A new survey by the Center for Democracy and Citizenship at Augsburg College ranks Minnesota number one in civic engagement.News 12's Erin Reed spoke with local organizations about how that Minnesota nice is translating in the Great Mankato area.When it comes to getting involved Minnesota doesn't just talk the talk, they walk the walk....So when a study at Augsburg College ranked Minnesota number one for civic engagement it didn't take the Mankato area by surprise.Jonathan Zierdt says, "We've always said we're not going to just let tomorrow happen, we want to help make tomorrow be the kind of tomorrow we want it to be. So taken in that light it doesn't surprise me because that's the way we go about working."It's that community driven work ethic that keeps the Mankato area thriving.The Greater Mankato United Way reported hundreds of volunteers logged over 400 thousand hours in different programs it supports.Strengthening not only its organization but also the entire community.Laura Bowman, President of Greater Mankato Area United Way says, "I volunteered my whole life, and I know that volunteering you get as much out of it as you give. And a lot of times you get more than you feel like you've ever given. So I absolutely believe it strengthens our community for people to volunteer."Minnesota may rank number one but that doesn't mean others shouldn't step up and keep the good works coming.Jonathan says, "It also might say we've done such a good job, are there any more volunteers out there? But the reality is that there are plenty. There are plenty of people looking for the right opportunity for the way they can get involved."News 12's Erin Reed says, "If you're one of the people still looking for how you can help out, the United Way has a website called Volunteer Solutions that can connect you and your talents to almost 100 organizations in the area."Laura says, "If you want to volunteer with older adults you can simply type that in. If you're looking for a specific date you can type that in and see what's going on that day."With the holidays just around the corner now is a great time get out and do your part of keep Minnesota at the top of the list.In Mankato Erin Reed, News 12.A link has been set up at our website for those who are looking to volunteer.Just go to KEYC dot TV and click on Featured Links.







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