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Long Prairie has been experiencing a remarkable transformation recently, thanks to the Initiative Foundation's Main Street Revitalization Program. The Initiative Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to fostering community development, received a grant of nearly $4.5 million, designated to breathe new life into Main Streets across six cities, including Long Prairie. In Long Prairie alone, approximately $490,000 was allocated to fuel revitalization efforts.An ability to align perfectly with program guidelinesDon Hickman, the Vice President for Community & Workforce Development at the Initiative Foundation, provided valuable insights into the grant application and approval process. He highlighted the quality of applications received from...

a)Restoration of Riverside Park Nestled in the heart of Long Prairie, Minnesota, Riverside Park stands as a testament to history, community, and nature. Once a vibrant tourist attraction designed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1936, this park has endured years of neglect and transformation. However, a promising opportunity awaits as the city seeks funding to restore its former glory and imbue it with a newfound purpose. The park's story began in 1936 when the Minnesota DOT envisioned a tourist haven by the riverside. The WPA's skilled hands turned...

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Inc. has awarded a grant to Lakewood Health System in Long Prairie, Minnesota. This grant aims to support implementing the "Todd County Promotores" initiative, which will integrate the Community Health Coordinator into a multi-sector community team designed to deliver culturally competent practices and interventions to improve health and social outcomes for Hispanic/Latina mothers and their children. Community Health Coordinator, Johanna Kegg says, "The CHC will serve as the liaison between the Lakewood Health System, community partners, and mothers who live in Todd County. The primary focus of this project is to address health disparities...

Long Prairie is undergoing a stunning visual transformation as it embraces a renewed commitment to beautification. Several initiatives are in the cards to enhance the city's visual appeal, bringing a sense of vibrancy and a fresh look to the community. One notable change is the replacement of all Christmas decorations after 25 years of faithful service. The city recognized the need for a lighter and brighter display, so energy-efficient LED lights were chosen. These new decorations aim to provide a festive ambiance during the holiday season and contribute to a more eco-friendly environment. Improvements to the city's signage...

The Initiative Foundation is an organization that serves Central Minnesota, including 14 counties and two sovereign tribal nations, offering business loans, nonprofit grants, leadership training, and donor services through its Partner Funds programs. The Foundation aims to improve the quality of life and build stronger communities in the region. Since 1986, the Initiative Foundation has invested multiple millions in the area through targeted grants and business financing investments. In partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Initiative Foundation has approved 12 hometown projects that will bring over $10.2 million in main street improvements to...