1. Volunteer Your Time

There are dozens of nonprofit organizations in the Greater Grand Forks area that could benefit from an hour or two of your time. Whether you want to provide support to children (Stable Days Youth Ranch), families (Salvation Army), seniors (Grand Forks Senior Center), or animals (Circle of Friends Humane Society), there is sure to be a volunteer opportunity perfect for you.

As someone who holds a great passion for the arts, one of my favorite places to volunteer is the Empire Arts Center. I’ve assisted during events in a variety of capacities, including distributing programs, taking tickets, and selling tickets and concessions. You get to decide what activity best suits you, and afterward, volunteers are always welcome to stay and enjoy the show.

If the above options don’t suit your fancy, take a look at the volunteer page on gfiscooler.com and you’re sure to find your perfect match!

2. Donate Books to a Little Free Library

Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization based in Minnesota. Its mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access to all. There are nearly a dozen Little Free Libraries registered in Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. To find one near you, search the interactive map. The libraries include both adult and children’s books, and you’re invited to leave a book or take a book.

There are two libraries located within a few blocks of my home and I’ve discovered some great stories I may otherwise not have. It’s also a great way to declutter and pass along the gift of adventure and knowledge.

3. Support Our Senior Citizens

The Senior Centers in Grand Forks and East Grand Forks are great places to make a new friend. Provide companionship to a senior by stopping by for a chat, a game of checkers, BINGO, or help put together a puzzle. Or go the extra mile and become a delivery driver for the Meals on Wheels and/or Home Delivered Meals programs, helping to provide warm, nutritious meals to seniors who are homebound, ill, or facing other barriers such as transportation. A friend in need is a friend indeed.

4. Write a ‘Thank You’ Note

As the saying goes, “it takes a village.” We cross paths with many people in our daily lives who make a difference. The barista who makes your perfect cup of coffee, the teacher who provides a great learning environment for your child, the mail carriers and delivery drivers who leave important letters and packages at your doorstep, the coworker who helped complete that big project, the server who brought you your lunch. Take a moment to acknowledge and recognize the individuals who play a role in making life just a little bit easier.

5. Pay it Forward

There are countless ways to pay it forward through random acts of kindness. Among the most popular is the coffee buy. Pick up your morning joe from one of the city’s local coffee shops (Urban Stampede, Archives, Bully Brew) and buy a cup for the person in line behind you. Other ways to pay it forward include paying someone a genuine compliment, tucking $1 bills in random spots at Dollar Tree, offering to rake your neighbor’s yard, and buying lunch for a friend or coworker. The possibilities are endless. Do what inspires you!