Events, Volunteering and Community for Everyone
Looking to meet people, try something new, or just feel more connected? You're not alone — and New Ulm has plenty of ways to help you get involved, feel welcome, and enjoy what our community has to offer.
New Ulm Is Full of Friendly Faces
Whether you're new to town, recently retired, living alone or just looking to meet more local people, we believe small steps can lead to big connections. Whether you’re ready to jump in or just exploring what’s out there — we’re glad you’re here. Because feeling part of something matters. And there’s a place for you in New Ulm.
Move This Way at North Park!
Have you seen the colorful sidewalk art visible at North Park (1801 N. State St.)? The Heart of New Ulm (HONU) welcomes everyone in the community to head out and explore it through an activity called Move This Way. The activity provides a creative opportunity for people of all ages to be active, talk, think and learn about topics related to their physical, mental and social well-being. We encourage people to grab a friend or family member and stop by the park anytime during daylight hours for some fun!
There are eight different stations. Follow the prompts for each station and then use the questions to spark discussion. Here are the instructions for each station:
Local Events to Check Out
Fun, free, and friendly — events are a great way to explore what’s happening in New Ulm and meet new people along the way.
👉 New Ulm Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar
👉 City of New Ulm Community and Park & Rec Calendar
👉 New Ulm Public Library Programs
👉 New Ulm Events
👉 Community Education Classes and Activities
New here? Try a community concert, cooking class or historical tour — great low-pressure ways to meet people.
Things You Can Try Today
👉 Take a 10-minute walk outside.
👉 Close your eyes and take 10 slow deep breaths.
👉 Call or text a friend, family member or acquaintance just to say "hello."
👉 Think about a time you felt connected to the people around you. Were you with someone you could reach out to again? Were you doing an activity you could revisit?
👉 Write a short note of appreciation. Send a quick email or sticky note to someone who made a difference in your day or week.
👉 Do something kind for someone else — Hold the door or offer a compliment.
👉 Listen to music that lifts your mood — Bonus: share a favorite song with someone and ask what they’re listening to lately.
👉 Unplug for 30 minutes — Read, doodle, stretch or just sit quietly.
Volunteer and Make Connections
Volunteering is one of 
the best ways to connect with others while doing something meaningful. Most opportunities are flexible and open to all ages and experience levels.
👉 Local nonprofits
👉 Oak Hills Senior Living Center – Brighten Residents' Lives
👉 NUMAS Haus – Help Families in Need
👉 New Ulm Medical Center Volunteering
👉 Pro Kinship Mentoring – Provide Support to Youth
👉 Brown County Humane Society Volunteering
👉 New Ulm Young Professionals
👉 Heart of New Ulm Action Team Volunteering
New Ulm is home to many active service clubs that welcome new members of all ages. These clubs offer ways to serve, lead, and build lasting friendships. Explore local service clubs
Learn more: Fight social isolation through volunteering
Quick Ideas to Feel More Connected
👉 Visit a local farmers market or craft fair.
👉 Join a fitness or walking group.
👉 Attend a live music night or trivia night.
👉 Sign up for a community class.
👉 Volunteer at a one-time event or festival.
👉 Bring a friend or neighbor with you!
Did You Know?
The American Heart Association recognizes social isolation and loneliness as key factors affecting brain and heart health.
Social isolation and loneliness can increase blood pressure and inflammation, worsening existing conditions and raising the risk of chronic illness and infections.
Even small steps to increase or strengthen social connection can improve immune response and lower disease risk.
The protective benefits of social connection start early and last throughout life.
Almost half of adults report feeling lonely sometimes and one-third of young adults report feeling lonely often.
Spending 10 minutes outside or short breathing exercises can improve feelings of social isolation.
Want to Make a Difference?
Send us a message and we'll help you connect to an initiative that interests you!