West Central Initiative

Immigration in Minnesota’s West Central Region: A Changing Story Virtual Event
2024-10-15 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
Minnesota’s rural areas and small towns are constantly evolving. Immigration has been a part of our communities’ stories for more than 100 years and will continue to shape our region for generations to come. Join us to learn more about this changing and dynamic history. Allison Liuzzi, Project Director of MN Compass, will share recent and historic trends in immigration in our communities. Who were our region’s immigrants in the 1800s, 1900s, and today? How do our immigrant communities look different from the state and the nation? How do immigrants contribute to our economy and workforce? Come prepared to learn something new and to bring your own experiences and reflections; this presentation will include time for questions, answers, and discussion.
Click here to register for this free event.

Climate Catalysts
2024-10-17 14:00 - 15:30
Join us on Zoom in October to learn about how food waste contributes to climate change and how the growth of Organics Recycling Programs in the region can help divert food waste from landfills.
Climate Catalysts October Meeting Agenda:

Group introductions
Climate data highlight – Food Waste and Climate Impacts
Presentation on the growth of Organics Recycling Programs in the region with Pope/Douglas Solid Waste, Otter Tail County, Stevens County, and Becker County Solid Waste Departments. Presenters will share outcomes from existing programs, plans for upcoming programs or program growth, and lessons learned that can help other communities get started.
Resource Sharing
Climate-related project updates from attendees
Time for discussion

Presentation topics will vary by month, if you have a project or program you would like featured, let us know! Upcoming topics for Climate Catalyst meetings include the CERTs Energy Ambassador Program, plastics and climate, climate storytelling, and more!
Climate Catalysts is a networking group comprised of regional stakeholders, community leaders, and West Central Initiative staff that convenes monthly around climate action in west central Minnesota. The Climate Catalysts group:

Supports cross-sectoral relationship building around climate action through regular conversations and idea sharing.
Collaborates by coordinating efforts and tracking progress on climate-related initiatives across the region.
Advocates for and supports climate work in the region, state, and beyond.
Shares information from and with partners, including training and educational opportunities, funding/resources, and events.
Educates and supports the development of regional climate champions: spokespeople knowledgeable in specific sectors in the Climate Action Plan.

Click here to register to attend.

Solar PV Permitting and Inspection Best Practices
2024-10-23 12:00 - 14:00
Join us and SolSmart for a virtual training session on best practices in permitting and inspection for solar PV installations. The permitting and inspection process is one of the most important tools local governments can use to encourage more rooftop solar installations. This free training will provide communities with strategies for streamlining permitting processes and improving solar inspections.
Since 2016, SolSmart has helped over 500 local governments prepare for solar energy market growth. With funding from the US Department of Energy, SolSmart provides free technical assistance to help cities, counties, small towns, and regional organizations achieve clean energy goals. SolSmart has established solar best practices across local processes such as permitting, inspection, planning, government operations, community engagement, and market development.
This webinar will give you an overview of the program basics and new updates to keep you on top of the solar energy transition. This webinar will highlight mechanisms through which communities can streamline the permitting process for local solar development.
This free training will provide communities with strategies for incorporating solar into plans, ordinances, and development regulations.
Click here to register for the Zoom meeting.

Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 - Morris
2024-11-12 18:30 - 20:00
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.

Solar PV Permitting and Inspection Best Practices
2024-11-19 15:00 - 17:00
Canceled
Join us and SolSmart for a virtual training session on best practices in permitting and inspection for solar PV installations. The permitting and inspection process is one of the most important tools local governments can use to encourage more rooftop solar installations. This free training will provide communities with strategies for streamlining permitting processes and improving solar inspections.
Since 2016, SolSmart has helped over 500 local governments prepare for solar energy market growth. With funding from the US Department of Energy, SolSmart provides free technical assistance to help cities, counties, small towns, and regional organizations achieve clean energy goals. SolSmart has established solar best practices across local processes such as permitting, inspection, planning, government operations, community engagement, and market development.
This webinar will give you an overview of the program basics and new updates to keep you on top of the solar energy transition. This webinar will highlight mechanisms through which communities can streamline the permitting process for local solar development.
This free training will provide communities with strategies for incorporating solar into plans, ordinances, and development regulations.

Going Local - Underwood
2024-11-20 17:00 - 19:30
Going Local is our free rural democracy workshop. At the Going Local workshops, we’ll share food and stories, learn about some of the unique challenges rural communities face, and explore what we can do together to make our community stronger and healthier. West Central Initiative is hosting this workshop in partnership with Sverdrup Lutheran Church and the Unitarian Church of Underwood.
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Going Local - Hoffman
2024-11-21 17:30 - 19:30
Going Local is our free rural democracy workshop. At the Going Local workshops, we’ll share food and stories, learn about some of the unique challenges rural communities face, and explore what we can do together to make our community stronger and healthier.
Oops! We could not locate your form.

Climate Catalysts
2024-11-22 09:30 - 16:30
Climate Catalysts November Gathering
Join us for a special in-person meeting on Friday, November 22, at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center in Fergus Falls. The program for the day includes a session with the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) on their Community Energy Ambassador Program and other programs, updates from West Central Initiative climate staff, a special preview workshop from the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership (MCAP) Community Climate Leaders Program, and of course networking and great food!
Agenda
Coffee and Conversation – 9:30 – 10 a.m.
West Central Initiative Welcome – 10:00 – 10:10 a.m.
CERTs Energy Ambassador Program and Updates – 10:10 – 10:50 a.m.
Heidi Auel, Central CERT Coordinator, and Imani Moser, West Central CERT Coordinator, will discuss how to join the Community Energy Ambassador program. The program is designed to advance clean energy projects within Minnesota communities. As a Community Energy Ambassador, you gain access to the knowledge and skills needed to help others meaningfully participate in the clean energy transition. You also support communities in their efforts to start clean energy projects with relevant resources and connections.
Climate Conversation Groups – 11 – 11:20 a.m.
Lunch – 11:30 – Noon
Talking Climate – Noon – 12:30 p.m.
Review climate change basics with West Central Initiative Climate Resiliency Officer Griffin Peck and climate communications tips with West Central Initiative Climate Officer Cedar Walters.
MCAP Community Climate Leaders Preview – 12:40 – 3 p.m.
Christy Marsden, Curriculum Manager with MCAP, will lead us through an interactive Climate Storytelling workshop that’s part of the Community Climate Leaders Program that will launch in 2025. In the workshop, you will reflect on your climate story, which may include your experience of climate change, what motivates you to take climate action, or your vision of a better future. Connecting climate impacts to our lived experiences can help us connect with others, and we can use those connections to drive personal and community change.
Happy Hour to follow– 3:30 -4:30 p.m.
Please RSVP below to let us know you’re coming!

Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 - Fergus Falls
2024-12-04 18:30 - 20:00
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 Fergus Falls Solar 101.

Climate Catalysts
2024-12-19 14:00 - 15:30
Join us on Zoom in December to learn about our local food systems and regenerative agriculture in west central Minnesota.
Climate Catalysts December Meeting Agenda:

Group introductions and breakout room
Climate data highlight
Presentation: “Exploring the impacts of local food and regenerative agriculture in the region.”
Presentation topics will vary by month, if you have a project or program you would like featured, let us know! Upcoming topics for Climate Catalyst meetings include the CERTs Energy Ambassador Program, plastics and climate, climate storytelling, and more!

Climate Catalysts is a networking group comprised of regional stakeholders, community leaders, and West Central Initiative staff that convenes monthly around climate action in west central Minnesota. The Climate Catalysts group:

Supports cross-sectoral relationship building around climate action through regular conversations and idea sharing.
Collaborates by coordinating efforts and tracking progress on climate-related initiatives across the region.
Advocates for and supports climate work in the region, state, and beyond.
Shares information from and with partners, including training and educational opportunities, funding/resources, and events.
Educates and supports the development of regional climate champions: spokespeople knowledgeable in specific sectors in the Climate Action Plan.

Click here to register to attend.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant Information Webinar
2025-01-08 15:00 - 16:00
Join us to learn more about the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grants available through West Central Initiative.
Local governments in small cities or towns with populations under 15,000 are eligible to apply. Awards to local governments can be between $2,000 and $20,000. Other local units of government, such as a township, school district, parks district, or any combination of those units operating under an agreement to exercise powers jointly, can use the funds. Funds cannot be used for implementation projects.
Local governments may use funds for a variety of energy planning and project development uses, including but not limited to:

Climate, energy, and resiliency planning.
Energy audits on government facilities.
Engineering and technical assistance services for government facilities.
Other energy-related studies for public buildings and community plans.

West Central Initiative was awarded an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) from the Minnesota Department of Energy to support energy efficiency and climate and energy planning activities to reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions and improve energy efficiency.
Tune in to this webinar to learn more about this grant opportunity.
Register to attend.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant Information Webinar
2025-01-16 18:30 - 19:00
Join us to learn more about the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grants available through West Central Initiative.
Local governments in small cities or towns with populations under 15,000 are eligible to apply. Awards to local governments can be between $2,000 and $20,000. Other local units of government, such as a township, school district, parks district, or any combination of those units operating under an agreement to exercise powers jointly, can use the funds. Funds cannot be used for implementation projects.
Local governments may use funds for a variety of energy planning and project development uses, including but not limited to:

Climate, energy, and resiliency planning.
Energy audits on government facilities.
Engineering and technical assistance services for government facilities.
Other energy-related studies for public buildings and community plans.

West Central Initiative was awarded an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) from the Minnesota Department of Commerce to support energy efficiency and climate and energy planning activities to reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions and improve energy efficiency.
Tune in to this webinar to learn more about this grant opportunity.
Register to attend.

Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 - Moorhead
2025-01-23 18:30 - 20:00
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 Moorhead Solar 101.

Legislative Kaffeeklatsch
2025-01-31 07:00 - 08:00
Lakes Country Service Cooperative & West Central Initiative invite you to join us for a virtual Legislative Kaffeeklatsch to hear from our region’s legislators. Lobbyist Sam Walseth will moderate the event.
Register Today

Sustainable Communities Network: Should I buy an Electric Vehicle (EV)?
2025-02-12 12:00 - 13:00
Should I buy an EV?
How do you know if buying an electric vehicle (EV) is the right choice for you? Join the Sustainable Communities Network and the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) to learn more about EV rebates, EV charging options, and an EV owner panel so you can hear about owner experiences – the good, the bad, and everything in between!
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Educate the public on existing state, federal, and utility incentives for efficient and electric vehicles, including tax incentives and at-home electric vehicle charging outlet incentives.
Support improved awareness of EV technology, performance, operational cost savings and other benefits through organized “EV Ride and Drive” events throughout the region.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
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.

Sustainable Communities Network: Water Conservation and Rain Barrels with River Keepers
2025-03-12 12:00 - 13:00
Water Conservation and Rain Barrels with River Keepers
Learn about water conservation and rain barrels with the Sustainable Communities Network and the River Keepers – a nonprofit that is dedicated to connecting the Fargo-Moorhead community safely to the Red River of the North through education, stewardship, and engagement. River Keepers will talk about their work, the importance of water conservation, and how to make a DIY rain barrel or source a rain barrel.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Expand water conservation outreach, communication, and education programs promoting water conservation for residents and businesses.
Promote, share and create “Actions you can take” fact sheets for businesses, homeowners, rental property owners, and renters. Incorporate other resources such as “landscaping for absorption” practices (like native plantings, rain gardens, and bioswales) and MyRain Ready.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
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.

Sustainable Communities Network: North Circle Seeds Field Trip
2025-03-27 12:00 - 14:00
Join the Sustainable Communities Network for a field trip to North Circle Seeds in Vergas, Minnesota! Owner Zachary Paige will talk about his work with the University of Minnesota Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships focused on supporting rural grocers, organic agriculture, and why he started North Circle Seeds.
Zachary will lead us on a tour that includes the seed saving operation/pack house, seed starting in his new greenhouse, food storage in a root cellar, solar panel with battery system and more. A locally sourced lunch from Manna Food Co-op and seed samples will be provided to registered participants.
Register by Wednesday, March 26 to save your spot!

Sustainable Communities Network: Seed Saving and the Power of Growing Your Own with North Circle Seeds
2025-04-09 12:00 - 13:00
Seed Saving and the Power of Growing Your Own
Get excited about starting your garden and growing your own food with Zachary Paige of North Circle Seeds and other local food enthusiasts! We will share pictures and a recap from the March field trip to North Circle Seeds as well as other information and inspiration to get you ready for gardening season.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Support efforts to identify and increase utilization of shared food system assets such as shared food storage space, community commercial kitchens, group purchasing of growing equipment such as backyard greenhouses or hoop houses, and public-private partnerships. Support adoption of regenerative management by farmers and increased equality among farmers.

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture

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.

Wheaton Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
2025-04-14 17:30 - 19:30
Wheaton Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the future of local news. We’ll kick things off with a screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink, a compelling documentary that explores the challenges facing community newspapers.
After the film, stay for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of local journalism in keeping our communities informed, engaged, and connected. With newspapers disappearing at an alarming rate, what does that mean for civic life? How can we support reliable local news?
Whether you’re a news junkie, a community advocate, or just curious about the changing media landscape, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
This event is free & open to all. No registration is required.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

Morris Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
2025-04-16 17:30 - 19:30
Morris Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the future of local news. We’ll kick things off with a screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink, a compelling documentary that explores the challenges facing community newspapers.
After the film, stay for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of local journalism in keeping our communities informed, engaged, and connected. With newspapers disappearing at an alarming rate, what does that mean for civic life? How can we support reliable local news?
Whether you’re a news junkie, a community advocate, or just curious about the changing media landscape, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
This event is free & open to all. No registration is required.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

Alexandria Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
2025-04-21 17:30 - 19:30
Alexandria Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the future of local news. We’ll kick things off with a screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink, a compelling documentary that explores the challenges facing community newspapers.
After the film, stay for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of local journalism in keeping our communities informed, engaged, and connected. With newspapers disappearing at an alarming rate, what does that mean for civic life? How can we support reliable local news?
Whether you’re a news junkie, a community advocate, or just curious about the changing media landscape, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
This event is free & open to all. No registration is required.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

Fergus Falls Screening of Storm Lake
2025-04-22 17:30 - 19:30
Fergus Falls Screening of Storm Lake
Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the future of local news. We’ll kick things off with a screening of Storm Lake, a compelling documentary that explores the challenges facing community newspapers.
After the film, stay for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of local journalism in keeping our communities informed, engaged, and connected. With newspapers disappearing at an alarming rate, what does that mean for civic life? How can we support reliable local news?
Whether you’re a news junkie, a community advocate, or just curious about the changing media landscape, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
This event is free & open to all. No registration is required.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

Pelican Rapids Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
2025-04-23 17:30 - 19:30
Pelican Rapids Screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink
Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the future of local news. We’ll kick things off with a screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink, a compelling documentary that explores the challenges facing community newspapers.
After the film, stay for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of local journalism in keeping our communities informed, engaged, and connected. With newspapers disappearing at an alarming rate, what does that mean for civic life? How can we support reliable local news?
Whether you’re a news junkie, a community advocate, or just curious about the changing media landscape, this event is for you. Let’s talk about what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
This event is free & open to all. No registration is required.
The film will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

Legislative Kaffeeklatsch
2025-04-25 07:00 - 08:00
Lakes Country Service Cooperative & West Central Initiative invite you to join us for a virtual Legislative Kaffeeklatsch to hear from our region’s legislators. Lobbyist Darielle Dannen will moderate the event.
Register Today

The View from Here: Telling the Stories of Our Region
2025-05-01 11:30 - 13:00
Join us for The View from Here: Telling the Stories of Our Region, a dynamic event exploring the power of local journalism in shaping our communities. The keynote address will be delivered by Steve Grove, the CEO and Publisher of the Minnesota Star Tribune, offering insights into the evolving media landscape.
A panel of regional newspaper representatives will discuss the challenges and opportunities of regional news and storytelling. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and celebrate the vital role of local news in our region.
Guests will be among the first to receive a copy of The View from Here: An Almanac of Life and Land in Our Region! So, what exactly is our almanac? Think of it as a modern take on the traditional almanac, designed to be an essential resource for our region’s leaders, residents, and institutions. It’s as a carefully curated collection of data, stories, and historical context—everything you need to understand the challenges, strengths, and opportunities in our region. And what better way to launch it than with this incredible event?

Lunch is provided. Space is limited, so be sure to register below to save your spot.

Event Timeline

11:30 a.m. – Doors Open & Lunch is Served
11:45 a.m. – Program Begins
1:00 p.m. – Event Concludes

Thank You to Our Sponsors: Lakes Country Service Cooperative, Otter Tail Power Company, Lake Region Healthcare, and Leighton Broadcasting

Sustainable Communities Network: Benefits of Biking with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
2025-05-14 12:00 - 13:00
Benefits of Biking with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
Learn how you can reduce fossil fuel consumption while having fun, being active, and creating community connectedness with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota—a non-profit that engages people, educates, and advocates for biking and walking state-wide! Bike MN will talk about their work hosting biking events and educating cyclists and how you can do the same in your own community.
How this connects to the Region 4 Climate Action Plan:

Develop a public communications campaign and incentives promoting alternative transportation, including biking and walking.
Support the capacity of neighborhood and community groups to implement climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives.
Support Safe Routes to School Plans and expand bike safety education for students

How this connects to the Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing
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.

Sustainable Communities Network: Understanding Climate’s Health Impacts with Dr. Kent Boyd
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00
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.

New York Mills Going Local Workshop
2025-06-17 13:00 - 15:00
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!

Lake Park Going Local Workshop
2025-06-18 18:00 - 20:00
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!

Sustainable Communities Network: Green Island Field Trip
2025-06-25 10:30 - 14:00
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.
