Riverway Learning Community (RLC) is a public charter school district whose mission is to nurture the growth of the mind, body, and spirit of its students, both as individuals and as members of the larger community. In 2025, RLC received a $5,450 community grant from the Winona Community Foundation to host a free, public Earth Day event open to all. Having taken the event over from the local co-op, this was RLC’s first year hosting the celebration.
Student participates in the Trashion Fashion Show.
On April 7th, Winonans enjoyed a day of free music and environment-focused educational activities. Kite flying, environmental stories, canoeing, hammocking, tree planting, giant bubbles, natural playscape activities, and more were provided by partnering organizations.
RLC’s students got involved, as well. Jamie Harper, local artist and Riverway staff, worked with students to collect recycled materials for a Procession of the Species Parade. Students created butterflies, fish, squids, mammal masks, earth hero shields and capes, and more. Megan Larkin, professional seamstress and Riverway parent, worked with students for 6 weeks to produce fashion items out of trash. A total of 20 pieces walked down the red (“green”) carpet at the event.
Overall, RLC hoped to educate attendees about the threats to our planet and provide opportunities for people to commit to eco-friendly behaviors. “The idea is that if you get to know the Earth and enjoy it, you are more likely to take care of it,” shared Lydia Boysen, Media Specialist at RLC. She also added, “This event was a joy to create and we are so thankful for the funding to get it started! We received good feedback and are hopeful for its future.”
To learn more about Riverway Learning Community, visit riverwaylearningcommunity.org.
An important part of the Winona Community Foundation’s mission is realized though awarding community grants to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Funding for this program comes from generous people, like you, who invest in the community and the Foundation. Whether through direct donations, establishing endowments, or holding charitable funds at the Foundation, these diverse sources of funding are instrumental in supporting the community grant program. As a result, local nonprofits in the Winona area greatly benefit from this program, which has become an essential asset in meeting the needs of the community.
