We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all who presented and attended the recent Women’s Health Luncheon. Your presence and participation helped make the event a meaningful success, and your engagement reflected the strength, compassion, and curiosity that drive progress in women’s health.

This luncheon was more than just a gathering—it was a shared moment of learning, support, and awareness. Thanks to your commitment to your own health and the well-being of others, our discussions around breast cancer, lead poisoning, stroke and brain injuries, and Alzheimer’s disease reached hearts and minds in a powerful way.

Your thoughtful questions, shared experiences, and warm energy enriched the dialogue and deepened the sense of community we strive to build through events like this. Whether you came as a survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, advocate, or simply someone eager to learn, your presence helped illuminate the importance of these critical issues.

We are especially grateful for your time and openness. We know how busy life can be, and your decision to attend speaks volumes about your commitment to knowledge, prevention, and empowerment. Your participation helps move these conversations forward—into families, workplaces, and communities—where they can truly make a difference.

Thank you for standing with us in the pursuit of health equity, awareness, and hope. We look forward to seeing you at future events and continuing this important journey together.

Special thanks to Alec Wendelboe of the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota–North Dakota; Awol Windissa, Director of Community Health at Pillsbury United Communities; Jacara Warfield, Community Health Coordinator at Pillsbury United Communities, and David Pierini, Editor at North News.

Photo Credits: David Pierini, Editor at North News

Living with a chronic condition—or concerned about your risk? If you’re 60 or older, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone, either.

Our Chronic Disease Management Classes are designed to help you take back control. Led by compassionate Community Health Workers, these classes offer personalized support to manage your condition and maintain a healthy, independent lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or simply want to make proactive changes, we’re here to help you feel your best.

You’ll learn how small, sustainable lifestyle shifts can lead to big improvements in your health and well-being.

Interested or have questions?
📧 jacaraw@pillsburyunited.org
📞 (612) 453-5186

Take the first step today—your health is worth it.

Adjusting to life in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. To support immigrants and refugees in their journey toward integration and success, the International Institute of Minnesota (IIMN) offers the Community Orientation Workshops (COW). These free classes are designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to help individuals navigate life in Minnesota.

International Institute of Minnesota 11 week Community Orientation Workshop

Where: PUC Waite House Conference Room | 2323 11th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55404

When: May 8th – July 17th, every Thursday from 2:00 -4:00 pm

What Are Community Orientation Workshops?

The Community Orientation Workshops are a series of classes that cover a wide range of topics relevant to newcomers. Each week focuses on a different subject, allowing participants to join at any time and repeat classes as needed.

Topics Covered Include:

1. Community Navigation – Understanding local systems and services.

2. Family Adjustment – Adapting to new cultural norms and family dynamics.

3. Safety Awareness – Learning about personal and community safety.

4. Health Literacy – Accessing healthcare services and understanding health information.

5. Housing Literacy – Navigating housing options and tenant rights.

6. Financial Literacy – Managing personal finances and budgeting.

7. Educational Readiness – Preparing for academic success in the U.S. education system.

8. Job Readiness – Building skills for employment and workplace expectations.

9. Progress Towards Citizenship – Understanding the path to U.S. citizenship.

10. Assistance Resources – Identifying community resources and support services.

11. Community Bridges – Building connections within the local community

These classes are specifically designed for adults with humanitarian protection immigrant status who have been living in the United States for five years or less. This includes individuals with refugee, asylee, certified victim of human trafficking, special immigrant visa, Amerasian, or Cuban/Haitian entrant status. All classes are free of charge.

Additional Support and Resources

Beyond the Community Orientation Workshops, IIMN offers a variety of other classes and programs to support the immigrant and refugee community:

• Housekeeping Training: Learn skills for the hospitality and cleaning industry, with job placement assistance.

• English Classes: Improve reading, writing, and speaking English at beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels.

• Dietary Aide Training: Gain knowledge in food safety, nutrition, and communication skills, with job support.

• Professional Leadership Training: Develop leadership skills for career advancement.

• Entrepreneurship Class: Create a business plan with guidance from experts.

• College Readiness Academy: Prepare for higher education with support and resources.International Institute of MinnesotaInternational Institute of Minnesota

For more information or to register for classes, please visit the IIMN website or contact Kaija Bergen, Instructor and Program Support, at (651) 377-8100 or via email.International Institute of Minnesota

At IIMN, we are committed to empowering immigrants and refugees to thrive in Minnesota. Through education, support, and community engagement, we help individuals build a foundation for success and integration.

We are deeply honored and grateful to Seward Community Co-op for selecting us as a SEED recipient for the month of March. This generous support is more than just a donation—it’s a powerful investment in the work we do and the community we serve.

Through the SEED program, shoppers at Seward Co-op round up their purchases at the register, directing 100% of those donations to local organizations like ours. Thanks to the compassion and generosity of Co-op customers, we received critical funding that will help us expand our impact and reach more individuals and families with the services they need.

Being chosen as a SEED recipient not only provided us with essential financial support—it also connected us with a community of values-driven neighbors who believe in justice, equity, sustainability, and mutual care. That connection is just as meaningful as the dollars raised.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Seward Co-op for their ongoing commitment to community well-being, and to every shopper who rounded up at the register in March. Your small acts of generosity add up to big changes.

Together, we are growing a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community. Thank you for being part of that journey with us.

With gratitude,

Pillsbury United Communities