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.
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.
On the front line with a Minnesota wildland firefighter
Nathan Myers gives an inside look at what it's like to be a wildland firefighter in northern Minnesota and across the U.S.
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.
Drawn by Nature: Seeds are mini marvels of design
Hand-collect seeds for affordable, biodiverse gardening, writes Lisa Meyers McClintick.
Poems that bring nature to life
Check out two pieces from 'You Are Here: Poetry in the Natural World.'