In every corner of Minnesota, individuals are quietly committed to caring for our natural places. They embody the essence of stewardship, not for recognition but out of love for the land, water, and communities we call home. This year, Upstream is proud to honor the 2024 Unsung Caretakers, whose stories remind us of the importance of caring for our natural places.

Here are a few inspiring snapshots of Minnesotans caring for our natural places.

Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary

Based on the North Shore of Minnesota, the Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary, founded by Rebeka Ndosi, is a black-led, nature-based healing retreat created to provide rest, reconnection, and rejuvenation of mind, body & soul for Black, Indigenous, and communities of color across generations. The staff seeks to build an intentional space rooted in healing, restoration, and thriving. Rebeka’s vision centers around the sanctuary as a place where people can connect with the land, and find peace. 

Mary Flood’s Garden of Care

For Mary Flood, stewardship begins at home. Using only chemical-free methods, Mary also grows her own vegetables, fruits and herbs. But her impact doesn’t stop there. She also utilizes her neighborhood Buy Nothing group to keep used but still useful things out of the landfill. Her daily efforts to reduce her environmental impact inspire those around her to think small, act often, and remember that every choice big or small makes a difference in loving where we live.

Regions Hospital Energy Team

In Saint Paul, the Regions Hospital Energy Team is proving that sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. By focusing on energy efficiency and conservation, this team has not only reduced the hospital’s environmental footprint but also set an example of what’s possible when organizations commit to stewardship. Their efforts ripple outward, showing Minnesotans that even the largest institutions can make meaningful changes for the planet.

Why These Stories Matter

Each of these caretakers brings a unique approach to stewardship, whether through creating community spaces, cultivating gardens, or driving institutional change. Their work reminds us that caring for Minnesota’s natural places isn’t just about conservation—it’s about connection.

We live in a time when divisions often feel insurmountable, but the 2024 Unsung Caretakers show us another path. Their stories encourage us to find common ground in our shared love for Minnesota’s beauty and potential.

How You Can Join the Movement

Inspired by these stories? Here are a few ways to get involved:

• Take the Upstream Pledge: Commit to caring for Minnesota, seeing the best in your neighbors, and taking action for stewardship.
• Find Your Next: Explore opportunities to care for the land, whether it’s through volunteering, learning about sustainable practices, or joining a community project.
• Share Your Story: Know an Unsung Caretaker? Share their story with us to inspire others!

By celebrating the work of individuals like Rebeka, Mary, and the Regions Hospital Energy Team, we highlight the many ways Minnesotans are showing up for the land we love. Together, we can bridge divides and create a Minnesota that thrives for generations to come.

Let’s continue to love where we live.