Giving Back In Lakeville: Local Causes To Support This Season

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.

We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the Lakeville area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.

Dakota Woodlands

Dakota Woodlands, originally established as Mary’s Shelter in 1981, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting homeless families. Located just 20 minutes from Lakeville in Eagan, MN, the organization provides emergency shelter, housing assistance and various supportive services to help families regain stability and independence.
Learn more: dakotawoodlands.org

Lakeville Public Safety Foundation

The Lakeville Public Safety Foundation (LPSF) is a nonprofit organization focused on improving public safety by supporting the Lakeville Police and Fire Departments. Established in 2014, LPSF provides funding through community donations for safety programs, events and necessary operational tools. The foundation has awarded over 200 grants to date, helping to improve the community's safety and well-being.
Learn more: lpsfmn.org

Lakeville Yellow Ribbon

Lakeville Yellow Ribbon supports local military members and veterans at every stage of their lives by providing access to essential resources, fostering partnerships and raising awareness of veteran issues within the community. Through its camaraderie and educational opportunities, Lakeville Yellow Ribbon strengthens the support network for veterans and their families.
Learn more: lakevillemn.gov/315/yellow-ribbon

AVIVO

In nearby Minneapolis, about 30 minutes from Lakeville, Avivo is a nonprofit focused on guiding individuals and families toward recovery, stability and sustainable employment. It offers various family and employment services aimed at fostering recovery, housing stability and economic growth. With initiatives such as arts programming and harm-reduction strategies for opioid response, Avivo assists nearly 10,000 people each year, improving health and well-being in the community.
Learn more: avivomn.org

Cultivate Training

Cultivate Training empowers community leaders and their supporters to initiate social change and address issues such as poverty and injustice. Through its online courses, personalized coaching and live workshops, the organization ensures that its resources are accessible to a global audience, breaking down barriers and fostering equity.
Learn more: cultivatetraining.org

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