Community Block Parties
In summers of 2024 and 2025, Engage Winona and our community partners came together to host three free, fun block parties across the city. These events weren’t just about fun (though there was plenty of that). They created opportunities for civic engagement, connection, and community building—with food, music, games, and neighbors all in the mix.
Each event was co-hosted with community partners, including Let’s Erase the Stigma, Our Voices, The Joy Labs, and the City of Winona. Together, we built trust, shared resources, and deepened our collective impact.
More than 30 nonprofits and community groups participated at each party, sharing their work, inviting residents into leadership, and strengthening ties across neighborhoods. The League of Women Voters (Winona chapter) helped folks get registered to vote and plugged into ways to make their voices heard.
And now, we’re doing it again in 2026.
This summer’s block parties will build on everything we sparked in past years—with fresh energy, new partners, and even more ways to get involved. If you want to connect, organize, share resources, or just show up for your community, this event is for you!
Thank you to the Winona Rotary Club, The Eagles Club of Winona, The Joy Labs, United Way of Southeast Minnesota and the Impact Center for their generous sponsorship of this series!
By the numbers
3 block parties hosted over the summer in different neighborhoods across the community
30 non-profits participated at each event
500+ attendees engaged across all three gatherings
Voter information was shared with communities that typically have lower turnout, helping to raise awareness and encourage civic participation.
"We reached people that wouldn't normally vote or weren't educated on where to vote.”
- League of Women Voters of Winona County
In the news
The "Leadership is for Everyone" block parties drew notable attention, both locally and across the state. Media coverage highlighted Engage Winona’s approach to fostering community connections and empowering local residents. By bringing together such a diverse group of Winonans, the events underscored the importance of cultivating community leadership and support.
