Inspired
Rural Minnesota doctor sews a baby blanket for every newborn he delivers
Dr. Erik Bostrom of Aitkin isn't an obstetrician. But in rural hospitals, delivering babies is part of a family doctor's job. And for Bostrom, it's become his favorite part.
Inspired
Twin Cities-based movement gives retired men a place to talk, give back and feel valued
The Hopkins-based Men's Shed is part of an international movement to address growing concern about isolation and loneliness, particularly among men post-retirement.
Inspired
Tiny tattooed Torah becomes subject of Ed Asner-narrated film
"The Tattooed Torah" tells the story of a Torah small enough for a child to carry.
Inspired
California bodybuilder fights back from West Nile virus
The rare virus took Michael Rodriguez from a peak of health and professional success to a fight for his life.
Inspired
'It's a gift': Twin Cities nativity pageant gives adults with disabilities chance to shine
For 25 years, the Rev. Don Anderson and his wife, Mary, of Anoka, have joined a committed troupe of volunteers to put on the pageant.
Inspired
Leadership means taking care of everyone
Wy Spano has studied, spoken and written about leadership throughout his professional life.
Inspired
In Minneapolis, Grandma Ruth, 108, remains a 'perpetual volunteer'
Ruth Knelman's mission of volunteerism began 65 years ago, when she, her late husband and young son moved to Minneapolis from North Dakota.
Inspired
Flamingos flock to their annual check-up
Zoo Miami's flamingos receive annual wellness exams and, aside from a little squawking, they seem to take to the treatment with a minimum of fuss.
Inspired
From city halls to State Capitol, Minnesota youths lead the charge on climate
Across Minnesota, students are springing into action to combat climate change — and pushing their local governments to do the same.
Inspired
Ann Bancroft Foundation's new director wants girls to dream big
She's only weeks into her role, but Katie Lauer has been preparing for the job much of her life.
Inspired
![Keren Gudeman lead a group of students during an improv class at United Community School. ] CARLOS GONZALEZ ï cgonzalez@startribune.com ñ November 1](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/AVX43EULQIFUOXGWR6W3VPAK6M.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
Improv Parenting takes center stage with upbeat, resilent message
It's a bit of a pushback to many of the driven, competitive, anxiety-ridden parenting styles batted around in pop culture today.
Inspired
Minnesota Children's Museum channels Mister Rogers with exhibit about kindness
The exhibit, which runs through Jan. 6, is "full of activities that help visitors reflect, connect and explore emotions in a positive way."
Inspired
A letter. A $100 bill. And a meeting that changed the lives of two young refugees
The brief encounter on a flight to the Twin Cities changed the lives of two sisters, former Yugoslavian refugees.
Inspired
From falafel to fattoush, resettled refugees cook up Syrian delights
The Rawas family is among a large population of refugees who, after fleeing a homeland overrun by violence and political turmoil, started a business in the United States.
Inspired
A grieving mother trains, swims a mile for her amazing daughter, Grace
Grace Bunke died on March 25, one day shy of her 15th birthday. Her mother, Vicki, knew she needed to honor a promise.
Inspired
Struggling with setting holiday expectations for your kids? Here's help
Marcia Alexander, a Thrivent financial adviser and mother of three boys, says this isn't just prime shopping season, it's prime teaching season.
Inspired
Laptop-controlled robot keeps ill 6th-grader learning with his peers
In September, a 40-pound Beam robot appeared on the scene at Central Middle School in Evergreen Park, Ill. Now 11-year-old Max Castillo can be part of classroom discussions from his home, and see and hear what teachers and his peers are doing.
Inspired
St. Thomas student brings supplies and support to new Gambian mothers
Fatoumata Jaiteh founded a nonprofit called "From Mother To You," which helps Gambian mothers get supplies and resources they need after they have a child.
Inspired
Minnesota families welcome the world into their home, one student at a time
By throwing open their homes — and hearts — these Twin Cities women have learned that the best way to expand their world is by welcoming young people from around the globe into it.
Inspired
On record Give to the Max Day, Minnesota charities reap millions in donations
Organizers of the 24-hour online giving marathon aim to beat last year's total of $20.6 million.
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