Community Voices ⎸ What Project Optimist readers told us
We break down the results from our 2024 Audience Survey and share how it will inform our work in 2025 and beyond.
Jen Zettel-Vandenhouten
31 posts
Lessons learned from two decades of composting
The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District has run a compost site since 2001. During that time, the district has added 12 community drop-off sites, in addition to taking food waste from businesses.
5 ways Minnesotans can reduce consumption, waste
April Hepokoski, of Esko, offers tips for people looking to reduce the amount of trash they produce.
3 takeaways from Project Optimist's recycling panel
Recycling is real, progress is happening, and give your recyclables a sanitary rinse. Yes, you!
Tour a Minnesota recycling facility
Project Optimist visited the Otter Tail County Recycling Center on Oct. 1 to see how recyclable materials are sorted and to learn more about the process.
Bustling senior centers offer community to older Minnesotans
Senior centers can help older adults combat social isolation and loneliness if they can attract members, offer interesting programs, and overcome transportation or technology barriers.
Project Get Outdoors sparks love for nature
Outdoor programs teach children about nature through field trips and hands-on activities. Community partnerships make them possible.
Community Voices ⎸ Fact-checks catch mistakes — every single time
"It takes time, but I know it's made me a stronger reporter," writes Jen Zettel-Vandenhouten, managing editor of Project Optimist.
How to find common ground, encourage bipartisanship
The nonprofit organization Majority in the Middle aims to highlight the ways Minnesota's state legislators work together.