Rural Voice Events Lead to $35,000 in Local Grants
Nine community projects in Todd and Wadena counties will receive a total of $35,000 in grants to address mental health and social isolation in rural communities.
The Initiative Foundation, with support from Sourcewell, awarded the grants based on ideas shared by residents during late 2025 Rural Voice conversations in Wadena and Long Prairie. The projects focus on youth, seniors, arts and culture and ways to help people connect with one another.
Funded projects include a new art therapy and creative learning space for youth in Wadena, expanded opportunities for seniors to connect and volunteer in Eagle Bend, and community murals in Wadena that celebrate Finnish heritage and bring residents together through hands-on art.
“These grants are a direct response to what people told us they need and care about,” said Amy Trombley, vice president for community at the Initiative Foundation. “Rural Voice is about creating space for community members to be heard and then backing those ideas with resources.”
The work began with a fall 2025 Rural Voice town hall in Wadena, moderated by Minnesota Public Radio’s Kerri Miller. Residents continued the conversation through follow-up gatherings, moderated by Project Optimist and The Sowing Room, which helped shape the projects selected for funding.
“We are happy to partner with the Initiative Foundation and The Sowing Room to bring these projects to life,” said Paul Drange, chief regional solutions officer at Sourcewell. “Resourcing these great ideas and projects helps to showcase what’s great about our region.”
Grant recipients
- Astera Health, Wadena: $5,000 to expand its volunteer program, including pet therapy certification, volunteer training and activities that encourage community engagement.
- City of Wadena (Imagine Nation): $5,000 to create community murals celebrating Finnish heritage. The project uses Scandinavian-inspired designs, workshops and painting days to bring youth, families and residents together while adding color to public spaces.
- Dreams United, Long Prairie: $5,000 to welcome new Spanish-speaking families in Todd County. Latino community members will visit families, connect them to local resources and help build a sense of belonging.
- Eagle Bend Economic Development Corporation: $2,500 to support development of the Hilltop Senior Complex in Eagle Bend. The project expands senior programs and volunteer opportunities to help reduce rural isolation.
- Menahga Public Schools: $5,000 to host an art-focused mental health open house for adults and families. The event uses creative activities and shared resources to encourage connection and reduce stigma.
- Wadena County Toys for Tots: $2,500 to meet growing demand for holiday support for local children. The funding will help purchase toys and books as requests continue to increase.
- Partners for a Healthy Wadena in partnership with Wadena Youth, Inc.: $5,000 to host community town halls across Central Minnesota to gather local input and help design family-focused community resource centers.
- Partners for a Healthy Wadena in partnership with Wadena Youth, Inc.: $2,500 to create an art therapy and creative learning space for youth in Wadena to support self-expression, confidence and connection.
- Wellness in the Woods: $2,500 to launch a regional wellness podcast network that shares recovery stories, wellness tools and local provider information.
About Sourcewell
Sourcewell empowers public employees through dynamic solutions and services that drive efficiency and impact. As a government organization serving thousands of public agencies across the United States and Canada, Sourcewell understands the day-to-day challenges public employees face. From cooperative contracts and related solutions, to education and community resources, Sourcewell is committed to providing high-quality service while supporting community success. Visit sourcewell-mn.gov to learn more.