July and August held many opportunities for Minnesota United to get out into the community. To help keep you updated, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite community moments from these past two months.
All-Staff Volunteer – Second Harvest Heartland
On July 11, Minnesota United FC hosted an all-staff volunteer event at Second Harvest Heartland, where volunteers packed rice for 2 hours, enjoying some bonding time with coworkers while doing their part to help fight food insecurity in our state.
Carter Lucero – Make-A-Wish
From July 16-21, MNUFC hosted Carter Lucero, a 9-year-old boy in the Make-A-Wish program, whose wish was to score a goal for the Loons in an MLS game. The trip included visiting tourist attractions in the Twin Cities, training with the first team, and a stunning goal by Carter vs DC United.
Free Farmers Market – Keystone Community Services
On July 19 and August 23, Minnesota United FC, in partnership with Keystone Community Services, hosted Free Farmers Markets at Allianz Field, where volunteers packed and distributed food to individuals in need.
Blood Drive – Red Cross
Every 2 seconds in the United States, someone needs blood. To help with this, on July 25, Minnesota United, in partnership with the American Red Cross, hosted a blood drive at Allianz Field. At the end of the event, there were a total of 43 units donated, which exceeded our number from 2023.
Community Clinic – Blue Cross Blue Shield and Mi Casa
On July 29, MNUFC hosted 75 kids from Mi Casa at Chaska High School for a night of soccer fun, featuring special guests Zarek Valentin, Joseph Rosales, Carlos Harvey, and Miguel Tapias.
Action Day – Greater Twin Cities United Way
On August 1, Minnesota United staff volunteered during Action Day, an event hosted by United Way at Target Center. With the combined efforts of the greater community, staff, and volunteers from other companies, the group was able to help pack 45,000 back-to-school backpacks for kids within the Twin Cities.
River Clean Up – Mississippi Park Connection
On August 8, Minnesota United partnered with Mississippi Park Connection and Ecolab to help clean up the area around Lilydale Regional Park. Staff were also able to kayak on the Mississippi and participate in more clean-up efforts on the water.
Community Clinic – BCBS MN and Indigenous Peoples Task Force
On August 15, MNUFC in partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, hosted 25 kids from the Indigenous Peoples Task Force for an evening of soccer and fun. Kids were treated to a special appearance from goalkeeper Clint Irwin.
Pitch Rebuild – Toro and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation
On August 21, MNUFC, Toro, and Saint Paul Parks & Recreation collaborated to rebuild a soccer pitch at Highwood Hills Elementary School. Various community leaders – including Andy Rodriguez, St. Paul Parks and Rec Director, and MNUFC CEO Shari Ballad – stopped by to voice their support and gratitude.
Backpack Packing – Greater Twin Cities United Way
On August 27, Minnesota United set up a smaller version of Action Day at our Golden Valley office for internal staff. In partnership with the Greater Twin Cities United Way, staff packed 500 backpacks for kids in the community.
