Giving Hearts Day began in 2008 as a simple yet powerful fundraising idea: around Valentine’s Day, encourage people to show love not only to those closest to them, but also to the charities that strengthen their communities.

More than a decade later, the concept has grown into one of the longest-running and most successful giving days in the nation. Giving Hearts Day provides a vital fundraising platform for nonprofits across North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, helping organizations collectively raise more than $226 million since its launch.

It’s not just a day, though. It’s a year-round effort. Using skills taught by Dakota Medical Foundation and Fargo-based Impact, participating charities build sustainable fundraising systems that support their missions all year long. Those systems are then put into action on Giving Hearts Day, often described as the “Super Bowl” of giving in the Upper Midwest.

Over time, Giving Hearts Day has become the region’s dedicated day to feed the hungry, nurture the elderly, and educate tomorrow’s leaders. What started as a single day of generosity has evolved into a tradition that showcases the lasting power of community, collaboration, and compassion. Give locally today!