Kindness Grants

United Way of 1000 Lakes' Kindness Grants program, grown out of Minnesota United Acts of Kindness Week, aims to promote kindness by funding small-scale, community-level projects.

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About Acts of Kindness Grants

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.

Applying for a Grant: Step-by-Step

  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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of projects will be accepted?
We’ll accept a variety of different projects – and we encourage you to be creative! Projects that include the following will be given priority: 

  • Impacting under-served and/or low-income communities
  • Aim to increase equity, inclusion, and understanding
  • Projects that align with United Way’s focus areas

How old do I have to be to apply?
Changemakers of any age are welcome to apply for an Acts of Kindness micro-grant! However, applicants under the age of 18 will be required to provide contact information for a parent, guardian, teacher, etc. who will help with managing funds and completing the project.

Still have questions?
Call United Way at 218-999-7570 or email info@uwlakes.org.

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