Two Years Strong in Winona

By Anthony

Hello, lovely humans!

This year, Heart of Winona celebrates two years of building affirming, joyful, and sustainable LGBTQIA+ community in Winona! What began as a vision has grown into consistent programming, partnerships, and spaces where people can gather safely and authentically. None of this happens without you; the volunteers, donors, collaborators, and community members who continue to show up and invest in this work.

This past November, we reached a major milestone of officially receiving our 501(c)(3) nonprofit designation. This status strengthens our ability to fundraise, pursue grants, and build long-term sustainability, which shows that we are building something meant to last in our community.

This year, our programming and fundraising efforts center around one guiding theme: Unapologetically Alive. To be unapologetically alive means living visibly, loving boldly, and standing firm in who we are even when it would be easier to disappear. It means investing in each other, not just in dollars but in care, relationships, and resilience. Every event, gathering, and initiative this year connects back to this vision.

If you believe in a Winona where LGBTQIA+ people don’t just survive but thrive, we invite you to be part of sustaining this work. Whether that means making a donation, becoming a monthly supporter, volunteering your time, or simply spreading the word, your participation keeps this community alive and growing. This is our year to stand out and stand firm.