Senior Connection hosts Winter Escapes Sept. 9
Sartell Senior Connection presents Winter Escapes where you will learn of different vacation areas to visit in the United States and abroad while using your computer and other means at 2 p.m. Tuesday Sept. 9 in the Sartell District Office, 212 3rd Ave. N.
Lace up for healthy kids!
Children of all ages and athletic abilities are invited to run, walk or roll whatever distance they can (50 or 100 meters, 1K, 1 mile or 5K) during the fifth annual Sneakers and Wheels event Saturday, Sept. 27 at CentraCare Health Plaza, 1900 CentraCare Circle, St. Cloud. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with a 10 a.m. start time for the first race. The Sneakers and Wheels event is meant to increase opportunities for children to be physically active, regardless of their ability. Entrants may register by Friday, Sept. 12 to receive a discounted rate. All participants will receive a free gift. All advanced-registered participants will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. To download a registration form, visit centracare.com. This event is sponsored by St. Cloud Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation.
The Red River Trails and the Story of ‘Ox Cart Angel’
Join us at the Stearns History Museum at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, for the September Breakfast Club. Author Joel Arnold will share the history of the Red River Oxcart Trails and his book Ox Cart Angel.
Come hear about this interesting, often forgotten part of Minnesota’s history, as well as how it led to Arnold’s Midwest Book Award-winning novel, ‘Ox Cart Angel’. You’ll learn about the versatile Red River carts and why it was called the “North West fiddle.” Find out about the Métis, and what life was like on the trails. Handle an authentic Métis sash and discover its many uses. There might even be a recipe for pemmican to take home.
While searching for a mysterious ancestor, Arnold became fascinated by the Red River trails and the people who traveled them. He teaches writing at student workshops throughout Minnesota and has given presentations about the Ox Cart trails of Minnesota and the Dakotas to several historical societies and other groups interested in history. He also serves as the literary director for the Savage Arts Council.
Founded in 1936, the Stearns History Museum has focused on preserving and interpreting the history of the region for 77 years. The mission of the museum is to engage people in the exploration of the County’s diverse heritage by providing connections to the past, perspectives on the present, and inspiration for the future. The Stearns History Museum is nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.
Adult Writers Group to be held Sept. 8
An adult writers group will meet from 6:30-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8 at the Al Ringsmuth Public Library, 253 5th Ave. N. in Waite Park. Each meeting of the writer’s group features a writing prompt and a writing theme selected to inspire writing between meetings. September’s writing theme is: “If I was on America’s Got Talent, I would….” Newcomers are welcome to join.
Basic Computer, Internet help set Sept. 9
Adults who need help with basic computer and Internet use can receive assistance from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Sept, 9 at the Al Ringsmuth Public Library, 253 5th Ave. N. in Waite Park. An experienced volunteer will be on hand to help with setting up an email account, doing a basic web search or using Word. To receive assistance, register in advance at the library or call 320-253-9359.
United Way Volunteer Opportunities
Foster Grandparent Program
School is starting and the Foster Grandparent Program needs mentors for youth in our community. Currently there are openings in the toddler room at Journey Home Day Care, Oak Hill Elementary, KIDSTOPs and the St. Cloud Children’s Home. Foster Grandparent volunteers might help students with a reading assignment, work with a small group on a craft, or help kids learn spelling words. Adults age 55 and better will receive an hourly tax-free stipend ($2.65) for volunteering 15 hours per week (or more if they wish) helping children with activities, reinforcing learning and more. This is a great opportunity if you have time to spare, love to be with children and could use some extra non-taxable income. Contact Emily, Catholic Charities Foster Grandparent Program, at 320-229-4597.
Service-minded socializers
Opportunity Matters is looking for a few dependable individuals to help with our Multiple Sclerosis group on Tuesdays. Volunteers will assist in setting-up and running the group, including running games, preparing snacks and socializing. Volunteers are needed on Tuesdays from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Sartell office location. Contact Brenda Eggerth, volunteer and communications manager, at 320-240-1900 x 205.
Take part in a child’s education
Help a child read. Help a child with math. Take part in a child’s education and learning by becoming a reader, tutor or mentor to a child at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota. Make a difference in a child’s life in as little as one hour a week. You will set your own schedule with the volunteer coordinator to fit your needs. We only ask volunteers be able to relate well with children in a group environment, participate as an active team member with staff and other volunteers, and abide by volunteer policies. Volunteers must go through an interview and orientation process as well as completing a criminal background check before starting their volunteer experience. Bethany Theisen, Boys and Girls Club volunteer coordinator, at 320-257-5115.
Stocking, light maintenance
Catholic Charities Emergency Services is looking for volunteers to do some serious physical work. Volunteers will be stocking shelves as well as light maintenance from noon-4 p.m. Tuesdays and from 1-5 p.m. Wednesdays. Contact Chad, Catholic Charities Emergency Services, at 320-229-4568.
Kids Fighting Hunger
Kids Fighting Hunger is looking for volunteers to help package nutritionally balanced meals from 3-5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25 at their warehouse location, 1000 S. Benton Drive, Suite 415, Sauk Rapids. This is a great group volunteer activity. Volunteers are asked to make a suggested donation of $10 per child, $15 college student and $20 per adult to help pay for the ingredients and packaging materials. All donations are greatly appreciated. Contact Mary Krippner, volunteer engagement coordinator, at 320-223-7991.
For more information, contact Mary Krippner, United Way volunteer engagement coordinator, at 320-223-7991 or mkrippner@unitedwayhelps.org.