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Early Care Foundation of Pope County Expands Support for Child-Care Providers and Families
Community leaders are advancing long-term solutions to child-care challenges through the Early Care Foundation of Pope County, a Component Fund of West Central Initiative. The fund is focused on strengthening early care and learning opportunities while supporting providers and families across the county. Local partners spent years working together to address a growing shortage of child care. A community-led…
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Legacy Fund Carries Forward Claire Ann Shover Nursery School’s Vision for Early Childhood Education in Fergus Falls
A beloved piece of Fergus Falls history continues to shape the future of local children through the Early Childhood Education & Amenities – Claire Ann Shover Legacy Fund, a Component Fund of West Central Initiative. Originally established in 1933, the Claire Ann Shover Nursery School created the community’s first formal early childhood education opportunity, grounded in…
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Early Care and Development Foundation of Becker County Takes on Child-Care Shortage
The Early Care and Development Foundation of Becker County (ECDF) is strengthening communities across the county by supporting child-care providers and expanding access to high-quality care and education. The need for expanded child care in Becker County has been clear for several years. A 2019 needs analysis, conducted by First Children’s Finance, found a shortage of…
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Q&A with Audubon Area Community Development Foundation
The Audubon Area Community Development Foundation raises, manages, and distributes funds to support community nonprofit and city projects in the Audubon area, including the Food Forest Project. We talked with Meghan Eastman, Clerk and Treasurer of the City of Audubon, to learn more about the fund. What is the Food Forest Project? Audubon City Park lies in the heart of the city. In the summer, families picnic in…
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Pickleball Strengthens Community Connection Across Otter Tail County
Across our region, communities are adding a new amenity—pickleball courts! Pickleball, originally developed in 1965, blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong to create a fast-paced, active game enjoyed by people of all ages. The sport encourages movement, connection, and fun, and is easy to learn. It only requires a paddle, a ball, access to…
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Rooted In Wheaton: The Rikimoto Family’s Commitment to Community Generosity
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…
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Perham’s Iconic Community Auditorium gets Local Love
All it takes is an idea. That was the case last summer when some Perham friends felt that their beloved community auditorium was in dire need of a significant facelift. Indeed, while the venue hosts performances year-round, there were signs of neglect. Repairs and upgrades were needed on stage, backstage, and the seating area. Lights…
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