Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney has issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, as Giving Hearts Day to recognize the 24-hour fundraising event for organizations in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota.
The mayor's proclamation encourages support for Giving Hearts Day by volunteering or donating to any of the numerous local organizations participating in the event. In honor of Giving Hearts Day, Fargo City Hall and the Spirit of the Sandbagger monument will be lit red on the evenings of February 7 and 8.
“I know this is a generous community, so I challenge all of you to find a way to give on Giving Hearts Day whether it is financial or your time,” Mayor Mahoney stated.
Among the hundreds of Giving Hearts Day charities and organizations to consider supporting are two City of Fargo causes: The Fargo Police Department’s Badges of Unity Fund and the Gladys Ray Shelter.
The Badges of Unity Fund is accepting donations to help send FPD personnel to Washington, D.C., in May 2024 for National Police Week to honor fallen FPD Officer Jake Wallin. Department representatives will take part in the Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service. During the service, Officer Wallin’s name will be inscribed onto the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
The Gladys Ray Shelter is accepting donations to help address the barriers an individual experiencing homelessness may have to securing housing. This will help Gladys Ray staff move shelter guests into permanent housing as quickly as possible. On average throughout 2023, one former guest of the Gladys Ray Shelter moved into permanent housing each week.
To learn more about the Badges of Unity Fund and Gladys Ray Shelter and where to donate, visit FargoND.gov/GivingHearts.