Winners of the Unsung Caretaker award will receive $250 to apply to their volunteer work and be recognized at an Upstream event in October 2026. Upstream will select 5 individuals, communities or organizations in each of our two regions, to be recognized as our 2026 Caretakers of Minnesota. Nominate yourself, your neighbor, friend, co-worker, organization or community group and help inspire more Minnesotans to care for this place we share and love. 

Nominations are now closed!

Join Upstream at the Unsung Caretake Event(s)! Enjoy a delicious dinner, meaningful conversations, and the chance to connect with others who share your commitment to caring for Minnesota. Join us to gather, celebrate, and be inspired by the power we each hold to nurture the places that make our state home. The event is free to attend, but we do ask that all participants RSVP. Upstream will provide the meal and drinks of all kinds may be purchased onsite.

Event Information & RSVP

Twin Cities Unsung Caretaker Event – October 7, 2026

RSVP Unsung Caretakers Twin Cities

RSVP by Sept. 24 2026

West Central Unsung Caretaker Event – October 21, 2026

RSVP Unsung Caretakers West Central

RSVP by Oct. 9, 2026