Lac qui Parle area launches project to build welcoming and inclusive communities
Area residents invited to initial meeting April 9 in Madison
MADISON, Minn. – The Lac qui Parle area is participating in Welcoming & Inclusive Communities Project (WICP), a free nine-month initiative designed to empower rural communities to engage in welcoming and belonging efforts that spur economic development, promote community engagement and build thriving communities for new and current residents.
Local organizers are looking for community members from Appleton, Dawson, Madison and the surrounding areas to be part of the WICP cohort. The first meeting will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 9 at the Madison Mercantile. Those interested in joining are asked to register in advance, either through our online form or by contacting Ivan Parga at (320) 552-0592 or email Ivan. Walk-ins are also welcome.
WICP connects, trains, and equips community stakeholders to champion local efforts that foster diversity, equity and inclusion. Participants will gain valuable tools and resources compiled by University of Minnesota Extension educators, community leaders, and past WICP alumni. Facilitation and funding support is provided by Southwest Initiative Foundation.
“This program is an incredible opportunity for rural communities to build a stronger foundation for all residents,” said Parga, who is supporting the project through his role at Southwest Initiative Foundation.
Following the April meeting, sessions will be held on the second Tuesday of each month, with a mix of in-person and virtual gatherings. WICP participants should plan to attend a majority of the sessions.
As part of its engagement with the community, the WICP cohort will conduct a Community Readiness Assessment to gauge welcoming awareness, engagement, accessibility and other areas. By completing the assessment, the cohort will be eligible to receive a small grant to support local welcoming efforts.
Kris Shelstad of Madison is one of the local community organizers for WICP, and she encourages residents from all walks of life to consider joining the cohort.
“We need voices across all sectors of our community to become part of our welcoming cohort. The sessions are free to attend, and will include valuable information to equip our businesses, our community and our citizens to build a welcoming and thriving community,” Shelstad said.
About Southwest Initiative Foundation
Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is a nonprofit community foundation connecting people, investing in ideas and building communities to create a southwest Minnesota where all people thrive. Since its founding in 1986, SWIF has distributed more than $115 million through its grantmaking and business finance programs.