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…
As Halloween approaches, many of us are excited about the spooky decorations, creative costumes, and the joy of trick-or-treating. But with all the fun comes a surge in waste—whether it’s plastic candy wrappers, cheap costumes that get thrown out, or even the pollution from extra driving. Here are five easy ways to make your Halloween…
This September, west central Minnesota was brimming with energy as communities came together to celebrate Welcoming Week. From Mexican Folk Dancers twirling vibrantly in Moorhead to an Aztec dance group sharing traditional rhythms in Elbow Lake—these events were just a glimpse of the cultural richness that unfolded across our region. These events and many more…
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…
As rural communities in west central Minnesota look to prosper, one growth strategy is welcoming new residents to the community, especially those who have moved from other nations. What can rural communities do to welcome these newcomers? It’s an important question as community advocates understand that building the local social economy pays dividends for the…
As summer comes to a close and sports are back in session, it’s time to think about how students are getting to school. The bright yellow school buses will pick up students, and the drop-off and pick-up lines will be full, but how many students walk or bike to school this year? Walking and biking…
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