Volunteer
Join the community or volunteer locally
Stay connected, learn how coordination works, and find trusted local volunteer opportunities across the TriDistrict.
Start here
Join the community
This is a shared space for neighbors across five South Metro cities to connect, coordinate mutual aid, share rapid response updates, and stay involved locally. This is a place to stay informed, ask questions, and offer help when you can.
West St. Paul, South St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Eagan
Most of our community members live in these five cities, so this group was built by people who believe each of us can make a difference, and who are working to build connections across distance into a steady network of support and care.
What is Signal?
Signal is a free messaging app that uses end-to-end encryption, so only the people in a chat can read what's shared. It also avoids ads and trackers.
Why we use it
We use Signal because that extra privacy helps people feel safer sharing updates and coordinating support, especially when situations are sensitive.
Step 1
Download the Signal app
Available on iPhone, Android, PC, and Mac. Quick setup for the peace of mind.
Download Signal →Step 2
Join the waiting lobby
Tap the invite link below to enter the lobby. An admin will reach out with next steps and help you find the right place to start.
The lobby is read-only and uses admin tools to keep the onboarding process safer, more organized, and easier to manage.
Join the Volunteer Lobby / Waiting ListVolunteer with local nonprofits
Volunteer with trusted local partners
These groups already have volunteer programs in place. They can get you oriented, trained, and helping right away. Reach out to them directly to get started.
Neighbors, Inc.
Food shelf and basic-needs support for northern Dakota County households. Volunteer roles include food shelf support and donation sorting.
Address: 222 Grand Ave W, South St. Paul, MN 55075
Phone: 651-455-5000
The Open Door Pantry
South Metro food pantry based in Eagan. Individual and group volunteer shifts available, including mobile bag packing and pantry support.
Address: 3000 Ames Crossing Rd, Suite 100, Eagan, MN 55121
Phone: 651-686-0787
CAP Agency
Community Action Partnership serving Dakota, Scott, and Carver Counties. Volunteer roles span food distribution and community support programs.
Address: 2496 145th St W, Rosemount, MN 55068
Phone: 651-322-3500
360 Communities
Serves Dakota County residents facing violence, poverty, and instability. Volunteer roles support a range of family and shelter programs. Note: they no longer offer direct financial assistance.
Address: 501 E Highway 13, Suite 112, Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone: 952-985-5300
Dakota Woodlands
Family shelter in Eagan. Volunteers support facility projects, sorting, meals, and events. Group volunteer projects available. Contact them for current needs.
DARTS
Supports older adults and caregivers across Dakota County. Volunteer roles include transportation and connection services. Driver roles may require a background check.
Address: 1645 Marthaler Lane, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Phone: 651-455-1560
These organizations are Twin Cities-based, not Dakota County-specific, but they’re the closest routes for immigration and legal volunteer work, and they match the heart of this community’s needs.
MONARCA
Trains community volunteers to be upstanders and support rapid response documentation. Sign up for their “Be an Upstander” training calendar to get started.
Immigrant Law Center of MN (ILCM)
Free immigration legal services for low-income immigrants and refugees. Both legal and non-legal volunteer roles may be available. Contact for current openings.
Volunteer Lawyers Network (VLN)
Connects attorneys and law students with pro bono civil legal cases across Minnesota, including some immigration work depending on capacity.
Can't give time right now? Fund direct aid.
Every dollar goes directly to groceries, essentials, and support for families in the TriDistrict area. No overhead. Neighbor to neighbor.
Support families, give mutual aid