Thief River Falls, MN – Advance Thief River is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant of $30,575 by the Minnesota Humanities Center. This funding will support Advance Thief River’s ongoing efforts to foster welcoming communities through its Welcoming Table events.
This welcoming work was initiated in July of 2024 with a $45,000 grant from the Northwest Minnesota Foundation. This new phase of the welcoming work is set to commence on February 1 and will culminate with the Longest Table event on May 6. This special event will celebrate the rich multi-cultural fabric of the community over a shared dinner and a program that includes video storytelling, highlighting the diverse cultures within the community. Other welcoming events are scheduled in March and April, leading up to the May event.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Minnesota Humanities Center for their support,” said Michelle Landsverk, Executive Director of Advance Thief River. “This grant will enable us to bring people together, share stories, and build a stronger, more inclusive community.”
The Welcoming Table events are designed to create spaces where community members can come together, share meals, and engage in meaningful conversations. These events aim to break down barriers, build relationships, and promote understanding among the diverse populations of Thief River Falls.
The significance of this work cannot be overstated. Over the past 20 years, Thief River Falls has seen only modest population growth. Despite local employers recruiting hundreds of new employees annually, the net population growth indicates that only a few are retained. By focusing on creating a more welcoming community, Advance Thief River aims to retain more newcomers and enrich the community.
The Longest Table event on May 6 will be the culmination of these efforts, bringing community members together for a unique dining experience. The event will feature a long, continuous table set up in a central location, symbolizing unity and connection. Attendees will enjoy a diverse array of dishes representing the different cultures within the community, while also participating in a program that includes video storytelling and other cultural elements.
Advance Thief River is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents. This grant from the Minnesota Humanities Center will help to further these efforts, ensuring that everyone in the community feels valued and included.
For more information about the Welcoming Table events and the Longest Table celebration, visit advancethiefriver.com or contact Brittany Rolf, Advance Thief River’s Welcoming Communities Project Coordinator at brolf@advancethiefriver.com.
This work is funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Welcome Events
Thief River Falls is a vibrant and welcoming community where newcomers are greeted with open arms. With a rich heritage and a strong sense of togetherness, we take pride in creating opportunities for everyone to feel at home. Our welcoming events are designed to help newcomers connect with one another and build meaningful relationships with long-term residents. These gatherings are perfect for making friends, deepening connections, and discovering all that our community has to offer. Whether you’re looking to learn more about our rich traditions, engage with local culture, or simply meet friendly faces, we’re excited to welcome you!
