The Head of the Lakes United Way held their Day of Caring volunteer event. More than 250 volunteers lending a hand to support non profits throughout the Northland.

There’s actually over 7,000 non profits in the state of Minnesota alone. Although the hard work from volunteers is what’s needed most for communities in the Northland. Volunteers with Head of the Lakes United Way were helping people with disabilities, senior citizens, and even veterans.

Sara Niemi the Head of the Lakes United Way President, says she’s grateful for so many people helping out on their Day of Caring.

“We have 15 projects happening today, there’s also 17 supply drives also happening throughout our communities. We have some people in Duluth right now. We’re sorting clothes at the Damiano Center,” Niemi said. “Then we have some people going up the North Shore today to help with Bingo for Seniors, we also have some people in Superior today doing some Christmas baking and decorating at Harbor House. So we’re kind of all over the place.”

Another non profit Head of the Lakes United Way is helping out is Connectability. Zoey Leege volunteered last year for the Day of Caring event. She says Connectability, provides resources to people with disabilities and senior citizens with mobility issues. Volunteers who helped out at Connectability were cleaning and repairing equipment like wheelchairs, walkers for people in the community.

“Our Winter Day of Caring traditionally focuses on more indoor projects and some holiday themed projects as well. And what Day of Caring is a chance for the community to give back through volunteering. In 2024, their donated equipment program provided over $343,000 worth of equipment to people and families with the communities they serve.”

Connectability’s donated equipment program provides wheelchairs, rollers and walkers to anyone for no charge. Head of the Lakes United Way is having their next Day of Caring in June. Although volunteering and donations are essential to helping non profits continue providing their services to people communities all-year round.