How to use courage, excitement to make social connections
We look at what research shows about how people can overcome fears and use these strategies to connect with others.
Minnesota brewers tap into shifting tastes
Craft breweries in Minnesota created new products and events they hope appeal to younger customers of drinking age, who tend to drink less beer than members of older generations.
Drawn by Nature: Chickadee, squirrel brains expand for food caches
"In the realm of natural-world wonders, some animals can expand their brains when needed," writes Lisa Meyers McClintick.
Expert answers your recycling questions
Emma Pardini of WLSSD in Duluth answers questions we couldn't get to at Project Optimist's October recycling panel discussion.
Minnesota youth, seniors fight social isolation and loneliness
A young St. Cloud man started a program to connect senior citizens with students. The effort succeeded, but it’s tough to find students across Minnesota willing to organize similar events in their communities.
College students share insights on social connection
Students from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University joined a moderated conversation about social connectedness and loneliness.
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.
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.
St. Cloud woman revitalizes furniture
Ashley Green reupholsters and fixes damaged furniture, bringing a new meaning to the term 'green thumb.'
Rental programs help Minnesota farmers test-drive no-till
Some Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Minnesota rent no-till equipment to farmers, which allows them to plant cover crops. However, maintenance costs and the availability and size of the equipment can be barriers.
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.
Saint John's Pottery forges community
How Richard Bresnahan shares ancient art, intentional stewardship, open hospitality, and builds a community around the hearth.
Community Voices ⎸ See Minnesota's fall colors from above
"The autumn season offers an example of how to change gracefully," writes Erica Dischino.
Community Voices ⎸ Project Optimist receives $100K Press Forward grant
Project Optimist is one of 205 small, local news publications to receive grants from Press Forward, the nationwide movement to strengthen communities by reinvigorating local news.
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.
Artist Kent Estey listens to his heart
"I trust myself, and I listen to what my heart tells me I should paint," he said of his work.