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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Southwest Initiative Foundation
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250920T200000
DTSTAMP:20260227T180959Z
CREATED:20250905T141208Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T180959Z
UID:10001112-1758384000-1758398400@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:Community is Recovery Barbecue
DESCRIPTION:Everyone is invited to the Community is Recovery Barbecue. Enjoy live music\, free food and connecting with community! \n\n\n\nGuest speakers include Lisa King\, Assistant Director of Operations at Project Morning Star’s residential recovery facility and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) with Unspoken Truth. She will be sharing experiences from her own mental health journey. \n\n\n\nSeptember is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month\, a time to raise awareness\, spread hope\, and spark meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/community-is-recovery-barbecue/
LOCATION:Tegels Park\, 1960 Cottonwood Lake Dr\, Windom\, 56101
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Community-is-Recovery-Barbecue.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Unspoken Truth":MAILTO:mark@unspokentruthcommunity.com
GEO:43.8749011;-95.1044524
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Tegels Park 1960 Cottonwood Lake Dr Windom 56101;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1960 Cottonwood Lake Dr:geo:-95.1044524,43.8749011
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260119T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260119T193000
DTSTAMP:20260227T182255Z
CREATED:20260105T042939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T182255Z
UID:10001123-1768843800-1768851000@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:2026 Willmar Martin Luther King Jr. Event
DESCRIPTION:Willmar’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Event will take place on Monday\, 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. \nThis year introduces “The Dream Art Contest\,” offering a new way for community members to participate creatively. \nThe evening will feature performances\, a complimentary meal\, and a keynote address by Duchesne Drew\, Senior Vice President at American Public Media Group and President of Minnesota Public Radio\, who will speak on Dr. King’s enduring legacy. \nThere is no charge to attend and a complimentary meal will be served. Reservations are requested. \n[button link=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/willmar-mlk-celebration-a-day-of-unity-tickets-1977972853049″ class=”” ]Reserve Your Spot[/button] \nSouthwest Initiative Foundation is proud to sponsor this event.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/2026-willmar-martin-luther-king-jr-event/
LOCATION:Ridgewater College\, 2101 15th Ave NW\, Willmar\, MN\, 56201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-Willmar-MLK-Flyer.png
ORGANIZER;CN="City of Willmar":MAILTO:dei@willmarmn.gov
GEO:45.1386267;-95.0726893
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Ridgewater College 2101 15th Ave NW Willmar MN 56201 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2101 15th Ave NW:geo:-95.0726893,45.1386267
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260202T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T235959
DTSTAMP:20260227T181000Z
CREATED:20250728T142518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T181000Z
UID:10001105-1769990400-1770163199@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:2026 It Begins With Us
DESCRIPTION:The annual It Begins with Us Conference will be at a new location this year\, the 5 Family Ranch\, located outside of Marshall. \nDay 1: Poverty SimulationThe first day begins with a Poverty Simulation\, giving participants a powerful\, hands-on look at the challenges faced by individuals and families living in poverty. This interactive experience encourages empathy and a deeper understanding of economic inequality in our communities. The day continues with a community services networking showcase\, where local organizations share resources\, programs\, and opportunities to connect and collaborate for community wellbeing. \nDay 2: ConferenceThe second day features engaging presentations focused on inclusion and representation. A representative from the Carpenters Union will discuss efforts to broaden participation and promote diversity within the trades. A presentation and panel with Vietnam Veterans will highlight stories of service and resilience. The day also includes a session from Grate Interpreting\, whose owner will share insights on accessibility\, communication equity\, and the importance of inclusive interpreting services. \nFind out more and register for It Begins With Us
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/2026-it-begins-with-us/
LOCATION:5 Family Ranch\, 2717 County Road 6\, Mashall\, Minnesota\, 56258
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Save-the-Date-2026-It-Begins-With-Us.jpg
GEO:44.4137629;-95.7522202
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=5 Family Ranch 2717 County Road 6 Mashall Minnesota 56258;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2717 County Road 6:geo:-95.7522202,44.4137629
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260306T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260307T235959
DTSTAMP:20250905T141508Z
CREATED:20250905T134741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T141508Z
UID:10001111-1772755200-1772927999@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:2026 KIDS First Conference
DESCRIPTION:Save the date! 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. \nSWIF’s sponsorship of the Kids First Conference is part of our broader work to support child care. We are also helping plan and invest in local child care projects\, and ensuring leaders and communities are equipped and supported to ensure child care related work is right-sized for local needs.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/2026-kids-first-conference/
LOCATION:Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel\, 39375 County Highway 24\, Morton\, MN\, 56270\, United States
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Kids_First_Early_Childhood_Conference_2019.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Southwest Initiative Foundation":MAILTO:info@swifoundation.org
GEO:44.5314688;-94.9992537
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel 39375 County Highway 24 Morton MN 56270 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=39375 County Highway 24:geo:-94.9992537,44.5314688
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260414T211824Z
CREATED:20260414T211602Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T211824Z
UID:10001144-1777042800-1777060800@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:The YES! House Grand Opening
DESCRIPTION:The YES! House has been hosting creative events for the past few years\, but now\, after completing a $1M capital campaign—and overcoming the hurdles involved in rural renovation projects—construction is officially complete!  \n\n\n\nExpect live music\, local art\, interactive activities\, tours\, and great food at this celebration honoring the people and creativity shaping the region’s future. \n\n\n\nGuest speakers include national rural arts strategist\, John Davis; Scott Marquardt\, President of the Southwest Initiative Foundation; The YES! House architects James Arentson and Miranda Moen; DoPT Board and Staff; and more! \n\n\n\nOpen House + Tours from 3–6 PM: Drop in for an interactive tour with engaging activities in different spaces around The YES! House! Snacks and beverages provided. \n\n\n\nProgram + Party from 6–8 PM: Hear from DoPT staff\, board\, key partners\, and folks that have made The YES! House what it is today during a brief program and celebratory toast\, followed by music and merriment! Champagne + NA tincture bar and cake will be served! \n\n\n\n\nRSVP HERE\n\n\n\n\nThe YES! House is a project of Department of Public Transformation.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/the-yes-house-grand-opening/
LOCATION:The YES! House\, 726 Prentice St\, Granite Falls\, MN\, 56241\, United States
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/YES-House-grand-opening.webp
GEO:44.8109678;-95.5381096
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The YES! House 726 Prentice St Granite Falls MN 56241 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=726 Prentice St:geo:-95.5381096,44.8109678
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T193000
DTSTAMP:20260413T204330Z
CREATED:20260413T204219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T204330Z
UID:10001143-1777051800-1777059000@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:2026 International Heritage Festival
DESCRIPTION:Join Willmar Lakes Area Vision 2040 for the annual 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.  \n\n\n\n\nWHEN: Friday\, April 24\n\n\n\nTIME: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM\n\n\n\nWHERE: Willmar Civic Center\n\n\n\nADMISSION: FREE and open to the public\n\n\n\n\nWhat to expect: \n\n\n\n\nA lineup of cultural performances featuring music\, dance\, and artistic expressions from around the globe\n\n\n\nTaste your way across cultures with delicious samples from local favorites like Somali Star\, El Viejon\, Mi Rancho\, Pen House Boba\, and more!\n\n\n\n Interactive cultural exhibits and a chance to connect with neighbors
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/2026-international-heritage-festival/
LOCATION:Willmar Civic Center\, 3707 Arena Dr \, Willmar \, MN\, 56201
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-Willmar-International-Heritage-Festival.jpg
GEO:45.1475024;-95.0036429
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Willmar Civic Center 3707 Arena Dr  Willmar  MN 56201;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=3707 Arena Dr:geo:-95.0036429,45.1475024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260515T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260515T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T214140Z
CREATED:20260417T213947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T214140Z
UID:10001145-1778869800-1778877000@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Willmar Project at The Little Theatre Auditorium
DESCRIPTION:Experience an evening where art\, story\, and community come together with The Willmar Project at The Little Theatre Auditorium. This community‑centered theatre project features staged readings of the original verbatim play Willmar\, created from interviews with 100+ participants from East African\, Latin American\, and white communities in the area. Before the show\, enjoy food from local restaurants along with a Community Jam session led by Purpose Artisans. Stay after the performance for a facilitated group conversation. \n\n\n\nFood + Music starting at 6:30 p.m.Performance begins at 7:00 p.m. \n\n\n\nTickets available at the door\, or reserve your seats in advance. This event is open to all. Pay-what-you-wish donations accepted. \n\n\n\nFunding for this project was provided in part by the Southwest Initiative Foundation.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/the-willmar-project-at-the-little-theatre-auditorium/
LOCATION:Little Theatre Auditorium\, 24 Central Ave E\, New London\, Minnesota\, 56273
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-The-Willmar-Project.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T153000
DTSTAMP:20260417T214620Z
CREATED:20260417T214617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T214620Z
UID:10001146-1778938200-1778945400@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Willmar Project at Community Connector Services
DESCRIPTION:Experience an evening where art\, story\, and community come together with The Willmar Project at Community Connector Services. This community‑centered theatre project features staged readings of the original verbatim play Willmar\, created from interviews with 100+ participants from East African\, Latin American\, and white communities in the area. Before the show\, enjoy food from local restaurants along with a Community Jam session led by Purpose Artisans. Stay after the performance for a facilitated group conversation. \n\n\n\nFood + Music at 1:30 p.m.Performance begins at 2:00 p.m. \n\n\n\nTickets available at the door\, or reserve your seats in advance. This event is open to all. Pay-what-you-wish donations accepted. \n\n\n\nFunding for this project was provided in part by the Southwest Initiative Foundation.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/the-willmar-project-at-community-connector-services/
LOCATION:Community Connector Services\, 436 Litchfield Ave SW\, Willmar\, Minnesota\, 56201
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-The-Willmar-Project.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T215408Z
CREATED:20260417T215405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T215408Z
UID:10001147-1778958000-1778965200@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Willmar Project at Brau Performing Arts Center
DESCRIPTION:Experience an evening where art\, story\, and community come together with The Willmar Project at the Brau Performing Arts Center\, located in the Willmar Senior High School. This community‑centered theatre project features staged readings of the original verbatim play Willmar\, created from interviews with 100+ participants from East African\, Latin American\, and white communities in the area. Before the show\, enjoy food from local restaurants along with a Community Jam session led by Purpose Artisans. Stay after the performance for a facilitated group conversation. \n\n\n\nFood + Music starting at 7:00 p.m.Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. \n\n\n\nTickets available at the door\, or reserve your seats in advance. This event is open to all. Pay-what-you-wish donations accepted. \n\n\n\nFunding for this project was provided in part by the Southwest Initiative Foundation.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/the-willmar-project-at-brau-performing-arts-center/
LOCATION:Brau Performing Arts Center\, 2701 30th St NE\, Willmar\, Minnesota\, 56201
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-The-Willmar-Project.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260517T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260517T173000
DTSTAMP:20260417T221418Z
CREATED:20260417T221415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T221418Z
UID:10001148-1779031800-1779039000@swifoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Willmar Project at Spurs Bar & Grill
DESCRIPTION:Experience an evening where art\, story\, and community come together with The Willmar Project at Spurs Bar & Grill. This community‑centered theatre project features staged readings of the original verbatim play Willmar\, created from interviews with 100+ participants from East African\, Latin American\, and white communities in the area. Before the show\, enjoy food from local restaurants along with a Community Jam session led by Purpose Artisans. Stay after the performance for a facilitated group conversation. \n\n\n\nFood + Music starting at 3:30 p.m.Performance begins at 4:00 p.m. \n\n\n\nTickets available at the door\, or reserve your seats in advance. This event is open to all. Pay-what-you-wish donations accepted. \n\n\n\nFunding for this project was provided in part by the Southwest Initiative Foundation.
URL:https://swifoundation.org/event/the-willmar-project-at-spurs-bar-grill/
LOCATION:Spurs Bar & Grill\, 313 4th St SW\, Willmar\, Minnesota\, 56201
CATEGORIES:Sponsored Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-The-Willmar-Project.jpg
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