Meeting Needs
Strengthening Community

Located at 818 University Avenue, the Center for Community Impact is a warm, welcoming space open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Home to “The Gathering Place”, guests enjoy hot lunches, snacks, coffee, and conversation. It’s a hub for connection, encouragement, and access to essentials in a relaxed, judgment-free setting. Various organizations come in to educate guests about the resources available to them.

Clothing Closet & Hygiene Items Operation Love provides free clothing, winter gear, and hygiene items to anyone in need. Families can select up to three complete outfits per person per week, choosing what suits them best. We offer service in a clean, friendly environment because dignity should always come first. To donate to Operation, drop off clean items at the Center for Community Impact Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Meals Served & Food Shelf Through our soup kitchen, hot lunches are served Monday–Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Our food shelf (food pantry) is stocked with donated items like produce, bread, and pantry staples, though availability varies week to week. Everything is offered free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

We serve surrounding Native communities through regular visits to reservations in North and South Dakota, in partnership with churches on the reservations. Our outreach teams deliver meals, hygiene kits, spiritual care, and other essentials. Each year, we host a Winterwear Giveaway, distributing coats, boots, hats, and gloves to help families stay warm.

We support veterans year-round through meals, resources, and connection, and celebrate their service with our annual Vets in the Park event, where veterans gather for food, music, appreciation, and access to over 40 community organizations. We also offer personalized outreach and referrals to help local vets access local resources.

This project encourages local artisans and small business owners to use their creative talents to earn income and build stability. Inspired by a mission trip message that said, “Your money is in your hands,” it offers vendor events, open mic nights, and access to Creative Purpose Collective, where people can create, sell, and grow.

The Grand Forks Cultural Group hosts community cultural events throughout the year that celebrate diversity and bring people together. From international food nights to music, games, and storytelling, each gathering is designed to build friendships, share traditions, and create a welcoming space for all backgrounds.