Non Profits

Bemidji State University Alumni and Foundation launched the "Replant our Roots" campaign after 200 trees were toppled in the June 2025 windstorm.

The nonprofit has been using a foster model, but those behind the group saw the need for something more, and the city of Cohasset donated land in its industrial park.

The expansion in Crow Wing County will help an estimated 1,100 households experiencing food insecurity per month by June 2026, the organization reported.

In the past, The Bridge on 7th closed in the summer months. The Brainerd City Council approved a one-year permit for year-round operations April 6, 2026.

Ruby's Pantry, a faith-based nonprofit coordinating monthly pop-up food events with local churches, including 11 in Northern Minnesota, closed its operations as of March 31, 2026.

The Bridge on 7th gained the unanimous recommendation of the Planning Commission for its permit. On April 6, 2026, that permit will go before the Brainerd City Council.

The soft launch of the Minwaadizi Project's new space, which aims to be an "un-boarding school" community center, included a round dance and potluck.

Lead for Inclusion in Bemidji will host a book club event for "When Stars Are Scattered" at 4:30 p.m. March 4, 2026, at the Northwest Minnesota Foundation.

The Volunteer of the Year will be honored during United Way’s Community Celebration on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids.

KAXE covered natural disasters, federal funding chaos, Eichorn's arrest and resignation, mining permits and wild rice, library budget cuts, sheriffs teaming with ICE and more.