United Way's Action Day expands to Target Field

A first-of-its-kind free concert and back-to-school volunteer event is expected to draw thousands to Target Field Thursday evening.

The Minnesota Twins, on the road in Kansas City, have loaned their home field to Greater Twin Cities United Way for its 6th Annual Action Day.

In the past, the annual event has been a fairly quiet midday affair at a series of smaller venues attracting mostly a business crowd.

This year, it's going to feel like a party.

Thousands of volunteers, jamming to a DJ, will fill 9,000 backpacks full of school supplies and snacks starting at 5 p.m. and then stick around for a live concert, games, prize giveaways and short inspirational speeches starting at 6:15 p.m.

The goal is to supply thousands of needy kids with back-to-school basics. And when the party's over, organizers hope they will have lit a fire under a new generation of volunteers.

"We're introducing them to volunteering," said United Way spokeswoman Marsha Pitts-Phillips.

"This is a family-friendly, fun event. We're humankind coming together making a difference in the community."

Crews have built a stage on third base, concession stands will be open and major league mascots — Viktor with the Vikings, Nordy with the Wild and TC Bear of the Twins — will work the crowd.

The first 2,500 volunteers will receive a pair of Twins tickets. All seven of Minnesota's major league franchises have donated prizes to the event.

Xcel Energy, Land O'Lakes and Wells Fargo made donations so United Way could buy the supplies and backpacks.

Those interested in volunteering are asked to preregister at www.gtcuw.org/actionday.

Shannon Prather • 612-673-4804