West Central Initiative

Home Energy Workshop
2026-04-11 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Ottertail Community Center, 93 Lake Avenue, Ottertail, MN, 56571, United States
Join us on Saturday, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a fun and informative energy efficiency workshop in Ottertail, Minnesota!
During the workshop, we’ll explore content from the Clean Energy Resource Teams Community Energy Ambassador Program, collaborate in small groups to brainstorm ways to make homes and communities more energy-efficient, and share practical steps you can take to lower energy costs at home.
This event is ideal for anyone interested in energy efficiency and clean energy, curious about careers in solar, HVAC, or construction management, or eager to connect with others who want to make a difference.
If you finish the program and complete an additional community engagement task by the end of April, you’ll be entered to win a backpack solar charger!
We’ll provide lunch and beverages for all registered attendees.
RSVP by Friday, April 10, to save your spot!

Plastic Reduction Organizing Meet-Up
2026-04-08 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit) | https://wcif.org/event/plastic-reduction-organizing-meet-up/
If you joined us for a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics and were inspired to take the next step, or if you haven’t seen the movie but want to join with others to advance action against plastic waste in west central Minnesota, this meet-up is for you!
Meet others engaged with this issue and learn about next steps for a regional group—shaped by your interests and skill sets.
Register for the Zoom meeting.

Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 - Morris
2026-03-24 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | West Central Research and Outreach Center, 46352 MN-329, Morris, 56267, United States
Learn about solar energy and its benefits for your home, or small business. Solar United Neighbors will take you through the technology, economics, financing, and more.
This presentation from the experts at Solar United Neighbors will answer all your questions about going solar. You’ll learn about the solar program, solar technology, and financial considerations.
Register to attend the Morris Solar 101.

Battle Lake Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2026-02-26 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
Join us and the Battle Lake First Lutheran on February 26 at 6 p.m. at the Battle Lake High School Auditorium for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden crisis of microplastics.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a documentary that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our environment—and our bodies. This compelling film explores the global impact of microplastic pollution, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, local ecosystems, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
Whether you’re passionate about environmental justice, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.
This event is free and open to everyone, and movie snacks are provided.
We’ll begin the film at 6 p.m. with a community discussion to follow.
Please RSVP by February 24 to save your spot!

Home Energy Workshop
2026-02-21 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Join us on Saturday, February 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a fun and informative energy efficiency workshop in Ottertail, Minnesota.
During the workshop, we’ll explore content from the Clean Energy Resource Teams Community Energy Ambassador Program, collaborate in small groups to brainstorm ways to make homes and communities more energy-efficient, and share practical steps you can take to lower energy costs at home.
This event is ideal for anyone interested in energy efficiency and clean energy, curious about careers in solar, HVAC, or construction management, or eager to connect with others who want to make a difference.
If you complete the CERTs program by Earth Day, you will be entered to win a backpack solar charger, with a hardware store gift card also included to support your next project.
We’ll provide lunch and beverages for all registered attendees.
RSVP by Friday, February 20, to save your spot!

Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 - Virtual
2026-02-17 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Learn about solar energy and its benefits for your home, or small business. Solar United Neighbors will take you through the technology, economics, financing, and more.
This presentation from the experts at Solar United Neighbors will answer all your questions about going solar. You’ll learn about the solar program, solar technology, and financial considerations.
Register to attend the Virtual 101.

Legislative Kaffeeklatsch
2026-01-30 07:00 - 08:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Lakes Country Service Cooperative & West Central Initiative invite you to join us for a virtual Legislative Kaffeeklatsch to hear from our region’s legislators. Darielle Dannen will moderate the event.
Register Today

The Great Transfer of Wealth: Partnering with Local Philanthropy for Better Communities
2026-01-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
We’re hosting The Great Transfer of Wealth: Partnering with Local Philanthropy for Better Communities, a free class for anyone who cares deeply about their community!
Join us and Detroit Lakes Community Education on January 26 at 7 p.m. at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) in Detroit Lakes. We’ll explore what the upcoming Great Transfer of Wealth means for our region, share our financial and estate planning tools, and discuss why communities across the country are coming together around generosity and legacy.

All attendees will receive an endorsed estate planning guide to help turn their values into lasting impact.

Visit http://dlschools.arux.app/…/creating-a-legacy-for-your… to register today!

Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2026-01-19 17:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
Join us and The Grant County Collaborative on January 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the West Central Area Secondary School in Barrett, Minnesota for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden crisis of microplastics.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a documentary that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our environment—and our bodies. This compelling film explores the global impact of microplastic pollution, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, local ecosystems, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
Whether you’re passionate about environmental justice, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.
This event is free and open to everyone, and a meal will be provided.
We’ll start with the meal at 5:30 p.m., then begin the film at 6 p.m., with a community discussion to follow.
Please RSVP to save your spot!

Sustainable Communities Network: Let’s Get Energized! New State Rebate Programs for Energy Efficiency
2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Join us and special guest Kathleen Hovland from the Minnesota Department of Commerce to learn more about saving money with high efficiency appliance upgrades and upcoming state rebate programs. Minnesota’s Commerce Department will be launching Save Energy Minnesota, comprised of four new residential rebate programs, in late 2025.
This is your chance to learn more about the requirements and rollout of these new programs:

Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR)
Home Efficiency Rebate (HOMES)
State Residential Heat Pump Rebate
State Electrical Panel Upgrade Grant

How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Promote and distribute education and information to residents and businesses on advantages of and options for energy efficient appliances.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Click here to register to attend.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.

Pelican Rapids Going Local Workshop
2025-11-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Through our Rural Democracy program, we are working to increase civic participation—an essential foundation for building an equitable and sustainable future. One key initiative of this program is Going Local, a free, two-hour rural democracy workshop designed for residents of west central Minnesota.
Join us on November 19 from 6-8 p.m. at the Pelican Rapids Public Library and come together to share food and stories, explore the unique challenges facing rural communities, and discover practical steps we can take together to create stronger, healthier communities. If you’re interested in getting more involved locally and want to learn how to begin, Going Local is a great place to start.
To learn more or register, contact Rural Democracy Network Coordinator Justin Moen at justin@wcif.org or call 218-998-1636.
Register by Monday, November 17, and be part of the change!

Elbow Lake Going Local Workshop
2025-11-12 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | MN
Through our Rural Democracy program, we are working to increase civic participation—an essential foundation for building an equitable and sustainable future. One key initiative of this program is Going Local, a free, two-hour rural democracy workshop designed for residents of west central Minnesota.
Join us on November 12 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Elbow Lake Community Building and come together to share food and stories, explore the unique challenges facing rural communities, and discover practical steps we can take together to create stronger, healthier communities. If you’re interested in getting more involved locally and want to learn how to begin, Going Local is a great place to start.
To learn more or register, contact Rural Democracy Network Coordinator Justin Moen at justin@wcif.org or call 218-998-1636.
Register by Monday, November 10, and be part of the change!

Rural Democracy Summit 2025: Toward a Positive Rural Vision
2025-10-31 09:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Join us on October 31 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. for the Rural Democracy Summit 2025: Toward a Positive Rural Vision!
Spend the day in dynamic conversations and collaborations that strengthen democracy and build thriving rural communities. Community members, leaders, and changemakers from across west central Minnesota will gather to share insights, tackle challenges, and shape a future rooted in hope and cooperation.
This event includes a panel discussion, featuring:

Heidi Heitkamp, former United States Senator.
Tom Horner, former candidate for governor and former chief of staff for United States Senator David Durenberger.
Mark Ritchie, former Minnesota Secretary of State.
Kathy Cramer, author and professor.
Lori Sturdevant, as moderator, retired Star Tribune political columnist.

After the panel, take part in interactive breakout sessions led by sector leaders. Share your perspective, ask questions, and contribute to creating a positive rural vision for the region. Together, we’ll explore what’s possible when we focus on hope, cooperation, and collective action. Whether you lead, organize, or simply care deeply about the future of west central Minnesota, your voice matters.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and chart the path forward for our region.
Lunch is provided. This event is free and open to all, and spots are limited!

Run4Rural - Fergus Falls
2025-10-10 - 2025-10-11 | MN
Run4Rural is our 1 ½ day free public leadership training program designed for people interested in growing and strengthening their local communities through elected office and other forms of public leadership. This nonpartisan training will be useful for existing and emerging rural leaders and people active in their community whether or not they have decided to run for office.
Fergus Falls Training: October 10 & 11 at West Central Initiative
Training sessions will take place on Friday afternoon and all day on Saturday.
Register by Thursday, October 9 to save your spot!
Learn More about Run4Rural.

Fergus Falls Energy Efficiency Boot Camp
2025-10-04 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Level up your energy game and spend the day with the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) learning about energy efficiency and clean energy — and have fun doing it.
We’ll work through and discuss content from the Clean Energy Resource Teams Community Energy Ambassador Program, work in teams to brainstorm ways to make your home or community more energy-efficient, and leave with actionable project ideas. Finish your project after the event and you’ll become a CERTified Community Energy Ambassador, complete with a certificate, lapel pin, and bragging rights.
This event is perfect if you’re curious about clean energy, looking for a unique resume booster, interested in careers in solar, HVAC, construction management, or other energy-related fields, or just want to meet new friends who care about making a difference.
Plus, if you complete a Community Energy Ambassador project after the Boot Camp, you’ll be entered to win a solar backpack charger. Light breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided.
RSVP by Friday, October 3, to save your spot!
Agenda:
9:15 a.m. Coffee, pastries, and tour of the new solar installation at our office (optional)
10-12 p.m. Community engagement strategies, paying for energy projects, and home energy efficiency
12-12:30 p.m. Lunch
12:30-2:30 p.m. Heat pumps, solar, and Electric Vehicles (EVs) for greater Minnesota
2:30-3:30 p.m. Project brainstorming and planning
3:30 p.m. Closing and next steps

Welcoming Week
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-21 | MN
Welcoming Week 2025—Stories We Share
Join us in celebrating Welcoming Week 2025, September 12-21, 2025!
We envision a future where all people feel welcome, appreciated for their unique attributes, and connected to their neighbors, communities, and natural environments.
As communities in our region look ahead to growing economically and socially, it is vital to provide a welcoming, safe space for all newcomers.
That is why we participate in Welcoming Week, a national movement organized by Welcoming America that helps communities become more welcoming to newcomers. Welcoming Week celebrations bring together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong communities and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity.
See a full list of Welcoming Week events taking place in our region here.

Sustainable Communities Network: The Morris Model Blueprint for Community Resilience
2025-09-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
You’re invited to learn more about the success of the Morris Model – an award-winning group made up of partner organizations working together towards a shared vision of advancing a sustainable community in Morris, Minnesota, and west central Minnesota.
The Morris Model focuses its work on energy conservation, clean energy, community resilience, cultural exchange, and celebration with specific goal areas within clean and efficient energy, transportation, waste reduction and recycling, and education. Learn more about what made the Morris Model successful with the new Morris Model Coordinator Talitha Anderson, and what steps you can take to support similar initiatives in your own community!
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Promote and incentivize local renewable energy projects. Explore leveraging existing incentives to increase renewable energy utilization and generation throughout the region.
Collaborate with residential and commercial waste haulers to establish organics diversion programs for residential and commercial buildings. Support and encourage local governments to use strategies to move the municipal operations toward zero-waste.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Click here to register to attend.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.

The Great Wealth Transfer
2025-09-09 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Discover what the Great Wealth Transfer means—for you, your clients, your practice, and your community.
Over the next 20 years, trillions of dollars will change hands as wealth is passed from one generation to the next. This moment—known as the Great Wealth Transfer—presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape the future of our region.
We invite financial professionals and individuals to a valuable evening of learning, conversation, and connection. This event is designed to help you explore how thoughtful charitable giving can benefit families and the communities they care about.
You’ll hear from rural sociologist Ben Winchester on the scale of this transfer and the transformative opportunities it presents for communities like ours, explore how individuals and families can create lasting local impact through legacy planning and charitable giving, and gain real-world tools and insights from legal, accounting, and financial experts to support meaningful, tax-wise giving.
This session will help:

Financial professionals gain tools to lead legacy conversations and strengthen client relationships.

Individuals and families explore values-based giving that creates lasting local impact.

All attendees understand how to partner with community foundations for strategic, community-focused philanthropy.

Agenda
4 p.m. | Welcome & Introduction
4:15 – 4:45 p.m. | Ben Winchester, Research Fellow, University of Minnesota ExtensionTopic: Great Wealth Transfer & Charitable Impact Potential in Community
4:45 – 5:15 p.m. | Panel: From Our Experts – Turning Insight Into ActionHow to use this information to guide charitable giving that lifts communities.

Janel Fredericksen, Estate Attorney, Smith & Strege

Kyle Wesely, CPA, Managing Shareholder, Wesely & Wesely CPAs

Tim Stauffer, Regional Vice President of Retirement Strategies, Prudential

5:15 – 6 p.m. | Q&A and One-on-One ConversationsConnect directly with our panel of experts. Guests are encouraged to bring questions for tailored guidance.
Refreshments and appetizers provided.

Come as a team. Leave inspired.
Space is limited, so RSVP today for you and your clients, family members, or guests who are interested in the future of their wealth and their community.

Morris Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2025-09-08 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Morris Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics

Join us and the Morris Model to explore the microplastic public health crisis present in our community and everyday life.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a documentary that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our food, water, air, and our bodies, both globally and at a local level.

After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, the land we live and work on, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
We’ll also be joined by Mary Kosuth, a special guest from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health!

Whether you’re passionate about community health, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.

This event is free & open to all, and movie snacks are provided.

The film will start at 6 p.m. with conversation to follow.
Click here to register to attend!

Fergus Falls Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2025-08-19 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | MN
Fergus Falls Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
Join us at the Fergus Falls Public Library on August 19 for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden crisis of microplastics.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a documentary that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our environment—and our bodies. This compelling film explores the global impact of microplastic pollution, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, local ecosystems, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
Whether you’re passionate about environmental justice, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.
This event is free & open to all! No registration is required and movie snacks are provided.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m. with conversation to follow.

Sustainable Communities Network: Protecting Water Quality with Shoreline Restoration
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Protecting Water Quality with Shoreline Restoration
Join us for an engaging session on shoreline restoration and learn how natural shorelines play a vital role in protecting water quality and sustaining healthy lake ecosystems.
Pete Guck, Riparian Conservation Specialist with the East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District, will discuss the current state of lakeshore development in our region and explore how restoring and preserving natural shorelines can help reduce pollution, support wildlife habitat, and improve the long-term health of our lakes.
Whether you’re a lakeshore property owner, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who cares about clean water, you’ll come away with practical insights and actions you can take to support this important work.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Protecting natural waterways and lakes through addressing invasive species, pollution, recreation, fishing, wild rice, etc.
Promote reduced home fertilizer usage to reduce and eliminate water runoff capable of causing water quality impacts on the region’s surface water (such as algae blooms and low oxygen levels which harm fish)

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 14: Life Below Water
Goal 15: Life On Land

Click here to register to attend.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.

Moorhead Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2025-08-05 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Moorhead Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
Join us and Clay County Solid Waste Services at the Moorhead Public Library on August 5 for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden crisis of microplastics.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a documentary that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our environment—and our bodies. This compelling film explores the global impact of microplastic pollution, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, local ecosystems, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
Whether you’re passionate about environmental justice, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.
This event is free & open to all! No registration is required and movie snacks are provided.
The film will start at 6 p.m. with conversation to follow.

Minnesota Cooperative Summit: Cooperatively Building a Better World
2025-07-30 08:00 - 17:30 (America/Chicago) | MN
Presented by CoMinnesota, Minnesota Farmers Union, University of Minnesota Morris, and West Central Initiative.
Co-ops have the power to build a better world that includes everyone. Co-ops have been and will continue to be key for economic development in our state, from succession planning to incorporating marginalized groups to solving challenges that cannot be done alone.
Join us at the first annual Minnesota Cooperative Summit to:

Celebrate the International Year of Cooperatives.
Learn about the power and versatility of the cooperative model..
Engage in Minnesota’s rich history of cooperation to do better together
Gain inspiration from creative co-op success stories

This event welcomes current cooperatives and cooperators exploring collaboration, but it’s designed to inspire those newer to cooperatives who could learn about and incorporate cooperative strategies to meet the economic and social needs of our state in the years to come. We aim to spark cooperation across the state in the spirit of the International Year of Cooperatives.
Get Tickets & Learn More

Alexandria Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
2025-07-09 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Alexandria Screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics
Join us at the Pope/Douglas Environmental Center on July 9 for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden crisis of microplastics.
We’ll kick things off with a screening of Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, a docuseries that uncovers how tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our environment—and our bodies. This compelling film explores the global impact of microplastic pollution, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
After the screening, stay for a thought-provoking discussion about what this means for public health, local ecosystems, and our everyday choices. What steps can we take as individuals and communities to address this urgent issue? How can we push for solutions that go beyond recycling?
Whether you’re passionate about environmental justice, curious about the science behind microplastics, or simply looking to learn more, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and how we can be part of the change.
This event is free & open to all! No registration is required and movie snacks are provided.
The film will start at 6 p.m. with conversation to follow.

Sustainable Communities Network: Let's Talk Plastic
2025-07-09 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Let’s Talk Plastic
Join us to discuss plastic, one of today’s most urgent environmental challenges. Featuring special guest Nathan Reinbold from Pope Douglas Solid Waste Management, this session dives into the global Plastic Free July campaign, the surprising links between plastic production and climate change, and the emerging health risks posed by microplastics. You’ll walk away with fresh insights and practical ways to cut down on plastic in your everyday life.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Increase public awareness about sustainable habits, available services, and how to properly recycle, compost, and reduce waste
Eliminate petroleum-based, single-use products through phasing out the use of single-use plastics

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Goal 13: Climate Action

Click here to register to attend.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.

Distributed Wind for Your Farm, Rural Business, or Community
2025-07-08 09:00 - 14:30 (America/Chicago) | MN
Distributed Wind for Your Farm, Rural Business, or Community
Join us, Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs), and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) for a free, in-person workshop all about distributed wind energy. You’ll learn what it is, where it works best, and how it can benefit homes, farms, and businesses.
We’ll cover the basics—costs, payback timelines, and funding options—along with how distributed wind compares to other energy choices. You’ll also get a simple overview of the steps to start a project, what maintenance looks like, and where to find help and resources.
Topics include:

Where distributed wind makes sense

Costs and funding

Project steps and maintenance

Resources and support available

Bring your questions! This is a great chance to talk directly with the experts.
Lunch, coffee, and refreshments provided.
Click Here to Register to Attend

Sustainable Communities Network: Green Island Field Trip
2025-06-25 10:30 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Envisioning a Hopeful Future at Green Island
Join the Sustainable Communities Network for an inspiring and creative gathering at Green Island, a private nature preserve in Wadena, Minnesota. Green Island is open to the public and rich with walking paths, meditation spaces, gardens, and more.
Hosted by Kent Scheer and Vicki Chapulis, the day will blend nature, mindfulness, and art to inspire a hopeful vision for our region’s future. Walk the grounds, engage with suggested mindfulness prompts, enjoy a vegan/gluten-free lunch, hear from featured artists working at the intersection of art and sustainability, and participate in a collaborative visioning session focused on building a more sustainable region.
Agenda:

10:30 a.m. – Arrival

10:30–11:30 a.m. – Venue introduction with Kent Scheer & self-guided site tour

11:30 a.m. – Lunch

12:00 p.m. – Artist talks: Art as a tool for environmental action

12:45 p.m. – “Creating the Future” collaborative workshop

1:45 p.m. – Wrap-up

2:00 p.m. – Departure

To help reduce environmental impact, we ask that you carpool if possible, as parking is limited. It’s simply the right thing to do. We can help connect attendees from the same area to coordinate rides. Please also bring a refillable water bottle. A vegan and gluten-free lunch will be provided in compostable packaging.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.

Lake Park Going Local Workshop
2025-06-18 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Through our Rural Democracy program, we are working to increase civic participation—an essential foundation for building an equitable and sustainable future. One key initiative of this program is Going Local, a free, two-hour rural democracy workshop designed for residents of west central Minnesota.
Join us on June 18 from 6-8 p.m. at Lakes Fika and come together to share food and stories, explore the unique challenges facing rural communities, and discover practical steps we can take together to create stronger, healthier communities. If you’re interested in getting more involved locally and want to learn how to begin, Going Local is a great place to start.
To learn more or register, contact Director of Civic Partnerships Ben Schierer at ben.schierer@wcif.org or call 218-205-1337.
Register today and be part of the change!

New York Mills Going Local Workshop
2025-06-17 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Through our Rural Democracy program, we are working to increase civic participation—an essential foundation for building an equitable and sustainable future. One key initiative of this program is Going Local, a free, two-hour rural democracy workshop designed for residents of west central Minnesota.
Join us on June 17 from 1-3 p.m. at the New York Mills Public Library to share food and stories, explore the unique challenges facing rural communities, and discover practical steps we can take together to create stronger, healthier communities. If you’re interested in getting more involved locally and want to learn how to begin, Going Local is a great place to start.
To learn more or register, contact Director of Civic Partnerships Ben Schierer at ben.schierer@wcif.org or call 218-205-1337.
Register today and be part of the change!

Sustainable Communities Network: Understanding Climate’s Health Impacts with Dr. Kent Boyd
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MN
Understanding Climate’s Health Impacts with Dr. Kent Boyd
A changing climate is affecting our health, from a longer allergy season to increases in vector-borne illnesses, and more extreme heat to heavier precipitation events. Join us to learn about the public health impacts of climate change and ways to strengthen your resilience with Dr. Kent Boyd – Climate Adaptation, Resilience, and Public Health Extension Educator with the University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Assist the Region’s population in preparing for and mitigating climate change impacts, including on public health and safety.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Click here to register to attend.
Sustainable Communities Network
We invite you to join the Sustainable Communities Network and get connected to actionable climate and sustainability solutions! In the Sustainable Communities Network, you’ll connect with climate and sustainability experts and people like you working on solutions that support a resilient and sustainable future for our region.
Goals:

Connect people to actionable solutions to create more sustainable communities, now and in the future.

Build relationships across the region with each other and with the people and organizations creating positive change in their own communities.

Champion success stories and innovative projects that can be supported or replicated in other communities.

The topics and goals of the group are grounded in both the Minnesota Region 4 Climate Action Plan and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are part of our strategic framework.
