As students return to classrooms this fall, Living Well is excited to welcome another year of student volunteers who help strengthen connections, create opportunities, and enrich the lives of the people we support.
Each year, students from partner high schools, colleges, and universities across Minnesota share their time, talents, and energy through volunteer service with Living Well. Whether participating individually, with a friend, in small groups, or as part of an entire class, student volunteers make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable real-world experience and building lasting relationships.
Our School Partners
During 2026, Living Well has been fortunate to partner with students from: Visitation School, Minnehaha Academy, Inver Hills Community College, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Metro State University, Normandale Community College, GAP School, Two Rivers High School, St. Thomas Academy and Minnesota State University, Mankato
Together, these students have contributed to projects and activities across our organization, helping create more opportunities for connection, learning, and inclusion.
Making an Impact Through Service
Student volunteers support Living Well in many different ways. Some spend time directly with the people we support through social and recreational activities such as music, games, creative arts and crafts, and community engagement opportunities. Others share specialized knowledge in areas such as dental hygiene, communication, and health education.
Many students also contribute behind the scenes through administrative and project-based work that supports departments such as Human Resources and Program Services. In addition, Living Well hosts internships in fields such as social work, psychology, human services, and kinesiology, providing students with opportunities to apply their skills while making a meaningful contribution to our mission.
For many students, volunteering begins as part of a class requirement or community service program. For some, however, it becomes much more.
Building Relationships That Last
One of those volunteers is Catherine Breyen, who first became involved with Living Well while she was in high school and continues to volunteer today. Catherine says, “Volunteering at Living Well has taught me that meaningful relationships are built through consistency, presence, and taking the time to truly know someone. Over the years, I have grown closer with the people I serve, and their friendship has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life.”
Similarly, volunteer Kayla Tucker discovered that her experience helped shape her future goals. She adds, “Volunteering with Living Well when I was in college strengthened my ‘why’ of going to school as a pre-med student, which is to serve others in my community!”
Many student volunteers continue their involvement long after their service requirements are complete. Some become ongoing volunteers, while others choose to apply for positions as Direct Support Professionals, continuing their commitment to inclusion and community connection.
Partnerships That Create Lasting Learning
The impact of student volunteering extends beyond Living Well. Educational partners consistently share how valuable these experiences are for their students.
“We are so grateful for the ways you and your staff supported Minnehaha Academy students during this year’s Community Formation Experience. Your partnership plays a vital role in forming the next generation of leaders. During our Reflection Day, it was powerful to hear firsthand how much our students grew because of your mentorship,” reports Rachel Knight, Core Formation Experience Coordinator, Minnehaha Academy
Within Living Well, staff members also see the difference student volunteers make every day. Beth Tollefson, Senior Director of Program Services, is always impressed and says, “We are incredibly fortunate to have student volunteers supporting a variety of projects and special events across our organization. Their contributions have enhanced opportunities for the people we support in many meaningful ways, from improving systems and processes to leading engaging activities and creating new learning experiences. It is inspiring to see the positive impact these students make, not only through their service but also through the relationships they build. Watching students learn alongside the people we support highlights the value of inclusion, shared experiences, and community connection. We are grateful for their enthusiasm, dedication, and the difference they make each day.”
As we begin a new school year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to every student volunteer, educator, school partner, internship supervisor, and staff member who helps make these experiences possible. Your commitment to service, inclusion, and community connection continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we support.
Contact Kathy Anderson, Volunteer Program Manager, at Kathy.anderson@livingwell.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
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