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 a community engagement and improvement tool.
There are currently 750 such trails across the nation, but none are in Minnesota north of Elbow Lake - yet.
United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) is working with the City of Baudette to install its first Born Learning Trail in its service area.
“Installing these trails throughout our service area has been a longtime goal of mine,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. “I’m thrilled that we are making it happen, and even more thrilled to be starting in Baudette.”
UWNEMN Education & Childhood Programs Specialist Sarah Gardeski presented to the Baudette City Council about the trail at the March 10 council meeting, and the installation date has been set for August 7.
“This will be a great addition to the community for anyone and everyone who uses our trail,” said Mayor Dylan Hancharyk.
UWNEMN will now begin recruiting volunteers and fundraising to purchase the signs, tools, paint, and other materials needed to make the Baudette Born Learning Trail a reality. The organization is recruiting up to 30 volunteers: four to six volunteers to install signs, and another two to three volunteers per sign to paint accompanying artwork using stencils. All materials for this project will be provided.
Local businesses and organizations can help purchase signs and other needed materials to support the installation of the trail by contacting elizabeth@unitedwaynemn.org. Supporters have the opportunity to add their name or logo to the Born Learning Trail signs if they confirm their support by June 30.
“90 percent of our brains develop before age five,” said UWNEMN Education & Childhood Programs Specialist Sarah Gardeski. “Community support of a Born Learning Trail lays the foundation for lifelong success of generations to come.”