Join our friends at Good in the hood and volunteer to help sort shoes! NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! This is a fun, group, or individual activity as you work with their team! You are providing shoes for those who may not otherwise be able to purchase quality footwear....

This week commit to using your bike instead of your car! Whetherit’s a quick trip to your local store, making the journey to work, or just going out for a fun ride each afternoon... you are sure to find good for you and the world you’re in!

Have some old bicycles lying around in the garage? Give them new life and donate your wheels to a local youth program, homeless shelter, or residential program. Your bikes could “speedup” the journey to new life!

Our partners at MnTC have shared an important video of how to administer Narcan (the medicine used to help save a life in an opiate drug overdose). Take a moment to watch, save a life, and help others find freedom from addiction! Learn How to Distribute Narcan in...

Would you know what to do in an emergency? Make it a point to take a CPR class or review your CPR skills online. Stay prepared, and you could save a life!

This week is EMS week! Thank your local emergency medical team with thank you cards, treats, or an email... and let them know what they mean to you!

Ask your child questions about who they notice at school who may need a friend, whether it be a new kid, a boy or girl who gets picked on or someone who just seems lonely. Challenge them to find a way to reach out to this person, whether physically or virtually,...

Challenge your children to choose a few toys or books that they no longer need, or even a toy they really love but could be used by another kid. Take these toys to a hospital, day care center, homeless shelter, or church nursery, so that other kids can enjoy the toys...

It’s teacher appreciation week! Send your child to school with a note or card. Add a special note yourself to let them know how thankful you are for all they do to continue to make sure your child is learning and growing!

Send your child off on the bus with a small token of appreciation for their very hard-working bus driver. This year has been tough and uncertain for all of us, and bus-drivers have had to adapt. Show them you are thankful for all they have done, this year and every...

Find a local organization that is in need of non-perishable food (your city hall may have some ideas). Then put out flyers notifying your neighbors you will be coming by to collect food. On collection day, grab a wagon and start going door to door. It’s a great way...

80% of moves happen between April and September. That means you are bound to have a new neighbor sometime in the next few months. If you see a “SOLD” sign outside of a house, make note and bring your new neighbor a baked good, a gift card to your favorite local...

In honor of Earth Day, coming on Thursday, opt to take an alternative mode of transportation. Walk, bike, or take public transportation to somewhere you need to go instead of taking your car. BONUS: If you opt for public transportation, try to meet someone new and...

This is a super simple way to celebrate our earth, in honor of Earth Day on Thursday. As you leave a room or your house, make sure to shut off all the lights. Making this little extra step a habit can go a long way over time in terms of conservation. We can Let Light...

Know an elderly person in your family, neighborhood or church? Ask them if there’s anything tech-y they’ve been struggling with. Our world has become more and more reliant on technology to stay connected and complete everyday tasks. Taking the time out of your day to...

Invite an elderly neighbor on a walk, get to know their story and find ways you can continue to connect with them through shared hobbies, bringing them meals or just inviting them over to chat. People are craving community now more than ever before.

Have paper, beads, markers, crayons or any other craft supplies that, despite your best intentions, you probably aren’t going to use? Find a local school, homeless shelter or other non-profit that can put these supplies to good use!

It’s that time of year. Many people use spring as a time to purge their closets, homes and garages before summer. If you come across old blankets or towels that you don’t need, bring them to a local animal shelter, where they can use them to create a...

Know a family going through tough times —loss of work, isolation due to vulnerability to COVID-19, illness, loss, or something else —take some time to make a thoughtful Easter basket filled with thingsthey would love, an encouraging note and a...

Go on a walk around your neighborhood and hide Easter eggs along the way or drop them on people’s doorsteps. Fill them with pre-packaged candy or an encouraging message.

Bring a baked good over to your local fire station to say thank you for their hard work in keeping your community safe.

Just ask.

Offer to babysit someone’s kids so they can have a night or day to themselves, without worrying about childcare.

See your neighbor returning from a big Costco or Sam’s Club run?  Offer to help them bring everything inside!

Take inventory of your book collection and see if there are some books you could do without. Take them to your local library, drop them off at a little free library in your neighborhood, or post them for free on Facebook. There’s nothing like a good story to get us...

Next time you return a library book, tuck an encouraging note for the next reader or a homemade bookmark inside. What a fun surprise!

Have a special knack for math or English? Post that you would like to help tutor someone for free on Facebook, a local neighborhood group or app like Nextdoor.

Write a note, make a baked good or leave a present for your child’s teacher or any teacher you know who has worked tirelessly this year to make each child’s experience during coronavirus one where they can continue to learn.

Without being asked, offer to drive someone’s kids to a school event, sporting practice or meeting.  Having this little bit of extra time could make a huge difference in their day.

One way you can make a huge difference in the lives of those around you is to just be present. No distractions. Try going an hour, an evening or even a full day without your cell phone. Just be present and available to those physically around you. You may even find a...

Write down something encouraging and leave it for a stranger. You could leave it on a car in the parking lot or on the table for your server at a restaurant.

Tell someone “thank you” for their friendship.

Include some hot cocoa or tea, a bath bomb, warm socks or blanket, a puzzle or game, snacks and a note letting them know how much you appreciate them.

These times have been incredibly tough for everyone. Take a moment to thank the people who have been working hard through it all in order to ensure we have the things we need.

Don’t ask. Just do it. BONUS: Do it anonymously.

When you are scraping the snow off your own vehicle, take a minute or two to scrape your neighbor, coworker or family members vehicle too. It could really make their day!

Did you know that Amazon will donate .5% of your purchase to a charity of your choice? All you have to do is go to smile.amazon.com and connect it to the charity you’d like to support. For a list of worthy local charities, go to our Partners page.

Next time you are at the check out and the cashier asks if you would like to donate $1 or round up for charity, say YES. Give cheerfully.

Find a location near you where you can serve those who may not have a warm meal to eat.

Whether it’s someone who is sick or a woman who recently gave birth or just a person who’s very busy, a hot home-cooked meal can change someone’s evening. 

Put together a little care package with socks, warm winter accessories like a hat or mittens, non-perishable food and a bottle of water. Keep it in your car, and next time you see a person experiencing homelessness, give them the care package.

Instead of focusing only on improving yourself in 2021, think of ways you can make life better this next year for those around you: friends, family, coworkers and even strangers.

What better way to spread some Christmas cheer than with a special anonymous gift to someone in your neighborhood. Put the gift on their doorstep, ring the doorbell, and make a dash for it – like ding-dong-ditch, but merrier.

Make sure to grab some coins or cash before you head out for groceries and give it to the bell-ringers from Salvation Army.

Find a piece of winter clothing that you didn’t wear last season, and donate it to a charity.

The easiest and possibly most life-changing thing to volunteer to do is donate blood.

Nothing like a free snack to brighten someone’s day! #LetLightWin

Love your local dry cleaner, coffee shop, mom & pop store? Well what are you waiting for? Tell them! Give them an online review that lets them know how valued they are in the community and that they’re doing a great job.

Make a double-batch of something delicious and freezable and give it to an older neighbor who doesn’t cook for him or herself as much anymore.

Think of at least three things you should be thankful for in your life. Bonus: If one of the things is a person, write them a note or shoot them a text to let them know how thankful you are for them.

Encourage your colleagues and supervisors to bring in non-perishable items to be donated to a worthy cause.

When you answer your phone, do in a cheerful voice to start every conversation off right.

Can you answer phones and direct callers? Do you have resume writing skills? Mn Adult & Teen Challenge is looking for volunteers like you! Check out the volunteer opportunities, see where you fit in, and join Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge in serving people...

Collect stuffed animals or toys from family members, friends, and neighbors and donate them to an organization that helps children.

Add yourself to a bone marrow registry and take part in a bone marrow drive.

Write a thank-you note to someone who won’t expect it.

Collect duffle bags, overnight bags, and suitcases from friends and donate them to organizations that send them to children in foster care.

Organize a family meal and appreciate being together.

Teach an elderly person to use a computer to surf the internet or write e-mails. Now more than ever, tech can keep us connected. Let's help others stay connected too!

Sign up for a CPR class. You never know when the opportunity to be a helper will present itself.

If you have special skills to help women and their families facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies – Elevate Life can use your help. Click on the link and volunteer to help Elevate Life offer God’s love, compassionate service & encouragement to moms that need...

Allow a fellow driver to merge into your lane during your commute

Print a ticket of Hope to keep in your car or purse and next time you meet a person who is experiencing homelessness, hand them the ticket knowing you are providing them with a place to stay, food to eat, and help for them to get back on their feet. Print a Ticket

Think of something you do well, and use it to benefit others – for example performing magic tricks at a children’s hospital or playing music at a nursing home.

Set your phone aside and facedown when you are in meetings to show that you’re engaged.

With the statewide mandate, you could help someone you don’t know by having an extra mask handy when they’ve forgotten their own. 

Post inspiring and beautiful photos and/or music on your social feeds and ask your friends to do the same.

Help out the fur baby next door! Sometimes pets don't get as much attention when we're tired or busy. Offer to walk your neighbor's dog - start with one evening a week, and if you love it, add one more!

You'll be the favorite person of all the dogs at the park. But don't forget to make sure it's OK with mom/dad before you offer the treat. This can also give you a chance to check in with the dog's "hooman" and ask how their day is going.

Volunteer with New Life Family Services. Our Clothing Closet allows clients to earn necessary baby and maternity items. Assistants commit to ensuring that our Clothing Closet is fully stocked with the donations received.Learn More

You don’t have to sing like Chris Tomlin or Yolanda Adams to be in the Church Choir. Talk to your Church Choir Director to see how you can lift your voice in songs of praise. Even if your church has not reintroduced choir due to COVID, express interest now, so that...

Many churches are back to in-person services, but most are hurting for volunteers. Roles that were once filled have opened as people have stepped back due to the pandemic. Ask someone at your church where they most need help and fill that role.

1350 babies, 47 states, 11 countries – that’s the impact of Jack’s Baby, a non-profit organization that educates physicians on how to deliver the diagnosis of Down Syndrome to new & expecting parents. Send an email to info@jacksbasket.org to find out how you make...

Whether it’s on social media or through a text or call. Offer your assistance through grocery shopping, gardening or lawn care.

Now that people are beginning to go back to public spaces, this is such an easy way to bring a smile to a stranger’s face.

Whether you pick them yourself or get them from your local flower shop, now is the time to spread joy to friends and family who have been cooped up for months.

Gardening is in full swing! You can help out by weeding your neighbor’s garden or gifting fruit/veggies from your own garden.

TreeHouse Next offers personalized coaching to help teens create an educational or vocational track for their future. Coaches mentor teens each step of the way—with assistance in applying to college or vocational school, money management and financial aid counseling,...

These last few months have been complicated and emotional for everyone. Reach out to the teens in your life to give them a shoulder to cry on, and an ear to listen.

We know you can do it. Ready, set, GO!! Take it a step further. Rather than just no complaints, share a few compliments today or the things you're grateful for.

Dickerman Food Distribution is in need of volunteers who can translate English to Hmong, Spanish, Karen, and/or Somali. The center at 1753 University Avenue (near Fairview) is very low on supplies. In need of fresh produce, food, canned goods, diapers - especially...

Nothing like a free snack to brighten someone’s day! #LetLightWin

One of our favs! It’s so easy and impactful. Pro tip: Look for an expired meter so the person doesn’t get a ticket. Score!

Drop off Monday through Friday at the Greater Friendship Baptist Church at 2600 East 38th Street in Minneapolis. Drop off begins at 11 a.m. through 3 p.m. Donation requests include: laundry soap, dish soap, bar soap, toilet paper, paper towels diapers, formula, water,...

Online learning has been tough for families, students and teachers. Send a shout out on social or just a personal note to all of the teachers who helped our students get through these last few months

Send a quick text, Snap, or call to let even your most introverted friends know that they matter to you.

Serve a hot meal and provide a week's worth of groceries to those facing hunger in our community. Volunteers help unload trucks and set up for the evening's distribution. https://gith.z2systems.com/np/clients/gith/eventList.jsp

Neighborhoods and small businesses need us to come together to show the full strength of our support. There are events sets up to donate diapers, formula, non-perishable food and your time to distribute.https://www.facebook.com/supportthecities/

The events in Minneapolis and across the nation can feel so big, that it can feel difficult knowing where or how to start helping. No matter who you are, or where you are today... we can each stop, take a deep breath, and pray. Together we can... Pray for justice.Pray...

Feeding the hungry is one of our primary objectives. Sadly, however, many families in need are unable to attend a regular food shelf program due to a lack of transportation and/or an inability to find daycare for their children.  Our Foodshelf-In-A-Box offers a...

Make it a point next time you are at the grocery store or out on another essential errand, to smile and sincerely thank those who are working. What a blessing it is to have people out on the front lines every day risking their health and their family’s health to make...

Fill up your actual cart or digital shopping cart with treats and other spring-y items and ship it or bring it to a friend or family who could use a day-brightener. Some May Day Basket Ideas: flowers, chocolates, bubbles for the kids, sidewalk chalk, candy, snacks,...

Do you know a family who is going through an extra hard time right now? Maybe they have experienced loss, are isolating due to a family member contracting COVID, or are essential workers and remaining super busy during this time. Send them some dinner, either through...

During these challenging times, so many are experiencing loss. Loss of jobs, loss of loved ones, loss of a wedding, loss of a graduation celebration, loss of the ability to celebrate a newborn baby, just to name a few. Write a note encouraging whoever you know...

With walks around the neighborhood becoming a daily routine for many families, make your neighborhood’s walks a little brighter with some sidewalk chalk drawings. Write inspirational messages or just add some color to the world. 

Even after the world reopens and stay-at-home orders lift, it seems as though masks are going to be in high demand for some time. Organizations like Mn Adult & Teen Challenge and Union Gospel Mission NEED masks in order to protect their staff, volunteers and...

Find those who are isolated and build a community for them. Discuss a book of the Bible or a fiction book to take everyone’s mind off of their current situation for a moment. 

Next time you are out walking your neighborhood to get out of the house for a minute, bring a trash bag with you. Clean up the sidewalks of any trash or debris you see. Make the world a little bit cleaner place.

It’s springtime, but some currently aren’t able to be out enjoying it. Brighten up their home by sending flowers from a local florist. This way, you are sharing light with someone who is stuck inside AND supporting a local business that may be struggling during these...

There are many ways to do a virtual game night with friends or family who are quarantined. Whether you play via an app or through a video call, a little friendly competition can brighten anyone’s day.  Let light win, no matter the distance. 

With each of us spending time at home, getting the mail can be a highlight of the day. Send a special card to brighten someone’s day. Have kids at home? Let them channel their inner artist and color a picture to send to a loved one! Let light win, no matter the...

While many of us are staying home, there are grocery store clerks, childcare workers, and health care employees that continue to show up! Looking for a way to #LetLightWin and share some encouragement? Create a care package with hard work necessities. You can fill it...

For many families, the shutdown of schools, and many daycares has created a new schedule and needs for parents and kids at home. You can help from afar! Use your favorite video chat app to read a story, or play a game! Find some puzzles, bubbles, or creative toys and...

As we spend more time close to home… you can let your #LightWin in a new way with your neighbors. There are so many ways we can encourage those around us. You can write a fun message for others to see on your walk around the block or create some encouraging messages...

Staying at home can be fun… and at times lonely. Who in your contacts list would love a call? A grandparent or elderly neighbor? A young professional who started a new job away from home? #LetLightWin and take some time to give them a call! No matter the distance… you...

Our elderly population is at the highest risk during this time. Help out an elderly person or anyone with a compromised immune system by buying their groceries, checking in on them and making sure they have what they need. You can even do this from your own home...

Our news feeds are filled with information, updates, cancellations, and fear. We need, more than ever, to spread joy, peace, and light. Post something positive on your social media accounts this week. It could be a good deed you saw, an encouraging quote or an idea of...

You don’t have to sing like Chris Tomlin or Yolanda Adams to be in the Church Choir. Talk to your Church Choir Director to see how you can lift your voice in songs of praise.

Check the volunteer board at your church to see what services you can provide. 

It’s that time of year! What better way to enjoy a fresh new snowfall than experiencing it from behind a snow shovel? You thought I was going to say skiing, right?! 

Such an easy way to bring a smile to a strangers face.

Have a friend or relative that needs help moving or doing a deep clean of their home? The more hands the happier the work. Go make someone happy! 

Who wants to walk a mile when it’s chilly outside? No one! So when you score that parking spot right in front of the store – surprise & delight someone by letting them have that premium spot. The glow from a good deed will keep you warm and toasty on your mad dash...

1350 babies, 47 states, 11 countries – that’s the impact of Jack’s Baby, a non-profit organization that educates physicians on how to deliver the diagnosis of Down Syndrome to new & expecting parents. Send an email to info@jacksbasket.org to find out how you can...

Keep it easy and simple. Peanut butter & jelly and a nice crisp apple is delish!

We know you can do it. Ready, set, GO!!

One of our favs! It’s so easy and impactful. Pro tip: Look for an expired meter so the person doesn’t get a ticket. Score!

Thrivent Financial and Habitat for Humanity created “Faith Builds” to bring local churches together to raise roofs, walls, funds and prayers to build a house in partnership with a family in your community. You don’t have to know how to drive a nail or use a leveler to...

Pick up several umbrellas at your local thrift store and keep them in your car and office to lend to a coworker or friend caught without one on a rainy day.

You know those 2 pair of jeans, that dress you wore only once, those shoes that pinch your pinky toe that you’re saving because you might wear them one day? Face it…you’re never wearing those clothes again, so make your fashion don’t a fashion do for someone in need....

Write them out beforehand so you can quickly slip one under a wiper.

Make a huge tater tot hot dish or mac & cheese so there’s plenty of leftovers for a 2nd meal. I can see your light shining from here!

Want a one of a kind volunteer experience that will impact hundreds of kids? Give Feed My Starving Children just 2 hours of your time and you’ll be amazed at what will be accomplished.

We serve a hot meal and provide a week's worth of groceries to those facing hunger in our community. Volunteers help unload trucks and set up for the evening's distribution. Check out this link and see how easy and fulfilling it is to give the gift of a hot meal.

An evening stroll is great for your health, and adding a little trash pick up on the way is great for the environment. Get the kids involved and snap a pic to share on FB – awesome way to inspire & motivate your friends!

Something simple like “love your glasses” or “where did you get that awesome shirt?” is an easy mood booster. Shine on! #LetLightWin

Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge mentor program is designed to empower mature men and women from the Christian community to join together with MnTC in fostering the spiritual growth and continued sobriety of their clients. Check out the volunteer & mentor...

Give a pint & save a life. Take a pic or it didn’t happen! #LetLightWin

It’s never too early to spread Christmas joy! Check out Operation Christmas Child and fill a shoebox with gifts for a child in need. This is perfect to do with a child in your life – helping them learn the blessing of giving to others....

Make a rule to donate everything you haven’t worn in 3 years. Your closet will be neater and your heart will be full of joy. Your light will shine a little brighter after helping those in need. #LetLightWin

Volunteer to make follow up phone calls, send emails & reminders.

Camp Cherith is an interdenominational Christian camp that introduces campers to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to help them apply Christian principles to daily living. If you can give 1 week of your summer to teach, help kitchen staff, manage the tuck shop –...

Help your elderly neighbor get their yard ready for winter. Your neighbor will be able to relax and enjoy the fall weather vs. dreading the chore. #LetLightWin

We know you can do it. Ready, set, GO!! #LetLightWin

Who doesn’t want a beautiful flower?! Watch a strangers face light up with a smile. #LetLightWin

Too many teens have nothing and no one to count on in their daily lives – but at Treehouse, they experience belonging, love, acceptance & support. Check out how a few hours of your time can help a teen feel capable & worthy.

If I were your neighbor I’d want chocolate chip cookies. OK…I’m not your neighbor and I still want chocolate chip cookies. Take a pic & hit the share button – inspire your friends!

Call a relative or friend just to say hi and tell them you appreciate them.  Words of Kindness

Work with Union Gospel Mission to feed the hungry and shelter the homeless. Let your light shine by volunteering to serve breakfast once a week for a month. #LetLightWin Sign Up To Serve A Meal

Start a conversation with your cashier – show interest in their well being.

Start a conversation with your cashier and thank them for their help. Let us know how it goes!

Give the theater staff a little employee appreciation – and a much needed break!

This is one of our favs! That look of surprise when the customer hears “Your order has been paid for” is priceless.

Next time you’re walking in the street try to catch someone’s attention and give them a smile & a little wave. Instant mood lift right?!

Tag your friends so they can see YOUR SPIRIT!

You don’t have to sing like Chris Tomlin or Yolanda Adams to lift your voice in songs of praise.

Chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven & a listening ear can mean so much to someone that’s going through a tough time.

Christmas is all about giving, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate.

You don’t have to “Adopt A Highway” to help. Just get out there and do it!

Put cat litter and a small shovel in the trunk of your car – you’ll be ready to help a stuck motorist this winter.

Let them in with a wave… it sometimes can be the smallest things that we do that make the biggest difference.

Contact your local food bank and volunteer to help feed the hungry.

Pack an extra lunch to give away.

Find available volunteer times with Feed My Starving Children for you, your friends, family, business, school, church and more! Help turn hunger into hope with your own two hands by packing nutritious meals for hungry children around the world.

Please join the Kirk Cousins Foundation in giving extravagantly by supporting the following organizations: International Justice Mission, Urban Homeworks, Compassionate Heart, Holland Christian Schools & Discovery Church. For more information, e-mail...

Faith Builds is a partnership program between Thrivent Financial and Habitat for Humanity, bringing local churches together to raise roofs, walls, funds & prayers to build a house in partnership with a family in your community. Click on Learn More to register.

The MnTC mentor program is designed to empower mature men and women from the Christian community to join together with MnTC in fostering the spiritual growth and continued sobriety of our clients. MnTC mentors make an immensely positive impact on clients throughout...

Heart for Hunger is a partnership with Union Gospel Mission to help raise money and food for their Thanksgiving Food Distribution.

Look a homeless person in the eye and say hello. Shining your light on them lets them know that you see them and that they matter.

Find a senior care center in your area and shower them with flowers! A great way to brighten the day of elderly residents.

Helping them get their yard ready for winter can take the pressure off, and help them relax so they can enjoy the fall weather.

Make sure your grandma knows she is loved & cherished. A 5–10 minute chat about the “good times” will mean so much to her.

We are in need of volunteer Parenting Coaches who have experience working with children and/or a background in coaching, teaching, care-taking or counseling. Parenting Coaches provide parenting education & model learning opportunities with parents who have children...

Print a Ticket of Hope from Union Gospel Mission to keep in your car or purse and be confident that the next time you meet a person who is homeless face-to-face you will be able to provide the best help that anyone could ever offer.