Arising out of Minnesota United Acts of Kindness Week, a statewide initiative to spread kindness and caring throughout Minnesota communities, United Way of 1000 Lakes’ Acts of Kindness Grants program supports small-scale projects up to $500 that aim to bring compassion, generosity, and love to the greater Itasca area.

Acts of Kindness Grant applications are accepted year-round, on a rolling basis. Local organizations – including schools, civic and neighborhood associations, environmental groups, and senior centers – as well as individuals, may apply for funding. Grant applicants do not need to have nonprofit status, though nonprofit groups and organizations are welcome to apply.

1. Brainstorm ideas: How would you like to spread kindness in your community?
2. Pitch your idea: Fill out and submit a short application designed to be easy to complete – but children and youth may need some help from an adult.
3. Watch your inbox: If accepted, you will receive a gift card with funds to support your project, as well as a toolkit with kindness cards and other materials. You can use these funds to purchase materials for care packages, gas for transportation, etc. – any project-related expenses.
4. Complete your project: Make sure to take pictures and videos and share them on social media with #ActWithKindness.
5. Report back: Fill out a short post-project report telling us how your project went and share any pictures or videos you have.