” focuses on celebrating differences and spotting what we have in common. The theme recognizes that stories are a gateway to connection and understanding, and a catalyst to shape our shared future.
Everyone is invited to the Community is Recovery Barbecue in Windom at Tegels Park on Cottonwood Lake. Enjoy live music, free food and connecting with community!
Willmar’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Event will take place on January 19 at Ridgewater College Cafeteria. The community gathering invites attendees to reflect on Dr. King’s message of equality and justice, celebrate progress in civil rights, and engage in conversations about current social issues.
You're invited to the annual It Begins With Us conference. Explore the stories, history and cultures in your community Feb. 2-3, 2026. This year's event will be at 5 Family Ranch near Marshall.
