United Way of 1000 Lakes is making it easier than ever to give back to your community—with just a tap. This spring, United Way rolled out a new giving solution called Tap to Give, a state-of-the-art contactless donation system designed to make generosity fast, secure, and convenient. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or running errands, you can now make a difference in seconds by simply tapping your credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch.

These sleek, fixed-amount donation devices are now popping up at partner locations across the region, offering donors the option to give $5, $10, or $20 instantly. No cash. No forms. Just impact.

Where Every Tap Counts

Starting in July, donations collected through Tap to Give will benefit United Way’s Stuff the Bus initiative, which helps local students head back to school equipped with the tools they need to succeed. Each tap directly supports programs that provide backpacks filled with essential supplies to K–12 students across Itasca County and surrounding communities.

“Tap to Give stations provide a secure and convenient new way to give,” said Kim Brink Smith, Executive Director of United Way of 1000 Lakes. “Now, with just a tap, generous donors can donate a set amount—making it easier than ever for individuals and businesses to grow their local impact.”

How It Works

This modular approach offers significant flexibility, allowing businesses and organizations to choose only the features they need for their space or campaign. For example, a retail store might opt for a countertop device near checkout, while an event sponsor could use a floor stand in a high-traffic area. Even wearable options are available for mobile fundraising or volunteer-driven campaigns—making it easy to tailor the experience to any environment.

Each device is simple to use, shows the donation amount up front, and accepts tap-to-pay options like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and most cards. Because it’s fully encrypted and doesn’t need extra equipment, it’s both secure and easy for anyone to use.

Even better? In some cases, donations may be matched by the host partners, doubling the impact of each tap. Already, Brewed Awakenings Coffeehouse and Grand Rapids Dairy Queen have joined as host sites.

Why It Matters

Over 40% of households in our region are struggling to make ends meet—including 13% living in poverty and 27% who are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). Tools like Tip to Give help ensure support reaches families when and where they need it most. Every dollar donated through a simple tap helps local children and families thrive—fueling education, stabilizing finances, and building healthier, more vibrant communities across Itasca County.

Become a Tap to Give Partner

Want to join the movement? Hosting a Tap to Give device an easy way for local businesses and organizations to give back and show their community pride. To learn more or request a device, contact Kim at kimberly@uwlakes.org or call 218-999-7570.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Itasca area—one tap at a time.