The Southwest Initiative Foundation would like to thank everyone who joined us Thursday, April 23, at Jackpot Junction in Morton for the 2009 “What Matters Most” banquet. We hope you were inspired by all this event had to offer!
“What Matters Most” Video
More than ever, the Southwest Initiative Foundation is focusing on what matters most. We hope you will enjoy this video as we celebrate three entrepreneurs, among many, who have made a difference in southwest Minnesota.
To view the video, click here.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Roz Ewald, Cedar Crest Estates; Cory Jensen, Country Enterprises; Dan Juhl, Juhl Wind; and their families and staff for sharing their stories of entrepreneurship in our region and to Famous Davis of Willmar for producing the video.
To request a copy of “What Matters Most” on DVD, contact Communications Officer Karen Grasmon at 800-594-9480.
Keynote Speaker V.J. Smith
V.J. Smith, president of Life’s Great Moments, delivered a heartfelt message about the importance of showing gratitude, building relationships and making a difference in the lives of those around us. The event’s “What Matters Most” theme was inspired by a chapter in Smith’s book, The Richest Man in Town.
Surprise Announcement of 2009 Southwest Initiative Foundation Award Recipient
Congratulations to Greg Raymo of Worthington!
The Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors and Staff are pleased to recognize Greg Raymo of Worthington as this year’s award recipient.
Click here to view our award booklet highlighting some of Greg’s countless contributions to our region.
To show our appreciation for his leadership, innovation, collaboration and philanthropic spirit, Greg received a framed photograph by internationally-acclaimed Minnesota photographer Jim Brandenburg who selected this photograph from his archives to be used solely for the Southwest Initiative Foundation Award.
Greg also received a $2,000 award to be granted to the program or project of his choosing for the benefit of southwest Minnesota.
Southwest Minnesota Talent Showcase
Four artists and three musical groups who submitted auditions for our showcase were selected to display their artwork and perform, giving guests a taste of our region’s great talent.
- Elaine Hagen, Belview
- Great Plains String Quartet, Worthington
- Joan Hohenstein, Lake Benton
- Bruce R. Bednarchuk, Redwood Falls
- David Mngodo, Redwood Falls
- Jazz with Ross and Pete, Marshall
- Taylor Rossow, Lakefield
Afternoon Workshops
Surviving the Recession
What businesses should do to survive the economy
Presented by Duane Hoversten
Promoting Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
Understanding our everyday interactions with young children and their families
Presented by Michele Fallon
Handouts available for downloading:
- Diapering as a Teachable Moment
- MH Consultation Handout
- Emotional literacy-parents
- One of Several Good Reasons to Do
- Helping Babies Cry Better
- Potential of childcare–SW
- IMH handout
Leaving a Legacy
Using philanthropic tools to leave a legacy and benefit the place we call home
Presented by Doug Holzkamp and Marc Vaillancourt
Community Leadership: Doing What Matters Most
Making the best investment of leader’s time and energy
Presented by Jim Krile
Handouts avilable for downloading:
Krile workshop binder
