Before she became a respected voice in economic development, Beth Grosen was simply a curious kid on a farm in Horace, North Dakota, with a love for community and a knack for asking big questions. That rural upbringing sparked a lifelong interest in people and places, eventually leading her to earn a degree in urban…
In the heart of Wheaton, Minnesota, the Rikimoto family exemplifies the power of generosity and community service. Ed and Chere Rikimoto have dedicated their lives to investing in their hometown, ensuring that future generations have access to the same opportunities that shaped their own lives. Their story is one of vision, dedication, and the ripple…
Last summer, Rural Initiatives Strategist Kate Mudge and I had a “farm day” and visited several of our grantees in the Moorhead area. Here are a few examples showcasing how sustainability, education, and equity intersect in action across our region. Harvest Hope Farm Harvest Hope Farm is a kid’s dream, and every year, many lucky Moorhead…
My colleagues at West Central Initiative often smile when I say, “Donor Advised Funds are the coolest thing,” because they know that this mantra of mine is so very true. Not only do Donor Advised Funds help the donor with charitable giving throughout the year, but what our donors do with these funds makes a…
Nick and Katie Ganoe’s story began in Fergus Falls, where they spent their childhood surrounded by the warmth of community. Life eventually led them away—to college and careers—but Fergus Falls stayed close to their hearts. When the time came to imagine a life for their future family, they found themselves drawn back, knowing that the…
Providing a Home, Hope, and Healing In 2009, Becky Weers recognized a growing need to support single, pregnant women who had nowhere to turn. Driven by compassion and a desire to make a difference, Becky founded Welcome House, Inc. to provide a safe place for soon-to-be single mothers. Since then, Welcome House’s objective has evolved. Over the…
The Fergus Falls High School robotics team isn’t just about gears and wires. It’s about building life-long skills. “As much as we focus on the robot, it isn’t about building a robot. It’s about having students become the science and technology leaders of tomorrow,” Bill Swanson, the OtterBots program advisor, says. Meet the Otterbots This…
Eight local nonprofits received grants of up to $75,000 West Central Initiative was selected by the Otto Bremer Trust as a philanthropic intermediary partner to administer and distribute funds through its new Community Responsive Fund. “West Central Initiative awarded grants to eight outstanding organizations serving west central Minnesota. These organizations have shown their capability to…
West Central Initiative awarded $700,000 in grants to 46 organizations working across west central Minnesota to address sustainability, equity, rural social isolation, and rural democracy. “The quality and breadth of the important work being done by these grant recipients in our region is inspiring,” said Director of Development Rebecca Lynn Petersen. “This year, we’ve more…
West Central Initiative awarded 57 grants totaling almost $115,000 to organizations serving the Fergus Falls, Perham, and Dent communities from three personally endowed legacy funds. “The Deloris Barnack Kenner, Floyd and Harriet Miller, and Inga M. Johnson Funds were established to create lasting impacts by generously supporting the namesake’s favorite causes and organizations in our…
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