Supporting organizations like ARRR is at the heart of Weidner Cares, our annual company-wide philanthropic program held in each of our regions. Each year, we close our doors for a full workday so associates can dedicate their time and talents to giving back to the communities where we live and work. By putting our teams’ skills and experience to work, we can make meaningful improvements for nonprofit and community-focused organizations in just one day.

Throughout the day, our associates spread out across the ranch to tackle a variety of projects. One team dismantled and reassembled a cat-io while improving its fencing to create a more secure outdoor space for the ranch’s cats. Another team gave the pig barn a fresh coat of exterior paint, while other associates worked in the cat shop and mezzanine and helped with cleanup and organization throughout the property.

The day also gave our associates an opportunity to put the skills they use every day at Weidner to work in a new setting. From construction and fencing to painting, organizing, and general property improvements, each project helped create more functional and welcoming spaces for the animals and the people who care for them.

Thank you to ARRR Rescue and Retirement Ranch for welcoming our team and allowing us to support the important work you do. And thank you to every North Dakota associate who brought their time, skills, energy, and Weidner spirit to the project.
 

Visit our Weidner Cares website to learn more about our philanthropy program and see the other incredible projects Team Weidner has brought to life for our communities!

The post Weidner Cares 2026: North Dakota appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

Some of the most memorable experiences can be found in the places you might otherwise pass by. A family-run restaurant, a specialty shop downtown, a quiet park, or a historic site can tell you just as much about a community as its major attractions. These are the kinds of places that give Williston its local personality and make exploring the city feel like uncovering something of your own.

If you're new to Williston or simply ready to see the city from a different perspective, start with these local hidden gems.

Uncover One-of-a-Kind Bites

One of the easiest ways to get to know a community is through its food. Williston's restaurant scene has plenty of personality, from Hawaiian-inspired dishes to classic American comfort food and hearty diner favorites.

Hula's Fire Grill brings a taste of the islands to northwestern North Dakota with a Hawaiian-inspired menu and generous portions. Its location near Recreation Park makes it an easy stop after spending time outdoors. Order a meal, settle into the laid-back atmosphere, and enjoy something a little different from the usual restaurant fare.

For a taste of local Williston, Williston Brewing Company is another place worth checking out. The restaurant serves a wide-ranging menu of steaks, burgers, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and more, making it an easy choice when everyone in your group wants something different. Its relaxed atmosphere also makes it a natural spot for catching up with friends over a meal.

If breakfast is more your style, Lonnie's Roadhouse Cafe offers a casual dining experience that feels right at home in a close-knit community. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch, so there's plenty of opportunity to stop in for a hearty meal and get a taste of the Billy Bob Burger, a local favorite.

Explore Downtown Williston's Unique Local Businesses

Downtown is where you'll find some of the small businesses that give Williston its character. Instead of browsing the same stores you can find anywhere, spend an afternoon looking for something with a distinctly local connection.

Cooks on Main is a must-see for anyone who enjoys cooking, baking, or entertaining. The specialty shop carries cookware, kitchen tools, gourmet foods, and other supplies, along with products from North Dakota makers. Its Culinary Center also offers cooking classes, making the store the perfect place to pick up a new skill and meet other local food enthusiasts.

The Main Street Market is another way to experience the local side of downtown. The seasonal market brings together vendors offering homemade and homegrown goods, food, specialty products, and handcrafted items. It's a chance to support small businesses, find something you won't see on a typical store shelf, and enjoy a relaxed morning downtown.

Book lovers can browse Books on Broadway for their next read, while antique hunters can spend some time searching for unexpected finds at Larry Lane Antiques. These smaller shops are exactly the kind of places that make exploring a downtown area rewarding. You never quite know what you'll find!

Get Outside in Williston

Williston's location near the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers gives residents plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. You don't have to travel far from home to find a place for a picnic, a walk, a game, or an afternoon by the water.

Spring Lake Park is a local favorite for family outings. The park includes playgrounds, a fishing dock, a sand volleyball court, walking paths, picnic shelters, and an amphitheater. Bring a fishing pole, pack a picnic, or take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

For sports and family recreation, Dakota Park offers three baseball fields, batting cages, a playground, and accessible walking areas. It's an especially good spot to visit when a local game or family outing calls for some time outside.

Golfers can tee off at courses such as Eagle Ridge Golf Club and Fox Hills Golf Course, while anglers can explore fishing opportunities along the nearby Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers and at Lake Sakakawea.

Step Back into Williston's History

Williston's story reaches much further back than its modern energy industry. Look a little closer, and you'll find historic sites that reveal how the region developed around the rivers, trade routes, and frontier communities.

The Frontier Museum offers a closer look at local history through artifacts and exhibits. The museum is currently open by appointment, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts who want to learn more about the people and stories behind Williston's past.

For a larger historical excursion, make the trip to Fort Buford State Historic Site, located about 22 miles southwest of Williston. Established in 1866 near the Missouri-Yellowstone confluence, Fort Buford served as an important military post on the northern plains. Today, visitors can see the original stone powder magazine, the post cemetery site, and the officers' quarters, which houses a museum. The site is also remembered as the place where Sitting Bull surrendered in 1881.

Make Williston Home

Part of what makes Williston special is that you don't have to look far to find something worth discovering. A new favorite restaurant might be around the corner, a quiet afternoon at the park might become part of your weekly routine, or a downtown shop might introduce you to a local maker you didn't know about.

If you're looking for a new home in Williston, Dakota Commons Apartment Homes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes in East Williston. Each home includes features such as spacious closets, in-unit laundry, stainless-steel appliances, and a personal parking garage. The pet-friendly community also offers controlled access, onsite laundry facilities, pet waste stations, and 24-hour emergency maintenance.

Located near local businesses, shopping, recreation, and major roadways, Dakota Commons puts you close to the places that make Williston worth exploring.

The post Hidden Gems in Williston, ND You’ll Love appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

If you love caring for plants or are simply looking for apartment patio decorating ideas, these tips can help you make the most of your outdoor living space.

Start with a Plan

Before purchasing furniture, décor, or plants, take a moment to assess your space and think about how you'd like to use it.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want to grow herbs, flowers, or vegetables?
• Will the space be used for relaxing, entertaining, or both?
• Are you creating a functional outdoor living space, a decorative retreat, or a combination of the two?

Creating a simple wishlist can help you prioritize what matters most while keeping your patio or balcony functional and uncluttered.

Choose Space-Saving Patio Furniture

The right furniture can make a small outdoor space feel comfortable without overwhelming it. Some good finds to look out for include compact options such as bistro tables, folding chairs, storage benches, and stackable seating.

Budget-friendly finds from thrift stores, garage sales, and consignment shops can add personality while helping you stay within budget. Plus, a fresh coat of paint or a few weather-resistant cushions can easily update older pieces!

Bring Your Garden Outdoors

One of the easiest ways to personalize an apartment patio or balcony is with plants.

Container gardening works well in small spaces and allows you to grow a variety of plants, including:

• Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary
• Colorful flowers
• Tomatoes and peppers
• Strawberries
• Succulents
• Dwarf fruit trees

Using containers of different heights can create visual interest while making the most of limited square footage.

Make the Most of Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, look up.

Vertical gardening solutions such as hanging baskets, tiered plant stands, shelves, and trellises can help you expand your plant collection without sacrificing room for seating or movement. This approach is especially useful for apartment balconies where every square foot matters.

Add Comfort with Color and Texture

Simple decorative touches can help your patio or balcony feel like a natural extension of your apartment home.

Outdoor rugs, weather-resistant pillows, decorative planters, and lanterns can instantly make the space feel warmer and more inviting. Choosing colors and materials that complement your interior décor can also create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

Create the Illusion of More Space

A small outdoor area can feel much larger with a few strategic design choices.

An outdoor-safe mirror can reflect natural light, making a compact patio or balcony feel more open. Position mirrors carefully to brighten the space while avoiding direct sunlight reflections.

It's also important to leave some open space. A less crowded layout often feels larger, more comfortable, and easier to enjoy.

Create a Relaxing Atmosphere with Lighting

The right lighting can completely transform your outdoor space after sunset.

Popular apartment-friendly lighting options include:

• String lights
• Solar lanterns
• Battery-operated candles
• LED outdoor lights

Soft lighting adds warmth and creates a welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing after a busy day.

Invite Nature In

Bird feeders and decorative birdhouses can attract local wildlife and bring even more life to your outdoor retreat. For easier maintenance, consider pre-shelled birdseed to minimize cleanup.

Remember: Review Your Community Guidelines

Before hanging planters, installing lights, or making other updates to your patio or balcony, review your community guidelines or check with your property management team. This can help ensure your décor complies with community policies and safety requirements.

Decorate Your Way at Roosevelt East in Williston, ND

Searching for apartments in Williston, ND, with private outdoor space? Roosevelt East offers spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes, each featuring a private patio or balcony, providing residents with extra room to relax and personalize their homes.

Conveniently located near shopping destinations, including Ashley Furniture and Walmart, Roosevelt East makes it easy to find furniture, plants, and décor to bring your outdoor vision to life.

Schedule a tour of Roosevelt East today and discover how a thoughtfully designed apartment home can help you create the perfect outdoor retreat!

The post Apartment Patio and Balcony Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Space appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

From scenic walking trails and community parks to indoor recreation centers and apartment fitness amenities, Williston makes it easy to build healthy habits that fit your schedule.

Explore Williston's Parks and Walking Trails

One of the easiest ways to become more active is by incorporating walking into your daily routine. Fortunately, Williston offers several parks and outdoor spaces where you can enjoy fresh air while getting your steps in.

Popular parks include:

• Dakota Park
• Davidson Park
• Harmon Park
• Moose Park
• Spring Lake Park

Spring Lake Park is a popular after-work spot for residents looking to unwind outdoors, especially thanks to its walking paths, bike trails, fishing opportunities, and dog park. If you're a pet owner, walking your dog each day is a simple way to increase activity without setting aside extra workout time.

Beginner Tip: Start with a 15-minute walk after dinner three times per week. Small habits are often easier to maintain than ambitious fitness goals.

Discover Biking Opportunities Around Williston

Looking for a low-impact workout that doesn't feel like exercise? Biking is a great option!

Williston's trail system offers routes suitable for a variety of skill levels, and nearby outdoor destinations provide even more opportunities to explore. Popular local spots include the 1.2-mile paved Spring Lake Loop, the multi-surface Cut Bluff Overlook, and the nearby 8.5-mile Fairview Bridge & Cartwright Tunnel Trail.

Beginner Tip: Replace one short car trip each week with a bike ride to a nearby park or local destination.

Stay Active Year-Round at the Williston ARC

North Dakota winters can make outdoor workouts challenging. That's where the Williston Area Recreation Center (ARC) comes in.

The ARC offers:

• Indoor walking and running spaces
• Fitness classes
• Personal training
• Tennis courts
• Aquatic facilities
• Youth and family programs

For newcomers, fitness classes can provide structure and accountability while introducing you to other community members with similar goals.

Beginner Tip: If you're not sure where to start, try attending one class per week and gradually build from there.

Find a Fitness Center That Matches Your Lifestyle

Williston offers a variety of fitness options, including traditional gyms, personal training studios, and group fitness programs.

For traditional gym-goers, facilities like Anytime Fitness offer 24-hour access, cardio equipment, strength-training areas, and personal training services. If you're looking for a more specialized fitness experience, Williston also offers several locally owned options:

• The Pitt is known for its hardcore strength-training atmosphere, unique equipment, supplement selection, and 24/7 access.
• Full Circle Strength Systems operates 24/7 and specializes in powerlifting and strongman training, offering a supportive, non-traditional gym environment.
• CrossFit Vokse provides experienced coaching and community-driven workouts, with classes available Monday through Saturday.

Enjoy Water Recreation During North Dakota Summers

When temperatures rise, many residents head outdoors to enjoy the Missouri River and surrounding waterways, such as the Missouri River Confluence Nature Trail and Lewis and Clark State Park.

Popular summer activities include:

• Fishing
• Boating
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Swimming
• Tubing

These activities provide excellent exercise while allowing you to enjoy North Dakota's scenic landscapes. Many people find that active hobbies feel less intimidating than traditional workouts, making them a great option for beginners.

Make Fitness More Convenient at Home

One of the biggest barriers to exercise is simply finding the time. Living in a community with built-in wellness amenities can make staying active significantly easier.

At Vue 28, residents enjoy access to amenities designed to support an active lifestyle, including a 24-hour fitness center. Having this option just steps from your apartment can help eliminate common obstacles like weather, commute time, and crowded facilities.

Create an Active Lifestyle in Williston

Living somewhere that makes fitness convenient can help you stay active year-round. At Vue 28 Apartments, residents enjoy access to an on-site fitness center and proximity to many of Williston's top recreational destinations.

Residents are approximately:

• About 5 minutes from Spring Lake Park's walking trails, bike paths, fishing areas, and dog park
• About 7 minutes from the Williston Area Recreation Center (ARC), which offers fitness classes, an indoor water park, cardio equipment, and sports programs
• About 8 minutes from Anytime Fitness, a 24-hour gym offering personal training, free weights, and group fitness options
• About 10 minutes from Eagle Ridge Golf Club
• A short drive from the Missouri River and nearby outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year

Working out at the gym, walking through the park, or spending time exploring the outdoors is all within easy reach at Vue 28. Schedule a tour today and discover how our spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes can support your active lifestyle in Williston, ND!

The post Ways to Stay Active in Williston, North Dakota: A Beginner-Friendly Guide appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

Moving can be a very positive experience, but it’s also listed among the Top 10 Life Stressors. Settling into your new apartment home in a new neighborhood, city, or country, combined with packing and unpacking, can feel like a lot to manage. Add the rising costs of moving, and the pressure can grow quickly. The good news is that a clear plan can help you feel more confident from day one. Here are some practical tips for keeping moving expenses under control and making your transition into your new apartment home as smooth and budget-friendly as possible.

Organize and donate first, then get to the packing

Consider a garage or yard sale to part with items you no longer need and make a little money in the process. The less you have to move, the easier it is on your back and your budget. Separate your belongings into 4 piles: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have a better idea of how many boxes you’ll actually need, which can help you avoid overbuying supplies.

Plan your moving budget

Do you have the budget to hire movers and packers? Great! If not, you’ll want to budget carefully for boxes, a moving truck, fuel, hired help, water, and snacks for your helpers and volunteers. It’s also smart to build your budget around a few quotes instead of one. Use a spreadsheet or moving budget app to compare estimates side by side, including hourly rates, travel fees, minimum hours, stair fees, packing materials, and insurance options. A detailed quote comparison makes it much easier to spot the best value and avoid surprise charges later.

A simple moving budget may include ranges like these:

• Boxes and basic packing supplies: about $50 to $250
• Rental truck and fuel for a local move: about $100 to $400+
• Labor-only moving help: about $200 to $800+
• Full-service local movers: about $400 to $2,500+
• Long-distance moves: often $2,000 to $8,000+, depending on mileage and volume
• Utility deposits, cleaning costs, and move-in fees: vary widely, but often several hundred dollars combined

A structured budget checklist can help you stay organized:

• Moving company or truck rental quote
• Mileage and fuel estimate
• Packing supplies and box costs
• Labor or tipping budget
• Insurance or protection coverage
• Utility setup or transfer fees
• Security deposit or move-in fees
• Cleaning supplies or cleaning service
• Food, water, and day-of essentials
• Pet care, boarding, or overnight accommodations
• Emergency cushion for last-minute costs

Save on boxes

Grocery stores and large supply stores are often used to people asking for extra boxes, and may be happy to pass them along. Be sure to check those boxes for any loose items before taking them home. If you prefer to purchase boxes, compare prices from several companies first. Some companies will even accept returns on unused boxes that are still in good condition.

If you buy new, small bundles may cost less upfront, but larger kits can sometimes offer better value per box. In many cases, box costs can range from around $1 to $4 per box, depending on size and strength. You can also check Craigslist and similar listing services for people who have recently moved and are ready to donate or sell gently used boxes. If you’re pricing supplies online, a simple comparison tool or notes app can help you track the cost per box bundle, delivery fees, and return policies.

Save on packing supplies

Use towels, blankets, sheets, and bulky clothing to wrap breakables. The more you can use what you already have, the less you’ll need to buy. Use what you have first, then purchase only what you still need from an office supply store, since storage supply stores are often more expensive. Also, don’t move empty containers. Use your food storage containers to transport spices and small kitchen items, and your suitcases to carry important documents and personal items. Leave your clothes in your dresser drawers when possible to reduce extra packing and unpacking.

If you do need to buy extras, items like tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and mattress bags can add up quickly. Even a modest packing supply run may cost $25 to $100 or more, so it helps to list exactly what you need before you shop.

Save on rental trucks

Check with each company for available discounts, including AAA, senior, veteran, or student discounts. Make sure to protect yourself when renting a moving truck by carefully reviewing insurance coverage options. It’s also a good idea to work with customer service to confirm you’re renting the right-sized truck for your belongings.

Before you book, compare rental truck quotes from multiple companies and review mileage fees, fuel policies, equipment rentals, and insurance costs. A low base rate does not always mean the lowest total moving cost. For many local moves, a truck rental may start around $20 to $40 per day, but the final price can climb significantly once mileage, fuel, taxes, dollies, furniture pads, and coverage are added.

Save on hired help and give back to local students

If you’re running out of friends who can help, consider local college students. Often, students advertise moving help services and are looking for extra income. They may be a helpful option when you need extra muscle. If you go this route, ask for a clear, written estimate and compare at least 2 or 3 labor-only quotes to understand what is included, how many helpers will arrive, and whether there are any extra fees.

Labor-only help is often more affordable than full-service movers, but rates still vary based on your area, the number of helpers, and how long the job takes. In many markets, you may see hourly pricing per helper or a team rate with a minimum number of hours.

Thinking of Moving to Williston, ND? Move to Confluence at Harvest Hills!

Planning a move to Williston, ND? Confluence at Harvest Hills offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes in the Harvest Hills neighborhood, giving you flexible options to fit your lifestyle. Residents enjoy convenient community amenities, including a BBQ grilling area, mud room, and on-site management and maintenance, so support is always close at hand. This pet-friendly community also has pet stations throughout the property, welcoming your furry friends. Inside each apartment, you’ll find practical features designed for everyday comfort, including an in-home washer and dryer, breakfast bars, double sinks, and easy-to-maintain wood-style flooring.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-located home in Williston, Confluence at Harvest Hills is well worth exploring. Whether you’re planning a local move or relocating from farther away, the leasing team is ready to help make the process feel simple and stress-free. Schedule a tour on the website today!

The post Save Money on Moving: Smart Budget Tips Before You Go appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

Here are 4 must-see outdoor destinations close by to Williston, North Dakota!

Lewis and Clark State Park

Set along the upper bays of Lake Sakakawea, Lewis and Clark State Park spans 525 scenic acres, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is perfect for campers, featuring two cozy seasonal cabins and more than 100 campsites. If you’re planning a day trip or family outing, take advantage of the marina, three picnic shelters, and an on-site dog park. Tread along the breathtaking views on the Couteau Trail (1.1 miles), Greenhorn Trail (1.43 miles), and Eskers Trail (2.6 miles). For even more adventure, you can rent bikes, kayaks, or snowshoes right in the park.

Little Egypt

Just 30 miles south of Ray, North Dakota, Little Egypt is a local favorite for relaxation and recreation. Lounge on sandy shores, set up camp for a night under the stars, or gather friends and family for a lakeside picnic. Anglers will appreciate the chance to reel in a walleye, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon just a short drive from Williston.

Killdeer Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Craving wide-open spaces? Head to the Killdeer Mountain Wildlife Management Area, sometimes called Killdeer Lake, where 26 square kilometers of tranquil wilderness await. This peaceful enclave is a haven for wildlife watchers, boasting rich greenery and two scenic mesas rising over the Platte River Basin. As you wander the trails, keep your eyes peeled for namesake killdeer birds, mule deer, and ring-necked pheasants.

Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center

If you’re inspired by history and nature, the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center is a must-see. This unique stop marks the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers, a place where people have gathered for thousands of years. You’ll stand in the same spot that amazed Lewis and Clark back in 1805, while panoramic vistas capture the natural beauty of the rivers’ embrace. Inside, immerse yourself in local history with vibrant murals, stunning river paintings, and a fascinating exhibit dedicated to Sitting Bull. Explore the walking trails, enjoy a picnic, and don’t forget to browse the Museum Store before you leave!

Come Live at Williston Garden Apartments

Looking for a home that puts you close to all these outdoor treasures? Discover Williston Garden Apartments!

Select from pet-friendly one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, each designed with your comfort in mind, featuring air conditioning, private patios, and generous walk-in closets. Community amenities make it easy to unwind or stay active, featuring a 24-hour fitness center, playground, billiards table, and inviting community room.

Embrace the spirit of adventure and community in Williston. Schedule your tour of Williston Garden Apartments today and get ready to experience the great outdoors, just steps from your front door!

The post Top 4 Must-See Williston, ND, Outdoor Destinations appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Step into history at the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, located along the scenic upper Missouri River. From 1829 to 1867, this celebrated fur trading post played a significant role in the region's development and was among the first sites declared a National Historic Landmark in the United States.

During your visit, explore the trade house where knowledgeable rangers bring history to life through engaging exhibits and stories. While you're there, don't miss the Missouri River Trail, which offers a peaceful, 2,000-foot walk winding through beautiful river bottoms and provides a fresh perspective on the area's natural beauty.

Cut Bluff Overlook

If you're seeking sweeping vistas and a touch of frontier history, Cut Bluff Overlook is a local favorite. This breathtaking lookout, famously camped at by Lewis and Clark on April 21, 1805, delivers panoramic views of the Missouri River's southern banks, rugged bluffs, and a charming historic home set against the horizon. Sunrise and sunset offer especially stunning photo opportunities. Plus, well-kept picnic and grill areas invite you to relax and savor a memorable outing with loved ones.

The Frontier Museum

Experience Williston's rich past firsthand at The Frontier Museum. This inviting space features lovingly preserved buildings, including original homes, a general store, a school, and a church, that capture the everyday charm of life in the 1800s and early 1900s. Throughout the year, the museum hosts immersive events, unique exhibits, and private tours, bringing local history to life for visitors of all ages.

Fort Buford State Historic Site

Visit a true landmark of the northern frontier at Fort Buford State Historic Site. Established in 1866, Fort Buford served as a key supply depot and strategic base for military operations, as well as a safeguard for those venturing westward.

Explore the reconstructed officer's quarters, now a museum filled with artifacts and stories of the era. The grounds also feature picnic areas, letting you soak up the peaceful prairie views.

Live Tucked Away at Dakota Ridge

If you can picture yourself embracing Williston's blend of history, community, and natural beauty, Dakota Ridge Apartments could be your next home.

Choose from spacious two- and three-bedroom layouts, each thoughtfully designed with modern amenities such as sleek black appliances, ceiling fans, wood-style flooring, air conditioning, and private balconies.

Beyond your front door, you'll find a welcoming resident lounge, a business center for productivity, walking paths for fresh air, and a large dog park perfect for your furry companions.

The location puts you close to Williston's top restaurants, shops, entertainment, and recreation. Outdoor adventures are always nearby, with easy access to spots like Missouri Ridge Commercial Park and Eagle Ridge Golf Course!

Ready to experience the best of Williston living? Schedule a tour of your new home at Dakota Ridge Apartments today!

The post Discover Williston, North Dakota: A Quiet Historical Retreat appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

Weidner Cares visits North Dakota to support the Salvation Army!

On Thursday, August 28, our North Dakota associates spent the day volunteering at the Salvation Army in Williston as part of our annual Weidner Cares program. Weidner Cares is a company-wide philanthropic initiative we host in each region. During this event, our teams close their doors for an entire workday to contribute their time, resources, and expertise, giving a helping hand to a local non-profit organization.

The Salvation Army plays a vital role in the Williston community, providing essential services such as food assistance, housing support, and church services, while also offering hope to families in need. To help them continue this mission, our team worked across two of their facilities:

At the main center, associates cleaned and organized the attic, landscaped outdoor spaces, and installed wood chips and panels to make pathways safer and more accessible for visitors.

At the thrift store, volunteers got to work and organized clothing and displays, vacuumed and shampooed carpets, and deep-cleaned the sales floor. They also tackled the basement by removing hundreds of pounds of unsellable donations, creating a safer and more functional space for both staff and shoppers.

At the end of the day, both sites had been transformed into cleaner, more welcoming spaces. The work not only supported staff and clients but also helped the Salvation Army continue its mission of serving families in the Williston area.

As Area Director Brittanee Perdue put it best, “This was our most successful Weidner Cares yet!”

Fantastic work, North Dakota! We’re grateful for your dedication to helping those in need!

The post North Dakota Weidner Cares – A Fresh Start for the Salvation Army appeared first on Weidner Apartment Homes Blog.

If you’re looking at apartments, don't rule out options with one more bedroom than you actually need. There are many creative ways to use that spare bedroom to significantly improve the way you use your space.
 

Consider upgrading to a slightly larger apartment and using the spare bedroom for the following options.  

1. Home Office

With the recent surge of remote work, a home office is becoming a must for many professionals. Instead of propping your laptop up on the dining room table, convert the extra bedroom into an office. Furnish it with a desk, comfortable chair, and storage options to create a space that you want to work in. Be intentional about the light fixtures you use to limit the glare on your computer screen, and decorate in a way that will help you focus while fostering creativity and productivity. 

2. Home Gym

While many apartments have shared fitness centers, sometimes you just want to work out in your own space. If you’re an avid exerciser, having easy access to your weights and workout equipment can make doing what you love even more convenient. If you’re starting a workout routine, having easy access to your home gym will limit excuses and help keep you on track. Although your downstairs neighbor may not appreciate a full gym above them, you can find several quiet and low-impact exercises to stay fit without leaving your apartment or causing disruption. 

3. Guest Room

When hosting guests, it’s nice to have a comfortable and dedicated place for them to stay that’s not your couch. A guest room can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like, as long as it has a comfortable bed and a place for guests to put their things. If you have frequent visitors, a guest room can be the perfect option for that spare bedroom.

4. Hobby Room

If you’ve picked up a new hobby over the last year or two, you may be looking for a space to store your things and work on your craft. Maybe you started painting or drawing, perhaps you’ve finally created that YouTube channel or you’ve gotten into video games, sewing, yoga, or you want a sunny place to put all of the plants you’ve managed to keep alive. Whatever your new hobby or interest is, the spare bedroom can be a place to express yourself and keep it all organized so it's not spilling out into the rest of the apartment. 

5. Dressing Room/Extra Closet Space

Even in the most spacious and modern apartments, the bathroom is usually the smallest room in the house. If you need a little more room to get ready in the mornings, consider using the spare bedroom as an extension of your closet. Use the space to set up a vanity or put in an extra dresser, so there’s more room for your wardrobe. Hang mirrors, install decorative lights, and use creative storage hacks to give yourself more room to get ready in the mornings. Apartments like Prairie Pines at The Ridge in Williston, ND, have bedrooms with large closets, but having an extra room could change the way you organize your clothes and prepare for the day. 

6. Second Living Room

The living room is the heart of the home and where most of the “living” is done, hence the name. But sometimes, the main living room can’t accommodate everyone’s needs, and this is when a second living space comes in handy. Convert the spare bedroom into a place where you go to watch sports, decked out in memorabilia from your favorite teams. Or, turn it into the ultimate movie room where you can store your expansive DVD collection and fill the space with comfortable seats. Or, don’t install a TV at all and use this secondary living room as a place to write, journal, read, or play games. 

7. Play Space 

Sometimes, families with kids have to get creative in utilizing the space in their apartments. A spare bedroom could be transformed into a kid-friendly play area, where they keep all of their toys and books, so they’re not all over the living room. You could decorate this space with their favorite colors and themes and enjoy the luxury of closing the door to avoid the mess. The “Ridge” floor plan at Prairie Pines at The Ridge Apartment Homes works perfectly for this idea, as the open-concept floor plan has 1,291 square feet of living space with two bedrooms on one side of the home and the third near the living room. 

Start Your Apartment Search Here

Whether you’re planning a move to the quiet town of Williston, ND, or a big city like Seattle, you want to make sure your modern apartment suits your lifestyle. Don’t eliminate larger apartments with an extra bedroom from your apartment search, as there are plenty of creative and useful things you could do with the extra space. If you’re ready to start your apartment search, schedule a chat with us today! You’re one call away from finding your home sweet home at Prairie Pines at The Ridge Apartment Homes.
 

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Over the past ten years, Williston’s population has mushroomed, but it still hasn’t lost its small-town charm thanks to the friendly people and tight-knit apartment communities. However, it’s not just the quaint neighborhoods that have caused the area’s rapid growth. The town’s population grew by 82% between 2010 and 2019, primarily due to the region’s booming oil and gas industry. As a result, many of the other sectors in the city have dramatically expanded, creating more quality jobs with competitive pay and compensation.
 

For those who love a small-town vibe, Williston makes the perfect home.
 

Here are three more reasons that might convince you to relocate to this beautiful and friendly region! 

1. Booming Economic Opportunities 

Oil and gas exploration has always been a mainstay of the economy. Williston is located at the center of the Bakken Formation (a massive source of oil), which has helped North Dakota secure a position as the second-largest oil-producing state in America, after Texas. Williston’s local job opportunities are soaring, especially in the energy industry. Moreover, as the city is located at the crossroads of US Highway 85 and 2, its distribution sector is also skyrocketing. Overall, in Williston, you won’t have trouble finding well-paying jobs due to the area’s continued growth, providing plenty of employment opportunities. 
 

2. It’s A Healthy And Active Town 

Health is a massive priority in Williston, and as a resident, you’ll find a plethora of ways to keep yourself active and fit. There are more than half a dozen, and counting, walking trails in the city. If you’re seeking adventure, you’ll love the different watersports, like white water rafting and kayaking, near the Missouri River and the Sakakawea Lake. In addition, Williston residents have access to the Area Recreation Centre, where guests can take advantage of various amenities like a water park, an indoor tennis court, a spin room, an indoor turf field, and four basketball courts. 
 

3. Friendly Communities 

Williston is famous for its small-town charm, which results from the many friendly and inviting area residents. The communities here are especially social, and they like to get together frequently. Also, with the growing population, more indoor and outdoor attractions help add to the community’s quality of life and provide spaces for people to connect. 
 

Williston is a great place to live due to all the modern conveniences that add to the area’s excitement and homey feel. If you plan to move to Williston, we encourage you to check out Prairie Vista Apartment Homes. It’s a newly-built community that perfectly reflects the essence of this small-town city with a modern twist. From top-tier amenities to rich community life, here at Prairie Vista, you’ll enjoy it all! 
 

Are you looking for a spacious apartment to start your new journey in Williston? Contact Prairie Vista Apartment Homes right away! We’ll schedule your tour where you can discover your next place to call home in Williston, ND!
 

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