Eagan Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond

Giving Tuesday is all about generosity — and some of the most meaningful giving happens right here at home. Celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from finding deals to doing good. But there’s no reason to wait — or stop once the day has passed.

This year, Patch and T-Mobile are spotlighting organizations in the Eagan area that are making a difference and helping others in need. These local groups are doing important work, and there are plenty of ways to support them — from donating and volunteering to spreading the word. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a great place to start, so be sure to reach out to each organization directly to learn how you can help.

City of Eagan

The City of Eagan offers various volunteer opportunities that connect residents to meaningful community service, from helping with local parks and sustainability projects to assisting with public events or city commissions. Volunteers play a hands-on role in enhancing city programs, improving green spaces and promoting safety and engagement across neighborhoods. There’s no shortage of ways to lend your time and talents, from adopting a storm drain to joining a city board or helping with seasonal events throughout the year.
Learn more: cityofeagan.com/volunteer

The Drawer

Based in nearby Burnsville, The Drawer is a volunteer-run nonprofit that collects and distributes new socks and underwear to individuals and families in need. By partnering with local organizations, they help ensure everyone in the community has access to these basic essentials with dignity. You can help by donating supplies or money, hosting a collection drive or volunteering to sort and distribute items.
Learn more: thedrawer.org

Eagan Community Foundation

The Eagan Community Foundation strengthens the community by funding local initiatives and supporting educational opportunities. Through its scholarship and grant programs, the foundation invests in Eagan’s students and nonprofits to improve quality of life for all residents. You can contribute by donating, sponsoring an event or applying to serve as a volunteer or committee member.
Learn more: eaganfoundation.org

Eagan Theatre Company

Eagan Theatre Company celebrates creativity and connection through local theatrical productions that engage audiences and artists alike. The nonprofit provides both performance and educational opportunities that enrich the cultural life of the Eagan community. There are several ways to get involved, from donating to joining the production crew to volunteering behind the scenes.
Learn more: etc-mn.com

The Open Door

The Open Door provides fresh and healthy food to thousands of Dakota County residents each month through its Eagan food pantry, mobile programs and community gardens. Their mission is to make nutritious food accessible while empowering families to achieve long-term stability. Monetary and food donations are always welcome, as are volunteers to keep the organization’s pantry and operations running.
Learn more: theopendoorpantry.org

People Incorporated

People Incorporated is Minnesota’s largest community-based mental health nonprofit, serving individuals and families through crisis stabilization, outpatient clinics, housing programs and youth services. The Eagan-based organization provides compassionate, person-centered care that helps Minnesotans live healthier, more stable lives. To support their mission, you can volunteer for group service projects, organize donation drives or contribute financially to their community programs.
Learn more: peopleincorporated.org

Pet Haven of Minnesota

Pet Haven of Minnesota is the state’s first foster-based rescue organization, dedicated to improving the lives of cats and dogs through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption. Located in Minneapolis, the nonprofit operates entirely through volunteers who care for animals, manage adoptions and support veterinary programs. You can help by fostering a pet, assisting at events or joining their volunteer network to make a difference for animals in need.
Learn more: pethavenmn.org/volunteer

Reaching Up

Reaching Up provides after-school academic enrichment programs for elementary, middle and high school students in financial need, primarily those referred by schools in District 196. The organization operates entirely on donations and grants, relying on volunteers who serve as tutors, mentors and van drivers. You can get involved by volunteering your time or contributing financially to help local students reach their full potential.
Learn more: reachingupmn.org

Give back in whatever way feels right for you — together, we can make an impact in Eagan.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.