Seasonal & Holidays
Stillwater Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond
Discover meaningful ways to give back — from volunteering and donating to supporting community programs year-round.
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 Stillwater 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.
FamilyMeans
FamilyMeans is a nonprofit based in Stillwater that helps individuals and families navigate life’s challenges through counseling, financial solutions, caregiving support and youth development programs. Founded in 1963, the organization empowers people of all ages to find stability and growth with the belief that “better is possible.” Community members can get involved by volunteering, attending events or making a donation to support its mission.
Learn more: familymeans.org
Find out what's happening in Stillwaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
St. Croix Valley Foundation
Since 1995, the St. Croix Valley Foundation has connected generosity with impact, helping donors create lasting change across six counties in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. The foundation now manages more than 500 charitable funds, distributing more than $100 million in grants and scholarships. Supporters can give through donations, endowments or planned gifts.
Learn more: scvfoundation.org
Community Thread
Community Thread connects volunteers with opportunities to serve others and strengthen the Stillwater community. Through programs that provide transportation, home help and seasonal volunteer events, the nonprofit supports older adults, low-income families and local organizations. Each year, more than 1,600 volunteers contribute thousands of hours to enrich lives across the St. Croix Valley.
Learn more: communitythreadmn.org
Find out what's happening in Stillwaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Valley Outreach
Valley Outreach is a community-powered nonprofit in Stillwater that provides food, clothing and personalized support to help people move their lives forward. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, the organization distributes millions of meals and thousands of clothing items each year. Volunteers can help sort donations, work at the food shelf or assist families in shopping for essentials at the StyleXChange clothing store.
Learn more: valleyoutreachmn.org
The Connect Center
The Connect Center helps low-income families, homeless youth and individuals in Washington County overcome housing instability and other challenges. Through programs like community meals, youth drop-in services and mentorship opportunities, the nonprofit connects people with impactful resources and support networks. Volunteers can get involved by teaching classes, tutoring or assisting at community events.
Learn more: theconnectcenter.org
Hometown Hero Outdoors
Hometown Hero Outdoors provides healing and connection for veterans, active service members and first responders through outdoor adventures like fishing, hunting and hiking. Those interested in supporting its mission can volunteer, sponsor adventures, donate equipment or help recognize local heroes.
Learn more: hometownherooutdoors.org
The Partnership Plan
Established in 1989, the Partnership Plan supports teachers and students in Stillwater Area Public Schools by funding innovative projects and classroom experiences that inspire curiosity and creativity. The nonprofit has awarded more than $7 million in grants, benefiting over 40,000 students and bringing “wonder” to classrooms through programs in science, arts, mental health and career pathways.
Learn more: partnershipplan.org
Stillwater Public Library
For more than a century, Stillwater Public Library has been a cornerstone of learning and connection in the St. Croix Valley. Support from donors, volunteers and the Stillwater Public Library Foundation helps expand collections, fund educational programs and preserve the library’s historic building for future generations.
Learn more: library.stillwatermn.gov
Give back in whatever way feels right for you — together, we can make an impact in Stillwater.
This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.
