Nominate an Unsung Caretaker
Caretakers of Minnesota are those taking action, big or small, to care for the natural places we all share. Their efforts help Minnesota thrive, and they deserve to be seen and celebrated.
Search Results
St. Thomas University: Empowering Students to Lead in Sustainability and Care for the Mississippi River
Situated along the Mississippi River in the heart of the Twin Cities, St. Thomas University is inspiring the next generation of stewards. At St. Thomas, caring for our natural spaces starts with empowering students. “We’re catalyzing university-wide engagement so that we can prepare students to be leaders in sustainability, no matter what field or path… Read More →
The Buttered Tin: Elevating Brunch and Embracing Care for Place with Sustainable Practices
At The Buttered Tin, you’ll find more than award winning pastries and a delicious brunch spread: care of place is central to their values and everyday practices. Founded in 2013 by James Beard-recognized pastry chef Alicia Hinze. The Buttered Tin creates a welcoming space to enjoy elevated American breakfast & lunch classics and sweet treats.… Read More →
Become an Upstream Care for Place Fellow
Do you love where you live? We are looking for individuals who have stories to tell about their natural Minnesota place, and how they care for it. Upstream Initiative announces an open call for the A Care for Place fellowship! This call will support a cohort of 10 Minnesotans with $1,200 project stipends to create and document… Read More →
Building for Beauty and Care for Place with Terra Firma
Terra Firma, a Minnesota-based general contracting company, helps bridge between their clients vision and sustainable building practices that care for our place.. As an employee-owned company, they understand the importance of creating shared value and a strong culture. Terra Firma helps their clients to create sustainable homes that consider their neighbors, the rest of Minnesota,… Read More →
Healthy Places, Healthy People with CentraCare
Upstream Partner CentraCare is the largest healthcare system in central and western Minnesota. Their purpose statement begins with the words, “We’re Here for Your Whole Life”, and is intentional about the ways they engage with and care for the natural places where they work. CentraCare understands how important nature is to public health. “We’re purposeful… Read More →
Our Story | Why Upstream Cares for Minnesota’s Future
The conversation about the environment is stuck in political debate, leaving out many whose opinions and values may otherwise align. Yet, as Minnesotans, we take action every day to care for our place, acting from values we share with family, neighbors, and community. To find common ground, we need to go upstream—bringing together these shared…
Caring for Place and Each Other: Finding Unity in Stewardship
Written by Alex Blondeau, Upstream Care for Place Fellow 2025 There was a time in my life—a time that now feels like it was quite some time ago—when I was a professional student of theology. I was used to a certain social tension that always seemed present in those circles, especially when meeting new people.… Read More →
APPLICATIONS OPEN: East St. Paul Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator
Upstream is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that channels Minnesotan’s love of our natural places into increased connection, trust and stewardship. Our organization creates connections and shares stories that inspire more positive action to care for our natural places. As Upstream’s East St. Paul Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator you will play a vital role in… Read More →
Mental Health and Nature: How Stewardship in Minnesota Supports Well-Being
In the hustle and noise of daily life, nature has a quiet but powerful way of bringing us back to ourselves. Whether it’s a stroll through a neighborhood park, a hike along the North Shore, or simply tending a garden, green spaces offer more than just beauty—they offer healing. In Minnesota, where seasons shift dramatically… Read More →
Caring for Place in Minnesota: Restoring Native Prairie in Fergus Falls
Written by Alex Blondeau, Upstream Care for Place Fellow On the north side of Fergus Falls, not far from where I grew up, there was once a junkyard. When I was probably still in junior high, the city purchased the land and hauled away all the broken cars. I remember it being an interesting place… Read More →
We’re Hiring: Executive Director
After four years, our Executive Director will be handing off the leadership of Upstream this summer. Andy has helped launch the new organization and build the campaign across Minnesota. This is a planned transition as Upstream has evolved in our strategy and has established our organization. Andy is returning to his work at AGG Marketing,… Read More →