More than 15,800 veterans live in Southwest Minnesota. To honor and recognize the service of local veterans, Chippewa County Veterans Service Office hosted a special event at this year’s Chippewa County Fair in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Montevideo Veterans Home. The celebration focused on appreciation and community connection:
- Free admission and treats: All veterans received free entrance to the fair and a malt voucher, generously donated by the Montevideo Lions Club. In all, 132 veterans attended.
- Live entertainment: The day began with live music performed by a local Navy veteran, setting a patriotic and welcoming tone.
- Recognition program: Veterans received a “thank you” pin in appreciation of their service during a special recognition ceremony honoring each branch of the military.
- Veterans and family meal: With the support of the VFW and American Legion Women’s Auxiliary groups, veterans and their families enjoyed a complimentary lunch.
- Community bingo: The day concluded with a lively bingo session open to all attendees. Over 30 local businesses contributed prizes, demonstrating strong community support for veterans.
Grant supports veterans celebration
The Montevideo Area Community Foundation granted $1,500 to help make Veterans Day at the fair success.
“This event wouldn’t have been possible without the grant. Covering the veterans’ admission was key to its success,” said Tyler Degner, Assistant County Veteran Service Officer for Chippewa County.
“Montevideo has a strong group of community members who have worked tirelessly to promote awareness of the veterans in our area, which has resulted in the Veterans Home and the Veterans Memorial Park. The foundation board was honored to have an opportunity to show our support of area veterans,” said Donna Krueger, board secretary.
About the Montevideo Area Community Foundation
Our network of 31 community foundations supports passionate people with the resources to make positive change. A team of local advisory board members guides each community foundation by fundraising, recommending grants, telling stories of good work happening locally and promoting their town.
“Our favorite event of the year is coming up soon, grant awards night at the American Legion on December 15. The holiday season is a great time to share the rewards of our fundraising efforts with area nonprofit organizations,” said board chair John Skoglund.
Since its founding, more than $250,000 in grants have been awarded to Montevideo area organizations and projects, including to Brookside Senior Living, Chippewa Valley Youth Club, Montevideo Schools, Chippewa County Fair, Project Turnabout, Montevideo Arts Project and more.
Looking ahead, the Montevideo Area Community Foundation is partnering with the City of Montevideo to build a new splash pad.
“Projects that benefit the whole community are a natural fit for foundation fundraising efforts,” John said of the splash pad project.
Give Where You Live
Support your local community foundation or another fund that benefits a cause you care about close to home. See a full list of our partner funds in southwest Minnesota.
