United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN)’s first Born Learning Trail on the Iron Range was installed along Longyear Lake Park in June during UWNEMN’s Day of Action, and this month the organization brought together the supporters who made the trail possible to see the finished product during an official ribbon cutting.
United Way organizations across the United States utilize Born Learning Trails – a series of 10 interactive signs that transform everyday moments into fun and engaging learning opportunities for young children – as community engagement and improvement tools.
Until recently, there were no such trails north of Cloquet. UWNEMN’s first Born Learning Trail was installed last summer in Baudette.
“Installing these trails throughout our service area has been a longtime goal of mine,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. “It feels fitting that our first Iron Range trail was installed in our backyard in Chisholm this year as we celebrate our organization’s 60th anniversary.”
Financial support for the Chisholm trail was provided by Chisholm Community Foundation, Chisholm Lions Club, Kiwanis Club of Chisholm, and Park State Bank.
"Supporting the Born Learning Trail was an easy decision for Park State Bank because it's an investment in the children and families of our community,” said Park State Bank Market President Tom Bartovich. “As a community bank, we're proud to support projects that create opportunities for local families, and this trail does exactly that."
The trail aligned with Chisholm Kiwanis Club’s mission to make a difference for kids and the community, said Club President Shelly Lappi.
“We love being able to support something that gets families outside, learning, playing, and spending time together,” she said. “It’s a simple idea that can have a really positive impact, and we’re excited to see families enjoying it.”
Trail signage was installed by the City of Chisholm during June’s Day of Action, and images were painted using stencils by student council volunteers as well as sponsors. In addition to supporting the project and volunteering to paint the trail, Chisholm Lions Club has adopted the trail and has committed to maintain it.
“Our club has several members with backgrounds in early childhood education, along with many who are parents themselves, so we understand how important learning through play is for young children,” said Chisholm Lions Club Secretary Bailee Koehler. “Having the opportunity to help create the trail and then seeing the finished product made us even more excited to adopt it and help ensure it remains a part of our community for years to come.”