Bright Spot

The organization leads initiatives like household goods drives, the Wheels to Work reliable transportation program and a volunteer portal to connect do-gooders with nonprofits in need.

With SNAP benefits impacted, a group of residents are doing what they can to help by having a tailgate pantry event 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in the Paul Bunyan Mall parking lot.

Plans are forming for a dog park in Deer River. Chelsea Pusc is leading efforts to raise funds, including a brunch 9 a.m-1 p.m. Oct. 19, 2025, at the Deer River Vets Club.

Grand Rapids resident Connor Stefan recently challenged himself to a bike ride — that took him over 2,700 miles — to raise awareness and funds for men's mental health.

Allison Barta will share butterfly photos and her enthusiasm at a presentation 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at Watermark Art Center in Bemidji.

The University of Minnesota Extension is offering a series of healthy aging webinars in September, plus they offer other online resources all year long on the topic.

The Bemidji Community Latin Block Party is 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, at the American Indian Resource Center on the BSU campus. It's an inclusive space with free local food, games, dancing and more.

Happy Dancing Turtle is a nonprofit in Pine River dedicated to growing good stewards of the planet. The organization's nature class for 4- and 5-year-olds begins Sept. 8, 2025.

Healthy people ages 18-35 can go to the Dairy Queen in Grand Rapids on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. Cheek swabs will be provided to see if you can be a match to save a life.

The lounge operates in Central Square Mall in Grand Rapids in conjunction with Hero's Heart Animal Rescue. Time slots are available for hanging out with cats — adoption optional.