West Central Initiative

Who We Are

When Minnesota faced a farming crisis that threatened to break the economic backbone of our region, we went to work—empowering our neighbors to overcome barriers to meaningful work and well-being. Thirty-seven years later, strengthening our region through philanthropy and planning remains our reason for being. 

What We Do

Through generosity and planning, we fuel insight and action for the benefit of our region and our world. Along the way, we understand our progress through the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. We’re committed to advancing these goals for the people of Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, and Wilkin Counties, and White Earth Nation. 

Support Our Region by Donating to Our Planting Seeds of Generosity Project

Our corner of Minnesota has undulating prairies in every direction, miles of fertile farmland, some flat and some on rolling hills that rise to the horizon from valleys below, and more lakes than one can imagine. We are both stewards and beneficiaries of this stunning natural bounty and beauty.

This year, our goal is to plant seeds of generosity across our region. Through funds raised during this campaign, we will distribute packets of native plant seeds to communities in our region for spring sowing. People and pollinators alike will enjoy this gift of vibrant blooms and dramatic prairie grasses.

Will you make a gift to provide native plant seeds to your favorite west central Minnesota community? 

Support Your Community by Donating to a Component Fund

As a regional community foundation, we establish and manage dedicated permanent funds that address specific charitable needs in our region. We call these funds “component funds” because they are part of our mission. Component funds allow advisory committees to focus on the charitable need and leave the administrative tasks to us. This partnership ensures local needs are met and all financial transactions meet state and federal guidelines. Along with these community-based funds are business funds, family trust funds, and some organizational funds. Donate to your favorite component fund for Give to the Max Day below!

A vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable world starts here in west central Minnesota. Donors like you help to make it possible.