As communities welcome the first days of summer, Calumet will mark the season with action and purpose on June 17 during United Way of 1000 Lakes’ 2026 Day of Action.

From paintbrushes and power tools to shovels and garden gloves, volunteers will spread across the community tackling hands-on projects designed to strengthen neighborhoods and support residents. What begins as a single day of service often leaves a lasting mark.

Since its local inception in 2013, United Way of 1000 Lakes has served as convener and coordinator — identifying host communities, securing partnerships, mobilizing volunteers, and aligning projects with local priorities. Over the past decade, Day of Action has grown into a trusted annual tradition rooted in collaboration and visible impact across Itasca County.

Day of Action is part of a nationwide movement that invites neighbors, businesses, and organizations to step forward together. The concept is simple: when people show up side by side, meaningful change follows.

Locally, that impact adds up. Since launching in the region, Day of Action has mobilized 1,298 volunteers who have contributed more than 7,553 hours of service — valued at nearly $200,000. Past projects have ranged from brightening playgrounds with freshly painted foursquare courts, to installing sidewalks for safer walkways, to replacing decks boards and installing retaining walls for homeowners — practical efforts that make communities safer, stronger, and more resilient.

In January, the Calumet City Council voted to host the 2026 event, joining a growing list of communities — including Bovey, Cohasset, Coleraine, Deer River, Marble, and Grand Rapids — that have partnered with United Way to bring the day to life.

“Day of Action is about showing up with purpose,” said Kim Brink Smith, Executive Director of United Way of 1000 Lakes. “It’s a chance to combine local priorities with volunteer power and move meaningful projects forward in a single, focused day.”

Planning is already underway in collaboration with Itasca County Habitat for Humanity and Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA). Proposed projects include home preservation efforts, landscaping enhancements, park improvements, tree and flower planting, and trailhead upgrades — visible improvements designed to benefit residents long after the day concludes.

For homeowners, the impact is personal. 

“I had a retaining wall that was falling and the materials to rebuild it but not the tools, skills, or funds to hire someone to do it,” said Melissa Wehland. “On Day of Action, community members volunteered their time and rebuilt the wall for me. This is when I learned what being part of a community was about; I had never felt that before. Now, I give back to the program that helped me and volunteer my time, paying forward the kindness that was shown to me.” 

City leaders say Calumet is ready.

“The City of Calumet is very excited to be chosen for the 2026 Day of Action,” said City Clerk April Serich. “We are committed to help in whatever ways we can to support our residents and strengthen our community.”

Residents interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities or submitting a project request are invited to attend Calumet Public Library’s Coffee Talk Series on March 3 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Day of Action representatives will be available to answer questions and help community members explore ways to get involved.

Volunteers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. Whether giving a few hours or the full day, each person plays a role in building a stronger, more connected community.

Registration is now open at volunteer.uwlakes.org.

To learn more, nominate someone or request help, visit uwlakes.org/day-of-action or call 218-999-7570.

Because when neighbors unite, progress follows — and on June 17, Calumet will lead the way.