Whether you’re a volunteer or are working for a living, it’s important to stay motivated and knowledgeable about the work you’re doing.

For many folks, attending a workshop or conference not only gets you out of the house or office, it can put you in touch with other people who are interested in the same things. Some of those folks will have some great experiences or knowledge to share.… Read the rest

Do you know a great non-profit that deserves some recognition for its amazing work? The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) is currently accepting nominations for its annual Mission Awards! Check out the descriptions and nomination forms HERE.

Now let’s go make it happen for some of our great non-profits in Greater Minnesota!… Read the rest

If your first response to the “What is a non-profit?” question is “a company that doesn’t make any money,” you’re not helping.

If you say it’s an organization that does good in the community, well, we hope so!

A good wood-piler will understand the basics of what a non-profit is so that they can have a bigger impact on its success.… Read the rest

We have a lot to learn from others that are trying to build their communities and their woodpiles. Today’s interview picks another person we’ve identified as giving back to their community in some way and tries to learn from them.

If you know someone you would like to nominate for an interview, please drop me a note with a brief story about why that person should be featured.… Read the rest

We have a lot to learn from others that are trying to build their communities and their woodpiles. Today’s interview picks another person we’ve identified as giving back to their community in some way and tries to learn from them.

My questions are in bold, their responses are in black.

If you know someone you would like to nominate for an interview, please drop me a note with a brief story about why that person should be featured.… Read the rest

It just happened again.

We received a beautiful card from one of our regular charities, inviting us to an open house. On the front and inside cover were gorgeous pictures and a story of a client family that had been forever changed by the agency’s work. Hand signed by three top leaders, the mission statement and an explanation of services were notably listed at the bottom of the card.… Read the rest

The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission will once again be hosting training workshops in each District in late April through early May. Special guest presenters will highlight successes from each District. Find out more HERE!… Read the rest

We have a lot to learn from others that are trying to build their communities and their woodpiles. Today’s interview picks another person we’ve identified as giving back to their community in some way and tries to learn from them.

If you know someone you would like to nominate for an interview, please drop me a note with a brief story about why that person should be featured.… Read the rest

We’ve made it clear that your vocation – your job – is a part of your woodpile that needs to be addressed.  Even though it’s a necessity of life, employment is also an opportunity to make a difference for others.

WHAT WE GET OUT OF WORK

For many people, going to work is a part of the drudgery of life. It’s a pure exchange with the employer – one giving hours and skills (sometimes not very well), the other giving cash and benefits (sometimes not very much).… Read the rest

We have a lot to learn from others that are trying to build their communities and their woodpiles. Today’s interview picks another person we’ve identified as giving back to their community in some way and tries to learn from them.

If you know someone you would like to nominate for an interview, please drop me a note with a brief story about why that person should be featured.… Read the rest