On any given day, volunteers are making a difference in the Itasca area. From building homes to serving meals to selling tickets at community events, volunteers play a vital role in keeping our community connected and thriving.  

As we settle into the summer months, there are several opportunities for individuals to give back and help meet our community’s needs! Here are a few examples of the ways those who live, work, and play in the Itasca area can give back this month:  

1. Help Out at the Judy Garland Festival
This year’s Judy Garland Festival takes place June 8th – 11th, and the Children’s Discovery Museum needs volunteers to help make the event a success! Volunteers will set up for the event, host activities, and complete take-down duties. Sign up now to spend a weekend commemorating one of Grand Rapids’ famous figures! Sign up

2. Lead Long-term Change
United Way’s Community Impact Committee strives to build lasting change in the Itasca area. Committee members learn about the most pressing issues facing our communities and guide United Way’s strategies and investments to make the greatest possible impact. Meeting approximately once a month, the Community Impact Committee is a great place to stretch your leadership skills and work alongside those who care about making change. Join

3. Welcome Guests at Grace House
Volunteers are essential to Grace House, Itasca County’s only shelter for unhoused families and individuals. Currently, the organization is looking for volunteers to serve during morning and overnight shifts. Volunteers connect with guests, serve meals, and make sure that Grace House remains a safe and welcoming environment. Learn more

4. Take Action in Bovey
United Way’s Day of Action, the organization’s largest volunteer initiative, takes place on June 21st! This year’s projects target downtown Bovey, with community revitalization and cleanup projects. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to lend a hand planting flowers, painting, and more on the longest day of the year! Register

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.