Why Should You Vote?

September 15, 2020

 Today, most Americans over the age of 18 are qualified to vote. Unfortunately, of those qualified to vote, on average only sixty percent of individuals actually do. Voting is one of the key freedoms of being an American. Many people in countries around the world do not have the right to vote, nor did many Americans in decades past. This year celebrates one hundred years since women gained the right to vote. And it wasn’t until 1965 that the Voting Rights Act was signed into law, prohibiting discriminatory practices against African Americans at the polls. That was only fifty five years ago.

 People have died defending the right to vote. So, if so many people fought to have their voices heard and the ability to vote, why do we see such low voter turnout? Simply put, people believe that their voice doesn’t matter. I often hear people say, “It doesn’t pay, it’s not like my one vote is going to really count.” And if you have ever had that thought, I urge you to consider the presidential election of 2000. That year, Al Gore narrowly lost to George W. Bush. The election came down to a recount in Florida. When all was said and done, Bush won by only 537 votes. If 600 more Al Gore supporters would have went to the polls we would have had an entirely different president. You can truly make a difference. Your vote matters! By voting you are playing a role in choosing our leaders and ultimately changing our laws.

 When you vote, you get the opportunity to stand up for the issues that you care about. It’s up to you to choose a candidate who you feel can help your community, state, and even the nation for the greater good. If you don’t vote, someone else will make the decision for you. Exercising your right to vote is the only way to ensure that your voice is being heard. Do your homework and research the candidates and issues in your area. Read up on political issues and figure out where you stand. If you’re feeling inspired to do more, write letters to public officials and let them know what is important to you. Or, it can be as simple as having respectful dialogue with others in your community. At the end of the day, no matter what you believe or whom you support, it is important to exercise your rights.

 Need information on how to register to vote? Visit https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/ for more information on how and where to vote in your area.

Our Recent News

New Hot/Cold Truck Strengthens Meals on Wheels Service in Wright County

By Brittany Hoversten • September 8, 2026
Catholic Charities is expanding its ability to serve older adults across Wright County with the addition of a new hot/cold delivery truck, made possible through funding from the Central Minnesota Council on Aging (CMCOA) and generous community support. The investment will help strengthen and grow Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining services, ensuring nutritious meals reach more seniors safely and efficiently. As the demand for nutritious meal services continues to rise, reliable transportation plays a critical role in connecting older adults with the food they depend on every day. The new truck improves the delivery process by transporting meals from Catholic Charities' production kitchens to community meal sites and home-delivered meal routes throughout the region. Designed with separate heated and refrigerated compartments, the vehicle allows staff to transport hot, fresh meals and frozen meals at the same time while maintaining strict food safety standards. The truck's specialized design ensures meals arrive at the proper temperature, preserving both quality and safety for those receiving them. The vehicle can carry hundreds of meals daily, significantly increasing delivery capacity and operational efficiency. Before the addition of the truck, meals were transported using insulated hot and cold bags, requiring additional handling and limiting the number of meals that could be delivered on each route. Today, hot meals leave the kitchen at approximately 180 degrees and maintain safe temperatures throughout transport, arriving at the recommended serving temperature of 165 degrees. Frozen and refrigerated meals are delivered below 40 degrees, allowing recipients to safely store them upon arrival. The impact extends beyond meal quality. Staff and volunteers now spend less time loading, unloading, and managing insulated bags, allowing them to focus more on serving clients and ensuring deliveries are completed safely and on time. Meals are delivery-ready when the truck arrives at outreach locations, creating a more streamlined process that benefits everyone involved. "Food access for rural seniors continues to be a growing concern," said Stacy Lund, Program Director. "The truck will provide opportunities for Catholic Charities to continue service in our rural communities as operational funding and resources become more limited while community need continues to increase." More than just a vehicle, the new hot/cold truck represents an investment in the future of Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining services. It provides the infrastructure needed to meet growing demand, expand service opportunities, and support older adults who rely on these programs to remain healthy, independent, and connected to their communities. In a fitting tribute, staff have named the truck Grace in honor of Sister Grace, a beloved former employee whose legacy of service continues to inspire the organization's mission today. Like its namesake, Grace will help deliver not only nutritious meals, but also the caring connections that make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults across Central Minnesota. About Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Catholic Charities' Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining programs provide nutritious meals and meaningful social connections for older adults throughout Central Minnesota. Through home-delivered and congregate meal services, the programs help individuals maintain their independence, improve food security, and remain connected to their communities. The addition of Grace ensures Catholic Charities can continue advancing that mission for years to come.

The Difference a Volunteer Can Make

By Brittany Hoversten • September 2, 2026
If you've spent time with Brian Woods, you've probably heard a great story.

Family Volunteers Bring Hope to Our Community

By Brittany Hoversten • June 16, 2026
At Catholic Charities, we are blessed to witness moments that reveal the true spirit of community. During a recent visit to our St. Cloud Senior Dining program, our team saw one of those moments firsthand. Grandpa Ray and his grandson, Noah, were preparing to deliver meals—a routine that has become a treasured family tradition. Ray often brings all three of his grandsons, turning service into something that strengthens their bond while uplifting others. Our Senior Dining Coordinator, Kim, shared that Ray and his grandkids have become a bright spot for many of the neighbors we serve. For those receiving meals, it’s not just about nutrition. It’s the warmth of a familiar smile, the energy of young people at the door, and the reminder that they are seen and cared for. This simple act of delivering meals shows the power of serving together—building community, connection, and hope one doorstep at a time. We depend on volunteers like Ray—and like you—to bring compassion to our neighbors. If you feel called to serve, explore our volunteer opportunities, including meal delivery and family volunteering. Your kindness could be the moment someone looks forward to each day. Make an impact and volunteer with us!