We’re also gearing up for one of our biggest fundraising events of the year: the 15th Annual Taste of Mower County, taking place on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Austin.  As of July 31, we’re excited to announce that The Downtown Grill has signed on as a tasting partner—but we’re still looking for more tasting partners to join us for this delicious and impactful evening.

We also want to thank the amazing businesses who’ve stepped up to sponsor the event so far:

• Event Sponsor: DoubleTree by Hilton
• Platinum Sponsor: Hormel Foods
• Gold Sponsor: Quality Pork Processors
• Silver Sponsor: Medgaarden’s Southwest Sales
• Bronze Sponsors: Sterling Pharmacy and King Maintenance

​If you or your business would like to get involved as a sponsor or tasting partner, visit: www.lifemowercounty.org/tomc.

Let’s make this year’s Taste of Mower County the most memorable yet—thank you for your continued support!

As August marks the final month of LIFE Mower County’s 2025 Summer Appeal, we want to thank everyone who has supported our mission so far—and remind our community that we still need your help to reach our goal.  Summer is a time for growth, connection, and discovery. At LIFE Mower County, we strive to make these opportunities accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities. Our educational, social, and recreational programs are designed to create a more inclusive community—one where everyone can thrive, connect, and experience the joy of belonging.

For many individuals with diverse abilities, finding meaningful and accessible summer opportunities can be difficult. That’s why our summer programs are so important. They provide a safe, welcoming space for participants to try new experiences, build skills, and create lasting friendships.  But our work doesn’t stop when summer ends. We offer year-round programming—from enrichment activities and educational workshops to social events and community outings—ensuring continued growth and inclusion throughout every season.

This work is only possible because of generous supporters like you.  Whether you choose to make a one-time gift or become a monthly donor, your support directly benefits local individuals with disabilities and their families—helping them access life-changing opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Let’s finish the summer strong. Together, we can make this season—and every season—one of joy, connection, and limitless potential.

Donate today at www.lifemowercounty.org/summerappeal
Or mail/drop off your donation to:
LIFE Mower County
401 2nd Ave NE
Austin, MN 55912
(Please write “Summer Appeal” on the memo line.)

​Your donation truly makes a difference—thank you for being part of our mission.

Caring for someone with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) is a journey filled with love, challenges, and questions. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, sibling, or caregiver, you deserve support, understanding, and the chance to connect with others who truly “get it.”

Join us at LIFE Mower County on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM for a special edition of our Parent and Caregiver Connection. This relaxed and welcoming gathering is a safe space to share stories, ask questions, and build connections with others who walk a similar path. You'll leave feeling heard, supported, and—most importantly—not alone.

​We’re excited to welcome a guest presentation by NAMI Southeast Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Together, we’ll explore:

• Coping strategies for daily challenges
• Mental health resources available in our area
• Self-care practices that caregivers often overlook—but desperately need

This event is free for both members and non-members, and it's open to caregivers and family members of all ages and life stages.

📍 Location: LIFE Mower County
💵 Fee: FREE for all
📅 Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Please pre-register to help us plan for seating and materials. Contact Jamey at 507-473-4832 or [email protected].

Come as you are. Leave with support, resources, and a renewed sense of connection.