Jackie Turner is retiring from her role as an economic development officer at Southwest Initiative Foundation. Jackie has been a remarkable champion for entrepreneurs, and our region is better because of her commitment and expertise. During her tenure, our microloan program earned national, regional and state recognition. Jackie mentored more than 300 loan clients at the foundation, offering each one a relationship that extended well beyond a balance sheet or a business plan.
News
Windom Veterans Memorial a testament to service
Driving through Windom on Highway 71, you can’t miss the flags snapping smartly in the breeze over the Windom Veterans Memorial at the center of town. Limestone blocks dovetail black stone monuments, each etched with the image of a service member from different branches of the military. The memorial is a testament not only to the service of those in the armed forces, but also to the everyday service shown by those who care for our rural communities.
How community foundations are making a difference in southwest Minnesota
Community foundations take the kindness of neighbors and turn it into something bigger. They amplify the ordinary ways we care for each other as individuals, bringing together donors, residents, and nonprofits to help our communities thrive. Whether you’re familiar with your local community foundation or not, chances are you’ve felt its influence. To give you an idea of the good that’s happening, we have updates from a handful of our newest community foundation partners.
Prairie Support Services
Jessica Schoborg is now the sole owner of local small business Prairie Support Services in Walnut Grove thanks to help from the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program. Jessica has worked for Prairie Support Services for the past 5 years. When the opportunity arose to purchase the business, she decided to buy it because she wanted to keep it in the community. Plans are under way to relocate the business to 422 First Avenue in Westbrook this December.
Welcoming Week in Litchfield with Chukuma
Chukuma Ijioma works for Meeker County Health and Human Services as a Public Health Educator, which involves assessing, analyzing and creating health programs in Meeker County to prevent diseases and improving the health of those who live and work in Meeker County. Chukuma wanted to start Meeker County’s Welcoming Week and be a part of the planning because he saw a need for it in the community.
Welcoming Week in Willmar with Abdifatah
Abdifatah Mohamed is the executive director of the Willmar nonprofit Community Connector Services (CCS) where he actively involved in leading initiatives such as the monthly Youthwell Collective series, the Comprehensive Plan Open House, Somali Independence Day and the Mindful Willmar Champions League. Beyond CCS, Abdifatah engages with broader community events like Welcoming Week in Willmar and the International Heritage Festival. His work focuses on creating spaces where everyone feels included and supported.
