Kathy Wehking is retiring from our board of directors following 6 years of service. Kathy started her term in 2018, drawing from her experience as an educator, community leader and farmer. During her service, SWIF accelerated its investments to support access to quality, affordable child care; launched Welcoming Week and the Growing Local: Emerging Leaders program; and leveraged connections and expertise to ensure relief and recovery funding flowed into the region’s businesses and communities.
board of directors
Abdirizak Mahboub completes 6 years of board service with Southwest Initiative Foundation
Abdirizak Mahboub is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following just over 6 years of service. Zack joined the board in 2018, stepping in to complete several months of an open term, then staying on. His interest in helping families and youth build safe, successful neighborhoods and lives shaped his decision to serve.
Patricia Dols completes 11 years of board service with Southwest Initiative Foundation
Patricia Dols is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following 11 years of service. During her term, she brought her wisdom and leadership to the board starting in 2013, taking on many key roles. In honor of her service, Patricia is directing a $1,100 grant from SWIF to support the Willmar Early Childhood Initiative at Willmar Public Schools.
Celebrating our outgoing board members
Board members Kathy Wehking, Abdirizak Mahboub and Patricia Dols volunteered a combined 23 years on our board, and we want to share our gratitude as they end their terms of service. During their service, we accelerated our investments to support access to quality, affordable child care; launched Welcoming Week and the Growing Local: Emerging Leaders Program; and leveraged our connections and expertise to ensure relief and recovery funding flowed into our region’s businesses and communities. Southwest Initiative Foundation and southwest Minnesota are better because of their service!
Teresa Peterson retires from our board
Teresa Peterson, Utuhu Cistinna Win, is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following more than six years of service. Peterson has provided regional leadership on SWIF’s board since April 2017. In honor of her service, Peterson is directing a $650 grant from SWIF to Dakota Wicohan, a Native-led nonprofit based in Morton, Minn.
Randy Reinke retires from our board
Randy Reinke is retiring from the Southwest Initiative Foundation Board of Directors following nine years of service. Randy has provided regional leadership on SWIF’s board since July 2014, including as board chair from 2019 to 2021. In honor of his board service, Randy is directing a $900 grant to the Litchfield Area Community Foundation’s Waterpark Fund.
