Patch Picks: Great Local Nonprofits

Usually when we roll out these weekly Patch Picks, we're trying to say what's best. This week, however, it seems more appropriate not to label any thing as "best," as nonprofits everywhere all do great work. Rather, this week's list is meant to highlight a handful of local nonprofits making a big difference, knowing full well there are countless others not on the list but that deserve recognition (on that note, we welcome you to add a nonprofit that fits this description to the comments below).

This list also falls in conjunction with a national Patch "Give 5" day, where editors across the country spend time volunteering in their communities. I spent part of my morning helping stock shelves in the St. Louis Park Emergency Program's warehouse. For more on STEP, click on the link in the list.

Five local nonprofits making a difference:

• St. Louis Park Community Foundation
• St. Louis Park Community Band
• Friends of the Arts
• St. Louis Park Rotary Club