Giving Tuesday in Bloomington: Simple Ways to Make a Difference
Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to support the communities they care about through generosity, whether that’s donating to a nonprofit, volunteering a few hours, or simply lending a helping hand. In Bloomington, there are countless ways to get involved and make a local impact.
From supporting organizations that address food insecurity and youth services to volunteering at community events or contributing to local foundations, Giving Tuesday is a reminder that even small acts of generosity can strengthen the community.
Support the Mall of America Community Foundation
One of Bloomington’s largest community partners is the Mall of America Community Foundation, which invests in four key areas: education, mental health, community wellness, and financial stability. Since its launch, the foundation has expanded the Mall’s long-standing commitment to supporting Minnesota nonprofits through fundraising events, partnerships, and grantmaking.
Throughout the year, Mall of America also partners with dozens of nonprofit organizations and hosts community events that raise awareness and resources for local causes.
Support Bloomington Nonprofits
Many Bloomington-area organizations rely on community support throughout the holiday season. Consider donating food, household essentials, winter clothing, or financial contributions to organizations like the Normandale Community College Campus Cupboard, VEAP, and Oasis for Youth, all of which provide critical services for local residents. The city of Bloomington also maintains a community resource directory with additional organizations seeking donations and volunteers.
For the Normandale Community College Foundation, Giving Tuesday helps ensure students can meet their basic needs while pursuing their education. “Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to ensure that our students have the resources they need to thrive,” says Brooke Fox, annual giving manager for the Foundation. “Nearly half of our students experience food insecurity, creating a significant barrier that can impact their academic success and ability to complete their education.”
One of the Foundation’s key initiatives is supporting the Campus Cupboard, which distributed more than 66,500 pounds of food to students over the past year. Giving Tuesday donations also help provide Cub Foods gift cards during winter break, when students lose access to the on-campus pantry. In 2025, the campaign raised more than $12,000, providing grocery assistance to 194 students.
“Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder that strong communities are built when neighbors support neighbors,” says Becky Patton, VEAP’s digital communications and engagement manager. “Organizations like VEAP thrive through community involvement, and Giving Tuesday inspires people to come together to help ensure that local families have access to healthy food, housing support, and other essential resources.”
Volunteer Your Time
Giving Tuesday isn’t only about financial donations. Volunteering can make an equally meaningful impact, whether that means adopting a local park, ushering performances at the Bloomington Center for the Arts, helping with sustainability projects that keep parks and natural spaces healthy, or serving on a city board or commission. Even a few hours of your time can strengthen the community while connecting you with neighbors who share your passion for giving back.
Another great resource is HandsOn Twin Cities, a longtime organization that helps connect volunteers with nonprofits throughout the Twin Cities. The organization also partners with Mall of America on volunteer expos and hands-on service projects that make it easy to get involved.
Every Act of Generosity Matters
Giving Tuesday isn’t about making one large donation. It’s about participating in whatever way makes sense for you. Volunteer for an afternoon. Support a nonprofit whose mission resonates with you. Attend a fundraiser. Share an organization’s work with your network.
Giving Tuesday serves as a reminder that Bloomington’s greatest strength is its community. When neighbors support neighbors, everyone benefits. “Every gift—whether it’s time, food, or financial support—helps us continue responding to the growing needs of our community,” says Patton. “When many people each do a little, together we create a tremendous impact.”
