Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story.
For 35 years, Southwest Initiative Foundation has been part of writing southwest Minnesota’s success story. The story isn’t finished yet!
We’ve set ambitious goals to “Grow Our Own” and ensure that all kids and families who call our region home can access the support and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
We believe that all southwest Minnesota kids are our kids, and that now, more than ever, our kids need us to provide connection, care and encouragement. There is power in each of us. And, we’re even stronger together.
Join us for a virtual forum featuring award-winning speaker and bestselling author, Josh Shipp. This forum is designed to be short but powerful. It’s full of practical tactics and an inspiring message!
Select the date/time option that works best for you.
All sessions include a pre-recorded presentation from Josh Shipp, followed by connecting time with fellow participants to reflect and share ideas of what you see working to support kids and families in your community.
Tues., March 2 @ 12-1:15 p.m.
Registration is closed for this date.
Thurs., March 4 @ 4-5:15 p.m.
Register for March 4Fri., March 5 @ 9-10:15 a.m.
Register for March 5These will be hosted as Zoom meetings. For the best experience, you’ll need access to audio and video through your computer or mobile device.
Questions? Contact Jenelle Stiras at jenelles@swifoundation.org.
Meet Josh Shipp
Statistically, Josh Shipp should be dead, in jail or homeless. But his success as a preeminent author, speaker and global youth empowerment expert is living proof of the power of one caring adult.
A former at-risk foster kid turned youth advocate, Josh is renowned for the documentary TV series on A&E that followed his groundbreaking work with youth and families. He has written two national bestsellers to date, “The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans” – winner of the Nautilus Gold Award for Parenting & Family – and “The Teen’s Guide to World Domination.” Thanks to the support of teachers, counselors, and a wonderful set of foster parents, Josh went on to be listed on Inc. Magazine’s 30 under 30 list and is now a postgraduate student at Harvard.
Learn more about Josh on his website.
Access Josh Shipp’s One Caring Adult Curriculum for free
Southwest Initiative Foundation has secured access to Josh Shipp’s Social-Emotional Learning Curriculum, including a video library, discussion questions, and more. It’s a great tool for parents, grandparents, educators, faith leaders and all caring adults!