Bonfire, the Itasca area’s volunteer portal powered by United Way, aims to ignite volunteer action in the region! On Bonfire, anyone looking to get involved can create a profile and find opportunities to volunteer in Itasca County. Here are just a few ways that a person can give back through Bonfire: 

1. Provide Meals for Volunteers 
   Lunch Providers play an important role in Itasca County Habitat for Humanity’s building projects. On build days, Lunch Providers make and serve meals for construction volunteers, providing fuel for the day’s activities. This is a great way for good cooks and civic, church, or corporate groups to get involved! Learn more

2. Help Out at the Hospital 
   There are numerous ways for volunteers to give back at Grand Itasca. From creating blankets and hats for pediatric patients and infants to working at the coffee bar or gift shop, volunteers play an important role in helping the hospital run smoothly and making patients and families feel welcome.  Get involved

3. Collect School Supplies 
   United Way’s annual school supply drive mobilizes community members to help local students get the tools they need to succeed! Team up to collect highly-needed items such as backpacks, headphones, and dry-erase markers for Itasca-area students. Registered drives will receive tools and support from United Way to help spread the word! Get started

4. Research Resources Remotely 
   Looking for a remote volunteer opportunity? 211/First Call for Help utilizes volunteers to research resources for northern Minnesota residents in need. Resourcing volunteers might find and update information on food distributions, employment workshops, and more. Researching for First Call is an effective way to give back on your own schedule. Sign up

Are you ready to give your time and talent to make the Itasca area a better place? Sign up for these roles and more on Bonfire, the Itasca area’s online volunteer portal, at volunteer.uwlakes.org. Bonfire is free to use and serves to facilitate connection between the Itasca area’s volunteer base and local nonprofit and community organizations. 

Community and nonprofit organizations serving the greater Itasca area can post volunteer opportunities and manage volunteers on Bonfire. To get started, visit volunteer.uwlakes.org/nonprofit or call United Way at 218-999-7570.