Jimmy  Darts

SB Mowing

Pattie Gonia

Little Miss Flint

Kalina Silverman / @makebigtalk on Instagram

Samuel Weidenhofer

Patriotic Kenny Foundation

Ben Saunders - Flawless Cleaning

The Dogist

Peter Bond

Amy Jandrisevits

Ask Uncle Jack

That Good News Girl

Tess Bohne

FowlMouthFarmer

Latonja and Taylor Richardson

Officer Richard Craig

Flavor Flav

John Wolfe

Khloe

<div>Days after celebrating their wedding, my niece's husband, Nelson Contreras-Gelves, was taken by ICE over the weekend. And we need your help.
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<div>Nelson is a Venezuelan asylum seeker with no criminal record and he was detained by ICE during his routine immigration appointment. After attending a regularly scheduled appointment in Philadelphia, he was told to return on Saturday because "the kiosk was broken." Although the office is not typically open on Saturdays, he followed the instructions he was given. When he returned, he was taken into ICE custody.
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<div>Nelson was in the National Guard in Venezuela. He refused orders to harm civilian protesters and was threatened with imprisonment and death. This caused him to seek asylum in the U.S. He surrendered himself at the US border to seek protection under U.S. asylum laws. He has complied with all instructions provided by immigration authorities. He has been in asylum proceedings and appeared voluntarily for his scheduled appointments.
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<div>Nelson has been an active member of southern Chester County, Pennsylvania since his arrival. After a year of working overnight at a mushroom farm in Kennett Square, he started volunteering nearly every day he could at the Mighty Writers food pantry in Toughkenamon. This is a man who supports his community and family.
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<div>My niece Ariel is now facing an overwhelming legal and financial crisis. She is working with a legal team that is moving quickly to protect Nelson's rights, including filing an emergency habeas corpus petition while he remains in Pennsylvania. However, there are many costs including travel, communication expenses while Nelson is detained, and the loss of the household's primary income.
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<div>This fundraiser will help cover:
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<li>Immigration legal expenses and court costs
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<li>Communication and commissary funds so Nelson can stay in contact with his family and legal team
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<li>Household expenses while Nelson is unable to work
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<li>Travel and other unexpected costs related to his detention
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<div>Every donation, no matter the amount, will help Ariel navigate this difficult and uncertain time. If you are unable to contribute financially, please consider sharing this fundraiser and contacting your elected representatives to express concern about the detention of asylum seekers and other immigrants during routine immigration appointments.
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<div>Thank you for standing with Ariel and Nelson! Your generosity and advocacy mean everything as they work toward bringing Nelson home.
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Help Nelson and Ariel Through ICE Detention Crisis

<div>Whitney is one of my good friends, and her family is going through an incredibly difficult time. On their way to help a friend, Whitney’s loved ones were pulled over by four vehicles and detained by ICE. Her father tried to help, but he was prevented. This frightening and unexpected event has deeply impacted both families.


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<div>The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward legal fees for the families. Navigating the legal system is expensive and overwhelming, and your support will help them fight for their rights and reunite with their loved ones. Whitney will have to miss work to get her loved ones the help they need, and she is also facing extra hotel costs so they can stay nearby and support her loved ones. Every dollar will make a difference in ensuring they have the resources they need during this challenging time.


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<div>Everyone who knows Norman and his brother knows what giving and amazing people they are. They are always helping others and trying to make those around them happy; they are so caring and warm. This is very hard for both families involved, and they ask for all the support in this very tough emotional time. Your generosity and kindness will mean the world to Whitney and both families as they face this crisis together.


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Help Whitney’s Family With Legal Fees

<div>Welcome to MinneHONK!, a festival of activist street bands from Minneapolis and across the country. The event features free and open-to-the-public performances on Friday, May 1st at Arbeiter Brewing; Saturday, May 2nd at George Floyd Square; and Sunday, May 3rd at the Powderhorn Park Mayday parade and festival. MinneHONK! is a free event, planned and executed entirely by volunteers. 
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<div> We're raising money to support bands coming from out of town, pay for permits, equipment, food, and secure funds for next year's event. Your support will help more bands participate, improve the festival experience, and keep MinneHONK! free and accessible for everyone. 
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<div> Working within a framework of a plurality of festivals occurring simultaneously, a core goal of MinneHONK! is a strengthening of the community and cultural fabric at the grassroots level, encouraging people to get out and share music, conversations, and time in community. Please consider supporting this festival and helping us build a stronger, more connected Minneapolis.
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Support MinneHONK! Festival

<div>Since 2003, Plaza Mexico has been more than just a marketplace; it has been a<strong> symbol of the Latino-American dream in Minneapolis. Our group of 45 small businesses has worked tirelessly to support our families and strengthen the local economy. </strong>We want to ensure it remains a place for traditional food, essential services, and cultural pride for the next 20 years.
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<div>We are asking our community, our neighbors, and our supporters to help us keep our doors open. <strong>100% of the funds raised will go directly to the tenants of Plaza Mexico to cover rent costs.</strong>
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<div>Recent political shifts and community concerns over the past few months (since December) have caused a catastrophic 90% to 100% drop in sales.
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<div>Because our market serves the Latino community and other minority groups, the current climate has left our hallways empty and our local entrepreneurs unable to cover their monthly rent.
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<div><strong>Please donate and share this page to help 45 families keep their American dreams alive. </strong>
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<div>Desde 2003, Plaza México ha sido más que un mercado; ha sido un hogar para más de 45 pequeños negocios y un espacio de encuentro para nuestra comunidad en Minneapolis. Aquí, muchas familias han trabajado con esfuerzo y esperanza para salir adelante y aportar a la economía local.
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<div>En los últimos meses, desde diciembre, los cambios políticos y la preocupación en la comunidad han provocado una fuerte caída en las ventas —en algunos casos de hasta el 90%—, dejando a muchos de nuestros emprendedores con dificultades para cubrir su renta y más.
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<div>Con humildad, pedimos el apoyo de nuestra comunidad. El 100% de lo recaudado se destinará directamente a los inquilinos para ayudarles a mantenerse a flote.
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<div>Si pueden, les agradecemos de corazón que donen y compartan este mensaje. Su apoyo significa mucho para las más de 45 familias que desean seguir trabajando y sirviendo a nuestra comunidad.
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Emergency Rent Relief for Plaza Mexico Businesses

<div>We Found a Safer, Bigger Space — Help Owl’s Eye Grow Into a True Creative Collective
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<div>Hi, I’m Michelle — the artist and owner behind Owl’s Eye Art Collective in Lowertown Saint Paul. Sorry this is long but its been a journey to get here.
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<div>Owl’s Eye didn’t just happen overnight. It’s the result of a lifetime of not giving up on creativity and community, even when the path forward wasn’t clear.
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<div>From an early age, art was my way of understanding the world. Growing up with dyslexia, ADHD, and auditory processing challenges, traditional learning was difficult for me. But art became my language — the place where I could express myself when words didn’t come easily. I held onto that.
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<div>I was once told I might not even graduate high school, but I kept going. I was accepted as one of the first post-secondary students at the College of Visual Arts during my senior year, and later went on to study there in Saint Paul, where I deepened my love for printmaking and for this city.
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<div>What made CVA so special wasn’t just the education — it was the community. It was a place where artists supported each other, grew together, and truly believed in one another. CVA used to be on Cathedral Hill and closed in 2012, but it was deeply connected to the strong Saint Paul and Lowertown art community. We even had our thesis gallery shows at A to Z Gallery, now The Burl, right here in Lowertown. That helped spark my love for this neighborhood and my dream of being an artist here.
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<div>Everywhere I go, I carry that with me. Community has always come first.
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<div>After college, like many artists, I struggled to figure out how to make a living doing what I loved. I worked in catering and events, where I discovered another passion — creating experiences that brought people together. That eventually led me to Nerdery, where I was hired as a facilities cleaner. Through persistence, hard work, and never giving up, I spent 10 years building and running an entire events and catering department.
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<div>I wasn’t just organizing events — I was creating moments where people felt connected and part of something. I’ve done countless fundraiser events and helped raise thousands of dollars over the years. Community, giving, and supporting others is where I feel whole.
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<div>Then everything changed in 2020.
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<div>When the pandemic hit, my role disappeared overnight. At the same time, I was navigating major personal changes and uncertainty about the future. Instead of giving up, I pivoted. I taught myself UX, became the first UX intern at Nerdery, and moved into website design, combining creativity with technology while still helping with online events and activities.
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<div>But I never let go of art. I saved up and bought a press six years after college, and I’ve continued doing art fairs and art projects ever since.
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<div>In 2021, I signed a lease for a small live/work storefront in the Rossmor Building in Lowertown. It felt like everything I had been working toward was finally happening. Owls have always shown me the way, and that was when Owl’s Eye really started to take shape. My twin sister made the original logo for Owl’s Eye.
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<div>But a week before I was supposed to move in, I experienced a mental health crisis and had to be hospitalized. At the time, we were still deep in COVID lockdown, and everything felt overwhelming and uncertain. I had to let the lease go. I had tried to take care of too many people and forgot about myself.
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<div>I was completely crushed. It felt like I had finally reached something I had been working so hard for — and then lost it before it even began.
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<div>But looking back now, I know I needed that time. My health wasn’t where it needed to be, and I had to step back and rebuild myself before I could build anything else.
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<div>That moment didn’t end the dream. It just delayed it.
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<div>And when the opportunity came again three years later, I was ready. I was going through a breakup and needed a place, but most of what I owned was my art supplies and a bed. I found a storefront with living space behind it — something incredibly rare, especially if you make too much to qualify for low-income artist housing. I signed the lease, and Owl’s Eye Art Collective was alive again.
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<div>I signed a lease on a small live/work first-floor storefront in Lowertown. Five days after getting the keys, I found out they were ripping up the sidewalk, removing the short-term parking in front, and putting in a bus stop — not just any stop, but a major Gold Line bus stop. I had no idea then how much trouble that would bring.
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<div>I built Owl’s Eye from the ground up — funding it myself through my UX/UI work, running classes, hosting events, and slowly building a community.
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<div>It wasn’t easy.
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<div>Shortly after getting the space up and running, I was laid off from my UX role — not because of my performance or work ethic, but because my position was tied to a month-to-month client contract that ended. It was completely out of my control.
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<div>That moment was scary. I had just taken on this space, invested everything I had into it, and suddenly lost the stability I had been relying on to support it.
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<div>But I didn’t give up.
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<div>I doubled down on Owl’s Eye. I kept teaching classes, hosting events, building community, and taking on freelance design work to keep everything going. I even went into a corporate contract role at Wells Fargo to keep building toward this dream. I figured it out the same way I always have — by continuing to move forward, even when things felt uncertain. Getting through fear and stress is hard. You have to hustle, and it’s not easy.
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<div>Owls have always felt like a guide in my life. I see them constantly, especially in moments when I’m questioning where I’m going. They help me with that fear. To me, they represent intuition, protection, and a connection to something beyond what we can always explain.
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<div>A lot of people don’t know this, but I’ve experienced a lot of loss in my life. Even at 38, I’ve lost all three of my best friends that I grew up with, along with others close to me. That kind of loss changes you. It makes you think deeply about connection, about time, and about what really matters.
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<div>Owl’s Eye was born out of that — a desire to create a space where people can come together, feel something real, and not feel alone. I also wanted it to be accessible, including through a weekly free craft night where anyone is welcome.
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<div>And it worked.
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<div>Owl’s Eye has grown into something beautiful. People come here to try something new, to connect, to create, and to be part of something.
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<div>But now, I’m facing something I can’t ignore anymore.
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<div>Owl’s Eye is currently located right by the bus stops on 4th and Sibley, and over the past two years, the environment around the shop has become increasingly unsafe. There has been consistent drug use and dealing directly outside the space. I’ve called the police more times than anyone should have to. I’ve tried to be patient and hopeful that things would improve, but nothing has meaningfully changed.
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<div>The same dealers use people who are struggling with addiction to hide what they are doing. I have seen so much that no one should have to see while trying to run a small business and community space. It’s hard to explain everything I’ve been through with this bus stop. I’ve even had to basically move upstairs at times just to feel safer.
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<div>Recently, I had enough and posted on social media because no one in government seemed to be listening to the downtown businesses. Everyone kept saying, “Just keep calling the police,” which is something I had stopped doing for my own safety because they knew it was me and my neighbor calling. They were still outside daily, harassing the storefront, and even coming in to try to intimidate me into staying quiet. I’ve had some very scary moments.
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<div>It got to the point where I stopped opening by myself, which is why my hours have sometimes been inconsistent.
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<div>After people encouraged me to start calling again this spring, I began reporting what was happening more regularly. Since then, the situation has escalated. While walking to the farmers market this week, individuals who are regularly on the corner recognized me and verbally harassed me, calling me names and accusing me of reporting them. Since involving authorities again, I’ve been dealing with ongoing harassment both outside my shop and on the street.
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<div>I live and work in the same space, and every day I walk from my apartment directly into the shop. I often open and close alone. My partner Josh supports me when he can, but he works full-time and can’t always be there. Honestly, when Josh and I left the place this morning and the same dealer was standing 10 feet away calling me names, I don’t want to know what would have happened if Josh hadn’t been there.
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<div>The reality is — I don’t feel safe in my own space anymore.
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<div>As much as I love this neighborhood and everything we’ve built here, I can’t continue to run a business, host events, and show up for this community while also feeling this level of fear. I’ve had to stop an art class, where people came to relax and create, to administer Narcan to someone overdosing at the bus stop. No one should have to carry that while trying to run a community art space.
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<div>My lease is up in June, and honestly, I had started thinking about giving it all up — not because of the business itself, but because of the location and the safety of the people coming in.
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<div>But then something else happened.
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<div>At one of our free craft nights, after the second shooting involving community members trying to protect our neighbors, we all said we had to do something. What started as a linocut stamp print turned into me and a few volunteers raising over $8,000 and printing what feels like thousands of shirts, where people could bring in their own clothes to print for a full donation.
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<div>Even while I’ve been doing special prints and fundraising for the community, I’ve still had people harassing the shop. It’s been incredibly difficult.
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<div>And in the middle of all of that, something really incredible came up.
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<div>I found an amazing space right by CHS Field, so I’ll still be in Lowertown, which means everything to me. This community is the reason Owl’s Eye exists, and I don’t want to leave it.
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<div>The difference is, this space is twice the price but about five times bigger than my current shop.
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<div>For the first time, I’d be able to build Owl’s Eye into what it was always meant to be — not just a small storefront, but a true creative collective, mirrored on the kind of community I experienced at CVA and Nerdery.
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<div>A space where we can finally have a coworking area for creatives, a full art studio and printmaking lab, a rotating artist gallery and local gift shop, bookable space for classes and events, private studio areas, and a program where I teach people how to build websites while helping local nonprofits.
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<div>This is the space I’ve been working toward my entire life. A space where people can feel safe, create freely, and be part of something real. I’ve been funding Owl’s Eye myself through my work as a UX/UI and website designer, building this space piece by piece through classes, events, and community support.
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<div>This would also be my first true commercial space — a space fully designed for the business, instead of the live/work setup I’ve been making work until now.
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<div>I am building out memberships, classes, rentals, and multiple revenue streams to make this sustainable long-term. But the biggest barrier right now is the upfront cost of making the move.
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<div>Your support will help cover the security deposit and first months of rent, moving and buildout costs, expanding the printmaking lab, setting up coworking and community spaces, and keeping classes and events accessible during the transition.
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<div>I’m also hosting live screenprinting fundraisers, offering memberships, and continuing to run classes, so there are many ways to support beyond donating. You can donate, share this campaign, come to an event, or become a member of Owl’s Eye.
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<div>Every bit helps. My social posts have been getting 8,000-10,000 views. I need help with the first months rent and deposit. So even 1 dollar is something!
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<div>Owl’s Eye has never just been a shop. It’s a place where people try something new, where artists connect, and where community shows up for each other.
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<div>I’ve spent my life learning how to build spaces like this.
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<div>This is everything I’ve worked toward.
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<div>I truly believe in what this space can become, and I know I can make it something really special.
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<div>I just need help getting there.
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<div>Thank you for being part of this and helping me take this next step.
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<div>Michelle
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<div>Owl’s Eye Art Collective
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Support Owl’s Eye’s New Creative Hub in Lowertown

<div>Our father is currently hospitalized following a ruptured aneurysm, which has resulted in significant speech and mobility impairments requiring assistance. We are seeking contributions to support his medical expenses and rehabilitation. Your generosity would be greatly appreciated.
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Dad’s Recovery

<p>Por favor hoy con el corazón ❤️ en la mano necesito de su ayuda tengo 4 hijos que mantener más que nada ser fuerte y que no me de depresión ansiedad de todo esto....durante 2 mes no se a podido trabajar por favor ayúdeme a pagar la luz,el gas,mi renta y si no es una cosa sale otro el techo gotea son 2 cuartos exactamente en dónde está la luz y el baño...no se que tanta humedad este entrando si hay alguien que tenga material para techo se lo agradecería que me regale ...Dios mio hasta cuando seguiremos aguantando tantas injusticias 
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<p>Hay tanta necesidad en estos momentos que un dolar $1 $5 $10 hace la diferencia por favor ayúdeme... 
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<p>mi nombre es Adriana Robles tengo 12 años viviendo en MINNESOTA mi segundo hijo nació con un problema del corazón (sopló) gracias adiós a los 6 meses lo operaron.. ahora ya tiene 11 años y me dijo su cardiólogo que necesita operación de nuevo...solo le pido Adiós que nos ayude de seguir aquí y que todo esto se acabé.. entiendo si no me puedes ayudar 
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<p>solo comparte muchas gracias 
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Dona para ayudar apagar la renta

<div>hola estoy recaudado para mi familia. Porque con lo que está pasando. Aca en Minnesota está muy feo para la renta y biles  
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Se lo agradezco de todo corazon. Mil gracias bendiciones by

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<div>Yesterday, our lives were turned upside down. ICE agents came to our home unexpectedly, broke down our door, and detained my husband without presenting a physical warrant. Our children, just 7 and 12 years old, witnessed officers enter with guns drawn. This traumatic experience has shaken us deeply and left our family heartbroken and overwhelmed.
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<div>My husband is a good man with a big heart. For over two decades he has stayed out of trouble, worked hard, and been a devoted husband and father to our children. He is the kind of person who has always shown up for others. We all make mistakes in life, and I kindly ask that no one pass judgment without knowing our full story.
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<div>We are facing urgent legal expenses as we fight to bring him home. Funds raised will go directly toward:
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<div>• Attorney and legal fees
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<div>• Support for our children as they cope with this trauma
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<div>This is one of the hardest moments our family has ever faced, but I believe that through the grace of God, we will get through it. Any support — whether financial, spiritual, or simply sharing this page — means more than words can express.
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<div>Thank you for standing with us during this painful and uncertain time.
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<div><strong>VENMO/ZELLE ACCEPTED</strong>
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<div><strong>venmo: Lanoi-Keungsavath</strong>
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<div><strong>(contact organizer for Zelle)</strong>
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Help Toun’s Family After Immigration Raid

<div>Please support the widow and family of Renee Good as they grapple with the devastating loss of their wife and mother.
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<div>Renee was pure sunshine, pure love. She will be desperately missed.
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Support for Renee Good’s Widow and Family

<div>UPDATE:
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<div>Colin and Sophie are moved by the outpouring of kindness and support of so many people. Your donations are helping them manage difficult logistics, honor their parents’ legacies, and lay them to rest.
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<div>Thanks to your incredible generosity, Sophie and Colin are considering future memorials to continue the work that their parents started and celebrate the interests they held dear.
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<div>Mark and Melissa Hortman along with their golden retriever Gilbert were tragically assassinated on June 14, 2025, by a man posing as a police officer at their front door at 3:30AM. In the ensuing police response to capture the assassin, their home, garage and cars were severely damaged in a hail of bullets, stun grenades and tear gas canisters. We are grateful for the efforts of law enforcement in successfully apprehending the killer after a statewide manhunt.
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<div>Mark and Melissa are survived by their children Colin and Sophie Hortman.
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<div>I created this GoFundMe to raise funds to help Colin and Sophie. I greatly miss my sister Melissa and brother-in-law Mark and want to help my niece and nephew through this difficult time.
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<div><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/vance-boelter-suspect-in-minnesota-shootings-captured-after-manhunt/ar-AA1GM8fl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/vance-boelter-suspect-in-minnesota-shootings-captured-after-manhunt/ar-AA1GM8fl" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/vance-boelter-suspect-in-minnesota-shootings-captured-after-manhunt/ar-AA1GM8fl</a></a>
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Support Colin and Sophie After Their Tragic Loss

Dear Family, Friends and community,<br /><br />Last Monday, Liam went for a routine tonsillitis surgery. After the surgery he came home and did not seem to be healing. Wednesday night into Thursday morning, he threw up two liters of blood at home. Thursday morning he was rushed back Children’s where doctors discovered the source of the bleed: a post tonsillectomy hemorrhage in his right carotid artery.  In layman’s terms, his carotid artery— the main artery to the brain— was leaking since his surgery, causing him to slowly bleed out. 
<br /> <br />During his second surgery, he needed nine units of blood plus additives and during surgery went into cardiac arrest. He coded on the operating table for 10 minutes before doctors were able to revive him. Afterwards, he was intubated for his own safety. 
<br /><br /> Initial results indicate he does not have brain damage, but there are immediate health issues that will take months to heal. More details will be known as the weeks go by. He is currently intubated and sedated in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Children’s Hospital.
<br /><br /> Doctors anticipate he will remain in this state at least for a few weeks before slowly weaning him off the ventilator. Recovery afterwards will last months as doctors learn what kind of physical and mental issues he may have.
<br /><br /> Dan and Ashleigh have been at the hospital every day and little sister Willa is being taken care of by family and friends. Liam is currently not accepting visitors. 
<br /><br /> The financial burden of Liam’s hospital and recovery bills will be tremendous after months of intensive care. Your donation will help the family pay for medical bills. 
<br /><br /> Your prayers and good wishes are needed during this time. Dan and Ashleigh are surrounded by family and may take a few days to respond to messages.

Support Liam's Critical Recovery Journey

<div>Hi, I’m Cassie, and I’ve been on a spiritual journey for the last 3 years filled with hurdles, bumps, and bruises. <strong>Me and my kids have had everything stolen from us this year</strong>. Our car was towed by cops who kidnapped us and tried to criminalize me with no grounds. The case was dismissed, I was released, and now we have been displaced as my own mother put me and my two children on the street out of fear of losing her abusive husband. 

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<div>We are in Yuba City trying to get transportation and housing, and instead of helping us, they put us back on the street, denying us assistance. <strong>We slept outside for the first time in my life and were freezing cold. No one came to help us.</strong> I tried shelters, and they told us not until Monday. We cannot wait; we need stable housing and a car now!! <strong>The winter is here and Christmas, and all I want is to be home for the holidays.</strong> Your generous gifts can make our dreams a reality and lifelong friendship. Thank you!!

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Bring Cassie and Her Kids Home for the Holidays

<div>Gorell Update: January 2025
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<div>Well, a new year brings new challenges and new hopes. My dad's home is nearly ready to welcome them back from the shelter. It's the final stretch, and Rich and Lynne need a boost to make it real. The last construction and furnishings are still out of reach - a financial need of roughly $8,700 separates them from being back in their house. 
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<div>Please, please support them if you can and take just a moment to SHARE the link! So many are in need with the latest disasters, but I hope to get my papa settled before his 88th birthday. THANK YOU  for your kindness!
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Help Richard and Lynne Recover After Flood

<div>Our 22.5 month old Shetland Sheepdog, Riot, is in urgent need of a life saving surgery.
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<div>Riot is an amazingly sweet, smart, funny dog. He is an otherwise young, healthy dog who is only just getting started in life as well as his Agility, Flyball, FastCat and Barn Hunt career. He has earned 9 titles this year alone. When Riot is not out having a blast in Agility class every week or chasing the 'bunnies' at FastCat, you can most often find him in the lap of one of his humans or dropping a toy at their feet, insisting they play with him!
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<div>Last week, Riot was feeling under the weather and what was initially diagnosed and treated as a 'tummy virus' progressed to difficulty breathing by Friday, 10/13. He was rushed to the the University of Minnesota Emergency Vet where he was diagnosed with <a href="https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/idiopathic-chylothorax-in-the-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Idiopathic Chylothorax</a>, where a fatty fluid is leaking into his chest cavity and preventing his lungs from fully expanding. 
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<div>Riot spent the night in the ICU and had this fluid removed, he was then stable enough to come home Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately, he declined Sunday evening and had to be readmitted to the ICU, where he remains today, to have his chest drained again and ultimately have a chest tube placed to facilitate regular draining. Riot now urgently needs a complex surgery called a Thoracic Duct Ligation to stop the flow of this fluid into his chest cavity. Dogs with this surgery have an 80-100% success rate at returning to a completely normal life. His surgeon feels that because of his age he is an excellent candidate for this surgery, and even expects that he could return to a completely normal life, including a return to dog sports. 
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<div>The complexity of this surgery and the level of hospitalization required is costly. At this time they have given us an estimate of $14,000-15,000 for all of his diagnostics, treatments, CT scan, surgery and hospitalization.
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<div>As no pet owner plans for this kind of expense in such a very young dog, we are hoping to fundraise some of these costs to help buffer the financial strain and allow us to focus on getting Riot healthy and back home with us.
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<div>Any amount collected above our goal will be set aside for future follow ups as part of Riot's continued care plan.
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<div>Riot is so loved and has so much life ahead of him still and, he is a fighter!
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<div>Thank you for considering donating to Riot's care. Please continue to keep him in your thoughts!
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Riot's Medical Expenses

<div>Hello! My name is Katie &amp; I am the owner &amp; operator of cry baby clay, a Minneapolis community clay resource.
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<div>I started selling take-home clay kits from my front porch at the start of the pandemic. They took off in popularity, which required &amp; enabled me to open up an in-person pottery studio! I provide fun, affordable &amp; casual access to working with clay.
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<div>I have spent these past two years sprinting to catch up to the growth of my business (which is a good problem to have!) but also not NOT a problem.
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<div>When I first signed my lease for the studio, I launched a fundraiser but did not meet my goal (I raised a bit over $3,000 on a $27,000 goal). After that, I racked up a significant amount of credit card debt to be able to jump-start my business, and now I am having difficulty paying for studio upkeep, kiln maintenance, groceries, car repairs, etc.
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<div><strong>I have poured 100% of myself &amp; my resources into this business and am at the point where I need to ask for help. </strong>
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<div>I recently applied for a bank loan but was denied because I don't have enough income. Fun fact! cry baby clay made $42,000 in sales last year! WHICH IS SO COOL!! I also racked up $40,000 in expenses. Less cool :(
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<div>Rather than dig deeper into a debt hole, I'm trying my luck to see if enough people have some dollars they can send my way to keep this dream (for me &amp; the community) alive!
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<div><strong>It's so hard to ask for help, but I realize that I've been treading water for so long, this second attempt at a fundraiser is long overdue.</strong> Especially since I recently had to close for 2 weeks due to having Covid, &amp; then promptly ran into some kiln issues upon my return, setting me back quite a bit.
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<div>It would mean the world to me if you could donate if you're able, tell your friends &amp; family, and share this with your followers.
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<div>I'll still be operating the studio business as usual while I run this fundraiser, which I hope can alleviate my financial stress. So please consider popping in some time to say hello, grab a take-home clay kit, sign up for workshops, or book private events. <br /><br />
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<div>Thank you for taking the time to read this. I'm feeling SUPER vulnerable right now
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Help Keep cry baby clay going!

<div><strong>UPDATE: (04/29/2022) All funds raised during this time are being used to fund additional security officers for our campus. Also, beginning in the Fall 2022 semester, funds raised will provide for additional Mental Health Providers for our students. Thank you to everyone for your continued support of our students and staff.</strong><br /><br /><br />The Magic City Acceptance Academy (MCAA) is a public charter school opening in the fall of 2021 and owned by Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO). MCAA will motivate and prepare 250-300 students in grades 6-12 by providing an exceptional, innovative, and quality-driven education. Money will be raised through BAO and will go directly to MCAA at a 100% rate.
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<div>MCAA has a mission to facilitate a community in which all learners are empowered to embrace education, achieve individual success, and take ownership of their future in a brave, LGBTQ affirming learning environment. MCAA's purpose is to engage students who have dropped out, are not thriving in traditional schools, and specifically students who are home-schooled but are not thriving in that environment.
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<div><strong>MCAA is the FIRST Public Charter School that we know of in the US with LGBTQ+ in its mission statement.</strong>
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<div>MCAA welcomed its first students on August 30, 2021 in Homewood, AL which is a suburb just outside of Birmingham, AL. This campaign will help fund the cost of furnishings and equipment for our school to help our students achieve success! All money raised will go directly to purchase MCAA furniture, equipment including for the fine arts programs and daily needs to keep our school safe, healthy and clean.
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<div>MCAA is a part of Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO). BAO was established in 1986 as the first HIV/AIDS Community Based Organization in Alabama. BAO is also the fiscal agent and parent organization of the Magic City Acceptance Center, The Magic City Wellness Center, The Magic City Legal Center, and The Magic City Research Institute.
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Magic City Acceptance Academy

Birmingham AIDS Outreach, Inc.

<div>The Kyiv Independent is Ukraine’s fastest-growing English-language media outlet, created in November 2021, just three months before the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
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<div>We are a reader-funded publication that exists because of the support of its community.
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<div>The Kyiv Independent turned three years old in 2024. It might not seem like a big deal. The New York Times is 173 years old. Le Monde is 80. Der Spiegel — 77. The Guardian is 203. What’s three years compared to that?
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<div>For us, every day of these three years was hard-won.
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<div>Nothing about how the Kyiv Independent started was normal. When you imagine yourself launching a new venture, you must imagine months of careful planning, pitching to investors, putting together a team, and picking out a location for an office.
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<div>Well, we had four days. You read that right.
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<div>Three years ago, we were fired from a newspaper for standing up to censorship attempts. It was gutting. We were a bunch of young journalists, standing up against a rich owner who thought that he showed us how the world runs — and who runs it.
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<div>Fortunately, we were young and rebellious enough to not accept it. Four days later, we announced that we were launching our own newspaper. We will show them, we thought. We will show them that you can do independent journalism, and not bow to anyone.
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<div>There was one tiny inconvenience. We had no money. This grand idea of doing independent English-language journalism from Ukraine had very good chances of crashing when it met with reality.
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<div>And then… you showed up. Our readers. Thousands of you have chosen to support our work — you made it all possible.
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<div>When the full-scale invasion hit, just three months after we started the Kyiv Independent, you were there for us. And we showed up for you, too — we became your window into Ukraine as it has been fighting for its existence.
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<div>Since then, we have written thousands of articles, hundreds of field reports. We produced six documentaries. We published news-breaking investigations. Our team won over 20 international awards for its journalism. Our team grew from 18 to 60 people.
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<div>The Kyiv Independent is now read by millions of people each month. Yet only one in 10,000 readers makes a financial contribution.
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<div>We need your support to keep going. Your support means that, as we are facing 2025 and the uncertainties it will bring, we will be stronger, more resilient, and will be able to continue bringing you reliable journalism from Ukraine, whatever may come.
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<div>Please consider donating to <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kyivindependent-launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/kyivindependent-launch" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.gofundme.com/f/kyivindependent-launch</a></a>
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<div><strong>If you feel like pledging a monthly donation, you are welcome to become </strong><a href="https://kyivindependent.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>our member</strong></a><strong>. </strong>Our members contribute anywhere from $5 a month and enjoy benefits. Over 12,000 people have become our members already.
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<div>Photo credit: Oksana Parafeniuk
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<div>The Kyiv Independent was born out of a refusal to compromise on the truth. Founded in November 2021 by a group of journalists who were dismissed for their steadfast commitment to independent journalism, the Kyiv Independent quickly became a crucial voice for Ukraine as Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. As one of the few Ukrainian news outlets providing on-the-ground coverage in English, the Kyiv Independent offers a unique perspective on the country's struggles and resilience.
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<div><strong>Why We Matter</strong>
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<div>When Russia launched the full-scale invasion, the Kyiv Independent’s dedicated team brought real-time reporting to an international audience, bridging Ukraine’s story to the world. Within months, the outlet expanded its global reach to millions of readers. Today, it remains a trusted source of truth, delivering frontline reporting, investigative journalism, cultural insights, and critical war crime investigations.
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<div><strong>Our Impact and Achievements</strong>
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<div>The Kyiv Independent has already achieved substantial recognition for its bold and rigorous reporting:
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<li>War Crimes Investigations: Our War Crimes Investigations Unit has produced compelling, award-winning documentaries that investigate atrocities and bring visibility to the plight of Ukrainian civilians. This work has reached global audiences and has been crucial in holding perpetrators accountable.
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<li>Global Recognition and Awards: The Kyiv Independent team has received multiple journalism awards, including recognition from prestigious global journalism organizations, underscoring its commitment to ethical, fearless journalism.
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<li>Expansive Coverage: Beyond front-line updates, the Kyiv Independent dives deep into cultural stories, socio-political developments, and investigative reports that expose abuse and highlight the resilience of Ukrainian society. With dedicated coverage of issues that traditional media may overlook, it brings an authentic, nuanced view of Ukraine to the world.
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<div><strong>Our Vision and Need for Support</strong>
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<div>Remaining independent and accountable only to its readers is at the core of the Kyiv Independent’s mission. With no corporate backers or government funding, the outlet relies on contributions from readers and supporters worldwide. This independence allows us to provide uncompromised coverage and pursue ambitious investigations that keep the global community informed.
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<div>Your support empowers the Kyiv Independent to continue its essential work: documenting history, informing global audiences, and giving a voice to those affected by the war. Join us in ensuring that Ukraine’s story is told with accuracy, empathy, and integrity.
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<div><strong>Support the Kyiv Independent Today</strong>
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<div>Every contribution sustains our efforts to cover Ukraine’s fight for freedom and democracy. Together, we can ensure that the Kyiv Independent remains a resilient, independent voice for Ukraine and beyond.
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Keep the Kyiv Independent going

<div>It is with a very heavy heart that I share this news. 





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<div>On Thursday, November 4th Kelsey went into cardiac arrest while exercising in her home.  Tom was also home and acted immediately, performing CPR until the paramedics arrived, minutes later.  She was taken by ambulance to North Memorial Hospital, where she was admitted into the ICU.  After many scans, tests and assessments it was tragically determined that Kelsey had suffered unsurvivable brain trauma.   Our beloved Kelsey passed away Tuesday November 9th. 





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<div>Kelsey.  The kindest, funniest, most amazing wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, co-worker and friend.




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<div>Whether you met Kelsey once, you were family or a life-long friend to know her is to love her.  She was so giving to others.  Kelsey left this earth in the same fashion that she lived her life.  Kelsey's wishes to be an organ donor were honored, meaning our loss is the life saving, miracle that other families had prayed for.  She is a hero.  Her memory will live on in all of our hearts and the memories we share, and we all know there are SO MANY amazing memories with Kelsey :).  Her memory will live on in the donor recipients whose lives she saved.  Most importantly her memory will live on through Tom and Kelsey's two beautiful boys, Joe(5) and Will(3) who were her world.  





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<div>Let's show Tom, Joe and Will how much we love them, not just right now during this most difficult time, but all along the way.  We are all in this together, for Kelsey!&lt;3





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<div>There will be a celebration of life for Kelsey, more details on this to come.  





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In Loving Memory of Kelsey (Williams) Jaster

<p>Thank you so much for taking the time to read about our campaign. ❤
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<p>I knew it was a risk. I knew it was a risk to sign the lease to this space, but I had to take it. I had to try. The landlord told me, it’s all a risk. How do you grow if you don’t know? And the business has grown, faster than I imagined. The growth in 3 years from being a pop-up, to a spot in Midtown Global Market, and now here in this incredible space is a lot to wrap my brain around! In truth, I was at the market for such a short time before COVID shut the market down, then the uprisings, that I didn’t really get the opportunity to grow there &amp; it still kind of feels like I’m in year 2 of running my business, rather than the 3rd. So, when my lease was nearing the end at MGM, I started looking for other options and saw the old Fairbault Woolen Mills space was available. A reach, I felt! But I tried no less.
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<p>I had negotiated from the get-go to try to get the rent lowered. It was expensive. We’re still in the throes of a pandemic. People are only just beginning to come out again. $2500 was asked of me since the previous tenant was paying $3500, I was getting a “deal.” I asked if he could do $1800, he said, “think about what you can really do and get back to me.” I asked for $2000. He asked, can you do $2200? I took it. Knowing this was HUGE stretch for me from the meager rent in comparison at MGM of $800, but my business wasn’t growing there. I knew it would grow here, I was hopeful, I manifested, I prayed. I had $5000 left from a grant I received during the pandemic and used it as a deposit. We signed the lease. I gulped and my heart leapt! With this bigger beautiful space, I could share it with other talented local makers, I knew we could host events, I knew it was the right move for The Greenery Mpls.
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<p>Soon though, it became very apparent that this rent was dipping into my reserves, not allowing me to get ahead. Although business is the best it’s ever been, a huge portion of the profits goes to sustaining this space. I started panicking about keeping up with supply &amp; demand, paying rent, my vendors, my car, insurances, my kid’s needs, etc. I was doing community work during this time but scaled back because I was burning out. Scaling back also meant I lost my buffer income. I was shocked when I was late on rent for August and he immediately threatened with an eviction. Which was the opposite of the message that is posted on their 3-day rent reminders of, “We understand people are going through hardships during this time. If you need to make payment arrangements contact the office. We pride ourselves on stewardship, etc.” I’ve attempted to make arrangements. I have reached out to resources in my Native community for assistance, amongst other organizations but it still looms that this breach in the lease could lead to an eviction. I am devastated. Devastated that we worked so hard and invested thousands of dollars to get here only to have it taken for $2200. For $2200, I would have an eviction on my record impairing my ability to rent again, as a woman-owned business, when he knew this was a stretch for me to begin with. It feels predatory, this complete inability to work with me to resolve it and I would lose my deposit, unable to use it for another affordable location if needed. Verbatim, “It’s clear what the consequences are.” It feels more punishable than workable.
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<p>For the most part, I have been doing everything by myself. I don’t have a team, other than my family who have helped me through every move we made. The Taurus in me doesn’t like to ask for outside help until it’s dire, like a bull in barbed wire. Even then, this is humbling for me to do this, to ask for help, but it's so needed.
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<p>If you have been positively impacted by our shop, The Greenery Mpls, please consider donating any amount and please leave a few kind words. I’ve been told that the shop feels warm, inviting, and supportive and has been a great addition to the neighborhood. This is an accomplishment in and of itself. My mother said I should petition to stay! If we are indeed summoned, I’d like to at least share how the shop has made an impression on you. I am forever grateful for each of you who have come through and supported us during tough times. You’re not only supporting the shop but also many vendors. Consider this a petition of support!
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<p>My main concerns are first and foremost to pay last month and this month’s rent immediately so we can prevent eviction, even if this isn’t the final destination for our business. Second, I want to make sure the vendors are paid and taken care of. Donations will go directly to sustaining this space, vendors, then utility bills, until we figure out our next best move. This $15k will help with this transition and help us to stay open and on top of things. We (myself &amp; my family) would love your help and are so thankful you took the time to read this and share.
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<p>With deepest humility &amp; gratitude, chi miigwech!
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<p>Mel
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<p>Owner, The Greenery Mpls
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Help Keep The Greenery Mpls Open!

<br />Katie Mumm of Grand Marais, MN was injured in an accident on Tuesday, February 23rd doing what she loves most, photography - trying to capture a gorgeous elusive sunset over Lake Superior. <br /><br /><br />She completely broke in half both the tibia and fibula in her lower left leg just above the ankle. After a hair-raising rescue and trip to the hospital, Grand Marais Emergency Department put a splint on the leg and shipped her to Duluth St.Luke’s Hospital for surgery. After a long wait and tremendous amount of pain she finally got into the OR. Surgery didn’t go as planned, and the doctors were unable to perform the repair surgery due to the severity of the injury and the damage to her skin and tissues from the accident. She had developed a blister and bruises from the accident, so they were unable to open up the leg for fear of infection. The doctor installed an external fixator, which will be in place for approximately 3 weeks, allowing time for her skin to heal. After that she will begin the first of several follow up surgeries.<br /><br /> <br /><br />Katie will have to be non-weight bearing for 2-3 months. She will be unable to work for 8-12 weeks, requiring multiple surgeries and trips to Duluth. Katie finds it hard to imagine being out of work for such a long time. <br /><br /><br />Katie asks for prayers and says, “The pain feels pretty unbearable at times. I know that God will get me through but prayers help too.”<br /><br /><br />Parker and Katie’s dad have been with her in Duluth. Once Katie is released from St.Luke’s she will spend several days in Duluth and then return home in Grand Marais with her mom as her home nurse. She looks forward to getting home as she is missing her dog Annie and cats.<br /><br /><br />Katie could really use your help.  Thank you!

Help Katie Mumm medical bills for broken leg

<a href="https://kdvr.com/2019/08/28/aurora-officers-on-leave-after-altercation-leaves-man-hospitalized/" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://kdvr.com/2019/08/28/aurora-officers-on-leave-after-altercation-leaves-man-hospitalized/</a>

Elijah McClain

Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund

If you know Ashley, like many, many of you do - then you know she is one of the most uniquely incredible human beings out there. She has a truly kindhearted spirit and an undeniable zest for life (and donuts!) Not only is she a talented local MN photographer and everyone’s favorite Pure Barre instructor - she is a friend, daughter, sister, fighter, eternal optimist and an all around serious badass lady. <br /><br />On March 8, 2019 Ashley’s world was turned upside down when she received the diagnosis of Stage 4 Melanoma. She has roughly 20 tumors in her brain, lung, liver, small intestine and abdomen plus a few lymph nodes. <br /><br />She and her incredible support system (all of YOU!) are going to fight this every single step of the way and come out victorious, without a doubt.<br /><br />Please consider donating to The Cancer Tour 2019 (what Ashley has coined this chapter in her story). The only thing she should be focusing on right now is her health and kicking the sh*t out of cancer!<br /><br /><br />Read more about Ashley’s story on her blog: <br /><a href="https://www.ashleycohn.com/blog/cancerwillnotwin" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.ashleycohn.com/blog/cancerwillnotwin</a>

Ashley’s Fight to Kick Cancer’s A$$

Since we were kids my brother Tommy has always been the most generous one. We grew up in a house of four boys initially with a single mum. I was the oldest and my brother Tommy came third. Fortunately a few years later our step father came into the picture and single handedly helped our mum raise us by working two jobs just to keep a roof over our heads.<br /><br />Fast forward a few years I am now 27 and my brother is 23. He moved to interstate to finish his degree and train as a sprinter for the Commonwealth Games. Since arriving interstate Tommy came to learn that we had a little cousin just 16 years old who was homeless and living on the streets. Both her parents were addicted to heroin, she had no clothes, no food, no shelter, and was pregnant with a child. She had nowhere to go and no immediate family in the state apart from Tommy. She had also lived one of the most traumatic lives immaginable. <br /><br />Without giving a second thought Tommy took her in and spent all his spare time working to get her clothes, medical needs and government assistance. At the age of just 23 tommy took in our little cousin and found them both a place to live that was safe and could house them both plus the new born baby. He did all of this whilst studying, training and working long hours to make ends meet. <br /><br />A month ago our little cousin gave birth to a health baby boy and the first person he saw that cut the cord was my brother Tommy. So dedicated he was that he sat patiently in the emergency room finishing his University assignments while he waited for her to recover from the birth. As you can see by this picture mum and baby are perfectly healthy and happy and Tommy was there for the whole thing.<br /><br />Any money raised would set Tommy up for this next chapter of his life. While most of his friends are out partying, socialising or having fun Tommy simply works, studies and takes care of our little cousin and her new baby boy. Anyone who has raised a kid knows how tough it can be but at the age of just 23 to look after an adopted 16 year old girl and a new born baby is beyond admirable and something that only a small handful of people could manage.<br /><br />Tommy doesn't tell like to tell people this but every week he puts away a little bit of money for our cousin and her baby so that eventually she will have enough to live on her own and take care of them both.<br /><br />I set this page up to give Tommy the kick start that he needs and to try and give this little baby boy the life that his mum never had. Tommy has stepped in and broken the cycle single handedly but the road ahead will be difficult emotionally and financially. If this campaign reaches its target all funds will go directly to Tommy enabling him to provide for himself, our little cousin and her baby.

Tommy's Little Family Fund