MPR News with Angela Davis

Volunteering in Minnesota: How to get involved and make a difference

two women posing for a portrait
Niila Herbert(left), executive director of the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement, and Melissa Wilson (right), senior director of engagement at Greater Twin Cities United Way, pose for a portrait in the Kling Public Media Center in St. Paul on Thursday.
Nikhil Kumaran | MPR News

When we think about what makes a strong community, it often comes down to one thing — people showing up for each other. 

Across Minnesota, thousands of volunteers are showing up every day — to stock food shelves, tutor students, plant community gardens, organize donation drives and more.

And the way we serve is changing.

Today, it’s easier than ever to sign up for one-time events, find projects that line up with your skills or passions and even volunteer virtually from your computer.  

MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about why volunteering matters, how it strengthens communities and how you can find opportunities that fit your interests and schedule.

three women smiling in a broadcast studio
MPR News host Angela Davis (right) talks with Melissa Wilson (center), senior director of engagement at Greater Twin Cities United Way, and Niila Herbert (left), executive director of the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement, in an MPR News studio St. Paul on Thursday.
Nikhil Kumaran | MPR News

Guests:

Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

Looking for some places to volunteer? Here are some organizations that were mentioned on the show: