Together, we thrive
Together, we thriveReflecting on this year, I’m thinking about the ways we create a bright future together. You’re the reason I’m hopeful for our region. Your innovative business ideas, your creative community projects, your genuine care for your neighbors, your generous support of the causes and people around you.
Our annual impact report features three stories about working toward a southwest Minnesota where all people thrive. Local volunteers in the communities of Russell, Tyler and Ruthton put their love of community in action by fundraising to support students and families with the RTR Educational Foundation. It is among more than 120 funds we host that support local communities, schools, and nonprofits, helping keep important resources in our communities.
Javier Valenzuela applied for a Grow Our Own grant to help cover costs of the Train 2 Thrive Judo program he started last
year in Willmar. As the program’s leader, he makes sure kids who need extra support can learn martial arts, connect with someone who cares about them and have fun – for free.
In Walnut Grove, entrepreneurs and registered nurses Joleen Baumann and Dasha Mumm opened a new business with support from our loan programs. Kindred Spirits offers services for older adults including assessment of needs, coordination of care, navigating the health care system and advocacy.
All of this – and more – is made possible by the generosity, trust, and vision of thousands of people who care about southwest Minnesota and donate to Southwest Initiative Foundation and our family of funds. It’s possible because of you! Thank you for supporting our mission of connecting people, investing in ideas and building communities.
Diana Anderson,
President/CEO
Thanks to support from our donors and friends, this year alone we …
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Awarded 1,029 grants totaling $6,620,292
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Disbursed 63 new loans totaling $2,502,354
Read stories of impact from southwest Minnesota
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Free martial arts class trains kids to thrive in Willmar September 22, 2022
Javier Valenzuela followed a hard path growing up, one he hopes others won’t have to take. He’s [...]
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Local education foundation goes “all in” for kids in Russell, Tyler, Ruthton September 22, 2022
The RTR Educational Foundation has raised nearly $800,000 in its first four years to give kids the b [...]
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Kindred Spirits in Walnut Grove opens to coordinate care for elders June 15, 2022
WALNUT GROVE, Minn. – Kindred Spirits Care Management LLC, founded by registered nurses Joleen Bau [...]
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