The Lend A Hand Up Story
Where Our Story Begins
A serious illness or unexpected hardship can change everything. For those facing a crisis like this, it can mean overwhelming medical bills, missed work, travel for treatment, and uncertainty about what comes next.
The financial burden often stretches far beyond healthcare costs, making it difficult to focus on what matters most—moving forward.
In 2008, we saw those challenges firsthand and asked a simple question:
What if communities had an easier way to help?
The answer became Lend A Hand Up, a nonprofit fundraising platform that helps people facing medical hardship, trauma, or loss receive support from the people who care about them most. Through online fundraisers, community benefits, and personal guidance, we make it easier for neighbors, friends, businesses, and entire communities to rally around someone in need.
We saw a need for a fundraising platform that added to people's generosity instead of taking away from it. That's why eligible online donations through Lend A Hand Up receive a 20% boost—up to $5,000 per fundraiser—helping every gift go even further for the people we serve.
For nearly 20 years, that simple idea has grown into thousands of acts of kindness, millions of dollars in support, and countless reminders that no one should have to face life's hardest moments alone.
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Our team works hand in hand with the people who step up to help someone they care about. Together, we help generosity go further and remind families they don’t have to face hardship alone.
— Jeana Peinovich
Director of Lend A Hand Up
A Story That’s Still Growing
What began as one simple idea has grown into thousands of moments of hope. Together with our supporters, volunteers, and partners, we've helped families across North Dakota and northwest Minnesota find financial relief when they needed it most.
900+
Families Supported
$20 Million
Raised for Families
Serving Our Communities
Since 2008
20% Boost
Added to Every Eligible Fundraiser
Built on a Simple Belief
Dakota Medical Foundation started Lend A Hand Up to give communities a trusted way to support people during difficult times. Built on the belief that neighbors helping neighbors creates stronger communities.
By supporting Lend A Hand Up, the Dakota Medical Foundation invests in more than fundraising. It invests in hope, resilience, and community.
Together, We Make a Bigger Difference
Thank you to our community partners for helping make every act of generosity go even further.
