The Family Resource Initiative is driven by a deep desire to lift up, support and connect with our neighbors in Eden Prairie and Hennepin County. We go beyond simply offering services; we strive to build genuine connections and a warm, caring environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.
Our community service programs are fueled by compassion and a commitment to making a real difference in Jesus’ name. We believe that every act of service—big or small—will ripple outward and create a more positive and connected community for all.
Community Teams
The Community Teams respond to requests from both our members and the broader local community, including individuals, families, and senior adults. Through our diverse capacities, team members actively make a tangible impact, embodying God’s love within Wooddale Church and throughout Hennepin County. We provide three avenues for meeting the needs of our neighbors and fostering a brighter future.
Helping Hands Crew
Do you find satisfaction in fixing things? Our one-time assistance helps tackle minor repairs and maintenance projects, such as window washing, light car maintenance or garden clean-up. Your prompt service (within seven days) will be much appreciated by those in need. Service could involve helping with errands, initial technology set-up or even window washing.
Community Response Team
Help families and individuals referred by Hennepin County Social Services. This team acts as a bridge, connecting those facing challenges with appropriate resources and support. Your compassion and dedication can make a real difference in their lives. Responders use CarePortal, a barrier-breaking technology that connects and helps to respond to children and families in crisis by providing basic material needs such as sheets, car seats, clothing, beds, etc.
Wooddale Church Member Response Team
This team aims to enhance connections and extend God’s love to Wooddale members who may not have access to social services. Through providing essential material necessities like clothing and household items, they fortify relationships within our community. Additionally, they utilize CarePortal, a technology platform, to discreetly offer support to church members in need.
How to volunteer for a Community Team
By volunteering to join a Community Team, you are showing your commitment to serving your community and tangibly sharing God’s love. To become a volunteer partner with Helping Hands Crew, Community Responder Team or Wooddale Church Member Needs Team, you must apply with the Family Resource Initiative through Wooddale Church. On the second page of the application, select “Family Resource Initiative” to choose which team(s) you are interested in.
- Helping Hands Crew Team volunteer opportunities are varied depending on individual skills. Please fill out a Wooddale Volunteer Serving Form to initiate an eventual interview conversation.
- Community Response Team & Church Member Needs Team volunteer opportunities include Material Needs Receivers, Delivery Coordinators, Prayer Partners, Encouragers for the social workers, Material Needs providers, Material Needs Deliverers and more.
Please fill out a volunteer application. We will be in contact with you after we receive your application.
Clothing Closet
The Clothing Closet, located at Wooddale Church, is a source of hope and support for families in need within the Eden Prairie community. Through an Eden Prairie School District voucher system, it offers new seasonal clothing items at no cost, ensuring that no child or adult faces the elements unprotected. From warm coats, boots and outerwear to shoes and other essential garments, the Clothing Closet is stocked with a diverse range of sizes.
The Clothing Closet aims to offer tangible support while nurturing dignity and self-esteem for individuals facing difficult circumstances. Every garment finding a new owner represents compassion and dedication to ensuring all members of the Eden Prairie community experience care and worthiness.
If you have questions about obtaining clothes, donating clothes, volunteering, etc., contact at 952.944.6300 or by email.
Become a Clothing Closet volunteer
You can make a gospel impact by volunteering with the Clothing Closet. Volunteer opportunities include inventory clerk, stocking clerk, clothing assistant and shoppers. To volunteer with the Clothing Closet, please fill out an application. We will be in contact with you after we receive your application. On the second page of the application, select “Family Resource Initiative” to choose which team(s) you are interested in.
Clothing Closet Hours
April & May, 2024
Wednesdays: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
September 2024 – January 2025
Wednesdays & Thursdays: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Location
Wooddale Church
6630 Shady Oak Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
(Enter through door 5)
Phone: 952.944.6300