What Hastings Is Talking About Today (Non‑profits Edition ▲ August 5, 2025)
Hastings Family Service shares that the school supply sign-up is now open! Families can reserve a convenient pick-up time from August 19 through August 22 to ensure they receive the necessary supplies for the upcoming school year.
Summer is humming and so are the stories around town! From hockey camps and recovery groups to free concerts and school supply drives, Hastings’ nonprofit community is buzzing with activity. Grab your iced coffee and let’s catch up on what everyone’s talking about today.
Sports & Youth Programs
Camp favorites and a local fast‑food hero
United Heroes League’s popular military kids’ camp is back and the youngsters can’t stop raving about their favorite parts – hanging out with friends, playing hockey and mastering dry‑land drills. An extra slice of gratitude goes to Arby’s, which donated lunch to keep the athletes energized. Program leaders remind us that community donations keep these opportunities going.
👉 Link: United Heroes League camp update
A safe space for young people to recover
Rise Up Recovery invites anyone 24 years or younger to its weekly All Recovery Group, held Fridays at 3 p.m. It’s a welcoming space for youth in recovery or simply curious about healing; participants share stories, support each other and discover they’re not alone. If you know a young person who could use a supportive community, let them know about this free group.
👉 Link: All Recovery Group
Warrior camp brings Army living and skating to Camp Ripley
The 2025 UHL Warrior Camp is underway. Military kids from across the country are bunking at Minnesota’s Camp Ripley, learning about Army life and sharpening their skating skills at the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center. Organizers encourage supporters to follow along as the campers build confidence and lifelong friendships.
👉 Link: Warrior Camp details
Baseball skills camp with the Twins
United Heroes League and the Minnesota Twins have teamed up to offer a Special Baseball Skills Camp on Saturday, August 16. Professional coaches will lead drills designed to help kids of all ages develop their skills, build confidence and simply enjoy America’s pastime. The camp runs 10 a.m.–noon at St Thomas Academy in Mendota Heights; space is limited, so families are urged to register soon.
👉 Link: Baseball skills camp
Community Events
Festival on the River promises free fun and music
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 16: the Hastings Area Rotary Club is throwing its annual Festival on the River. The family‑friendly bash runs from noon to 8:30 p.m. and features live music and activities for all ages – all completely free. Bring lawn chairs, friends and your dancing shoes for one of the summer’s most anticipated gatherings.
👉 Link: Festival on the River
Recovery Roast celebrates community and healing
Rise Up Recovery is brewing up its 5th Annual Recovery Roast on Tuesday, September 10 at 4:30 p.m. in Levee Park. The event mixes live music with heartfelt testimonies, creating a supportive atmosphere for anyone touched by addiction. Organizers encourage families to bring lawn chairs and a sense of community spirit; after all, recovery is easier when we celebrate together.
👉 Link: Recovery Roast
Deals & Support
Buy one, get one free clothing sale
Looking to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank? Rivertown Treasures Hastings is offering a Buy One Get One Free promotion on men’s and women’s clothing. Purchase any item and get a second piece of equal or lesser value free (some exclusions apply). It’s a great excuse to treat yourself while supporting a local nonprofit thrift store.
👉 Link: BOGO clothing sale
A call to serve military families
While their parents serve our country, these families often need a helping hand. United Heroes League urges the community to watch a short video and consider donating to support military families. The post encourages readers to share, scan a QR code and “finish what we started”. Every contribution makes a difference for those who sacrifice so much.
👉 Link: Make a difference
Health & Education
Free or low‑cost vaccinations ahead of back‑to‑school
Parents, here’s an easy way to check vaccinations off your back‑to‑school list: Hastings Family Service is hosting a free or low‑cost vaccine clinic outside its Ramsey Street building until 5:30 p.m. It’s a convenient chance to get kids protected for the new school year. Swing by after work – no appointment necessary.
👉 Link: Vaccine clinic
Sign up for school supply pickup
School supply sign‑up is now open! Families can reserve a time slot to pick up supplies between August 19 and 22. Signing up early ensures there are enough backpacks, notebooks and pencils for every child. With the rising cost of classroom supplies, this program makes it easier to send kids back to school prepared and excited.
👉 Link: School supply registration
