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.
Southwest Minnesota child care professionals, educators and caregivers are invited to the 2026 Kids First Conference March 6-7 at Jackpot Junction. You'll hear from inspiring speakers, attend valuable workshops and learn about resources to help support the children you care about.
The YES! House has been hosting creative events for the past few years, but now, construction is officially complete! Southwest Initiative Foundation President Scott Marquardt will be one of the guest speakers at the celebration.
There's something for everyone at the 2026 International Heritage Festival: A Celebration of Cultures! Honor the traditions, stories, and incredible richness of the cultures that make the Willmar Lakes Area such a beautiful place to live.
Experience an evening where art, story, and community come together with The Willmar Project. Funding for this activity was provided in part by the Southwest Initiative Foundation.