NEW ULM — Big Ideas, a non-profit, mobile learning lab that provides hands-on experiences to encourage curious learners to explore skilled trades career paths, is looking for new or gently-worn shoes.

Donated shoes must have intact soles and no holes. Donations are being accepted June 1 through July 31 to raise funds for equipment replacement and maintenance costs.

Big Ideas, 9 Minnesota St. N., will earn funds based on the total weight of shoes collected from Funds2Orgs.

All donated shoes will be redistributed through the Funds2ORgs network of micro-enterprise partners to help create, maintain and grow small businesses in developing countries with limited economic opportunities.

Shoe sales proceeds help provide food, clothing, housing, and educational opportunities for families around the world.

“We’re excited about our shoe drive fundraiser,” said Big Ideas Administrative Partner Shawna Sellner. “Most people have extra shoes in their closets they no longer use. By donating them, we can help support our equipment needs while creating economic opportunities for families in developing countries. It’s truly a win-win.”

Big Ideas promotes skilled trades by informing, inspiring, and connecting curious learners ages 13 through adulthood with career pathways and skilled trades professionals.

Through its mobile learning lab, Big Ideas delivers hands-on experiences featuring immersive, industry-level simulators and personalized instruction from experienced trades professionals.

New Ulm shoe drop off locations are in big, blue barrels near the Big Ideas alley door, Cash Wise and Hy-Vee Foods, Gallery 512, Runnings, United Prairie Bank, Frandsen Bank and the New Ulm Public Library. Sleepy Eye locations are Schutz Family Foods and Miller Sellner Implement.

For more information, visit https://bigideasusa.org.