Photo: Bluebirds & Blooms
During this month of gratitude, we recognize Edina organizations that actively express appreciation in a great variety of ways.
Edina’s two Rotary clubs are based in service, following Rotary’s commitment to devote skills and resources locally and internationally. Members of the Rotary Club of Edina (edinarotary.org) and the Edina Morningside Rotary Club (emrotary.org) engage in projects and fundraisers that contribute to scholarships, international exchange programs and local nonprofits. “When you support your local Rotary clubs, you help feed, educate and fulfill basic needs in your area and also support things like clean water and disease prevention all over the world,” says Shelly Loberg, who is the president of both the Edina Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Edina.
Laura Hogan and Karen Wooldridge support a beautiful form of recycling—regiving flowers. Bluebirds & Blooms (bluebirdsandblooms.com) repurposes bouquets after large events into arrangements personally delivered to patients with long-term illnesses or in memory care. It accepts flowers, vases, containers and volunteers.
Edina Community Foundation (edinacommunityfoundation.org) is involved in many causes and events from public art to an annual creative writing contest to the Fourth of July parade. Race rubber ducks in Minnehaha Creek or join a local book group.
Edina Give and Go (edinagiveandgo.org) provides small grants that make a big difference. The program gives funds to Edina public school students for academic, athletic and arts activities. “Unlocking financial barriers so that all students can participate makes our community stronger and enriches everyone’s experiences,” says Caroline Pappajohn, the organization’s executive director.
Consider a donation to an Edina charity or nonprofit, and start a holiday tradition of giving thanks to neighbors and community.
Contributed by Laura Westlund, an Edina resident, tour guide at the Weisman Art Museum and art hound for Minnesota Public Radio.
