Community Engagement Monthly Report: March 2026

Community engagement activities seek to improve the health and vitality of our communities by leveraging our organization's capacities and expertise to meet the needs of the communities we serve.

Community Partnership in Action

two men and a woman standing by a white box truck while smiling

Essentia Health–Virginia Hospital donated unused furniture to the Salvation Army of Hibbing to help furnish the lobby of the Warming Center. These items will help create a more welcoming, comfortable space for people seeking warmth, safety, or relief from extreme heat.

Partnering with the Head of the Lakes United Way

Four women surround tables with boxed items on the table

Head of the Lakes United Way brought a volunteer opportunity to Essentia Health, where team members assembled hygiene kits for local nonprofits and babysitting kits for youth. Essentia also contributed $7,500 to support free Red Cross-certified babysitting classes in Northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. These classes have certified 77 youth so far.

Girls Night Out at the Baxter Clinic

Ladies in fancy costumes

Baxter Clinic was one of the stops for Girls Night Out, offering a chance to connect with the community and share helpful health information. We talked about healthy eating, routine appointments, and regular exams to help people stay healthy.

West River Head Start Family Literacy Night

Two women sit at a table, both wearing warm, friendly smiles.

Family Literacy Night brought together 26 families and 102 attendees for an evening of learning and fun. Essentia Health team members led children in a dragonfly and mosquito craft that helped build fine motor skills.

Career Exploration Day at Central Lakes College

Essentia employees introducing 10th graders to hands-on learning activities

Essentia team members brought hands-on learning activities to more than 2,000 10th graders in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Activities included making lotion, simulation learning, imaging demonstrations, lung comparisons, and grip strength testing.

Volunteers in Action

A young man puts his arm around an older man's shoulders while the man smiles.

Thank you to Boy Scout Troop 116 for volunteering and representing the group at the North St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity Annual Dinner. Their service, along with support from other local troops and church groups, helped make the evening a success.

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