Elizabeth Brisbin

Creating Together: A free family art workshop

The Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery offers this free event for children (ages 2-8) and their guardians to explore creativity, practice early development skills, and strengthen their bonds through collaborative art activities.

Guardians will gain valuable techniques to support their child’s growth, while children will have the opportunity to build confidence and express themselves through art. Led by youth programmer Sabrina Ford, this event promises a fun and enriching experience for both children and their caregivers.

The event takes place on January 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery, located at 1256 N. Penn Ave., Minneapolis, fourth floor. There’s free parking on the ramp. For more info, visit maahmg.org.

Elizabeth Brisbin

Weekends at Wirth: Snowboarding lessons for youth and families

Melanin in Motion invites community members to come out and explore the joys of winter by snowboarding at Theodore Wirth Park. Every weekend from January 11 to March 1, Melanin in Motion offers accessible and affordable lessons for small groups of up to six participants.

Each lesson lasts 90 minutes, and families can join for as little as $0-$15 per child. Pay what you can, with a maximum fee of $15 per participant. Attendees who complete three lessons will earn a lift ticket for their family at Trollhaugen Ski Resort. Register now to secure your spot.

Elizabeth Brisbin

Northside Residents Redevelopment Council presents Tubing Days

The Northside Residents Redevelopment Council is excited to present Tubing Days. This family-friendly event invites people of all ages to enjoy a day of winter fun at the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Parkway. The event is free and takes place on January 10 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. RSVP by emailing contactus@nrrc.org or call 612-335-5924.

Elizabeth Brisbin

2025 MLK Day celebrations in the Twin Cities

Celebrate the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by finding hope through community. The MLK Holiday, observed annually on the third Monday of January, this year falls on January 20. Check the list below to find free and low-cost events to join with others across the state to reflect on, honor, and advance the legacy of Dr. King.

MLK Community Conference
When: January 16 · 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
What: As part of the State of Minnesota’s “One Dream. One Minnesota” MLK celebrations, this second annual conference is brought to you in partnership with Metropolitan State University and features speakers and interactive workshops. There will also be a keynote address, an interactive workshop, and a panel discussion featuring networking and resource booths. Lunch will be provided. Admission is free, but capacity is limited.
Where: Metropolitan State University, 700 East 7th S., St. Paul
More info: https://bit.ly/4h4pR4Q

Sweet Potato Comfort Pie 10th Annual Martin Luther King Holiday of Service
When: January 19 · 1:30-4:30 p.m.
What: Sweet Potato Pie’s annual event returns for its 10th year to honor MLK’s legacy through service, sharing, and celebration. A preshow awards reception begins at 1:30 p.m. featuring the Character Values Photo Exhibit, the Upholding Our Beloved Community Awards, and featured musician Mari Harris. Following the pre-show, live music will be played by Jerome Richardson, Jamela Pettiford and the GQ unit, Shir Harmony, and others. Food and refreshments will be provided. This is a free event.
Where: Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom, 5418 Wayzata Blvd., Golden Valley
More info: https://bit.ly/40qaDla

44th Annual U of M Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert: Light
When: January 19 · 3 p.m.
What: With the theme of transforming light to darkness, G. Phillip Shoultz, III, and VocalEssence Singers of This Age, along with others, will perform a tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This is a free event.
Where: Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 Fourth St. S., Minneapolis
More info: https://bit.ly/40no4Cu

MLK Community Worship Service
When: January 19 · 4 p.m.
What: The Duluth NAACP invites community members to this worship service to experience a modern-day expression of the Black Church tradition that nurtured the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Where: Peace United Church of Christ, 1111 North 11th Ave. E., Duluth
More info: www.duluthnaacp.org/mlk

St. Cloud State University MLK Community Celebration
When: January 20 · 8-10:30 a.m.
What: St. Cloud State University’s signature MLK Community Celebration will commence at 8 a.m. at the River’s Edge Convention Center. A community conversation will kick off the event, along with the announcement of the 2025 MLK Celebration Humanitarian Award, Dexter R. Stanton Essay, and Visual Art Contest winners, and a keynote address by Dr. Evelyn Hill. This is a free event.
Where: River’s Edge Convention Center, 10 Fourth Ave. S., St. Cloud
More info: https://bit.ly/40njnIG

35th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Breakfast
When: January 20 · 8 – 9:30 a.m.
What: Under the theme “One People,” this annual event will honor the life and legacy of Dr. King while raising funds for students in the Twin Cities. This year’s keynote speaker is Michele Norris, senior contributing editor for MSNBC, former NPR host, and the author of “Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race & Identity.”
The Sounds of Blackness will perform, and the Threads Dance Project and the VocalEssence Singers of This Age will offer special performances.
Where: Minneapolis Convention Center (Exhibit Hall A), 1301 Second Ave. S., Minneapolis
More info: MLKBreakfast.com. This breakfast will also be screened at many community locations.

39th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration
When: January 20 · 10 a.m.
What: You are invited to advance Dr. King’s dream at the closing event for the State of Minnesota’s 39th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, one of the oldest and largest celebrations in the nation.
With the theme of “One Dream. One Minnesota. Bridging Legacy with Action,” this closing event features community leaders and performances by Billy Steele and Fellowship Baptist Church, Jamecia Bennett, and Known MPLS. Dr. Yohuru Williams will MC and host a fireside chat by revered elders Josie R. Johnson and Reatha Clark King. To view the recorded live stream of the MLK, Jr. Celebration on January 20, 2025, visit TPT.org.
Where: Ordway Music Theater, 345 Washington St., St. Paul
More info: mn.gov/oeoa/events/2025-mlk-day.jsp

2025 MLK Day Service Project!
When: January 20 · 10 – 11:30 a.m.
What: This annual event offers an opportunity to honor Dr. King’s legacy by serving others. Make a difference on this powerful day by joining other community members in volunteerism at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This event is free but with limited capacity. Register at the link below.
Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave. S., Minneapolis
More info: https://bit.ly/4fQ3M8U

27th Annual Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
When: January 20 · 10 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
What: This MLK celebration features performing artists, community partners driving clear examples of equity forward work, a complimentary lunch, a fun-filled gift station for kids, and an overall experience founded on the principles upheld by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This is a free event.
Where: Powderhorn Recreation Center, 3400 15th Ave. S., Minneapolis
More info: www.ppna.org/mlkcelebration

KMOJ’s 12th Annual Soul Bowl
When: January 20 · 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
What: Celebrate the Martin Luther King holiday with other community members at KMOJ’s 12th Annual Soul Bowl.
More info: https://bit.ly/3BX44ND

Duluth NAACP MLK Gathering and March
When: January 20 · 10:30-11:45 a.m.
What: The Duluth NAACP will honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with this annual march at the Family Freedom Center (Washington Center Gymnasium), starting at the entrance between 3rd and 4th Street on 1st Ave. West and begin on Lake St. between 3rd and 4th Avenue. A rally will follow at DECC-Symphony Hall, 350 Harbor Dr., Duluth, from 12-1:30 p.m.
More info: www.duluthnaacp.org/mlk

Mpls NAACP Martin Luther King Jr. Day Luncheon
When: January 20 · 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
What: The Minneapolis NAACP presents this MLK luncheon that offers food, community spirit, and inspiring history lessons. Admission is $7.88.
Where: ECMN Building, 1101 West Broadway Ave., Minneapolis
More info: https://bit.ly/408gzxZ

ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com presents an MLK Day of Service for Black women
When: January 20 · 12-1 p.m.
What: To honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy with a day of service, podcaster, comedian, and radio host Sheletta Brudidge is inviting Black women to meet her at Tubman Center, a shelter for survivors of domestic abuse, to drop off new and unused bedding and pillows.
Where:  Tubman: Harriet Tubman Center East, 1725 Monastery Way, St. Paul
More info: bit.ly/ShelettaMLKDayofService

MLK Living the Dream Celebration
When: January 20 · 6-9 p.m.
What: As part of the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board’s series of MLK events, this annual gathering offers speakers, live entertainment, and the presentation of the Living the Dream Award. Check the website for unfolding details. This is a free event.
Where: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rec. Center, 4055 Nicollet Ave. S, Minneapolis
More info: https://bit.ly/3C0iiNE

Exploring Creative Actions for Justice
When: January 23 · 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
What: Honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by listening to a distinguished panel of civic leaders and change agents discuss, unpack, and apply King’s ideas on creative protest. Panelists will engage students, faculty, and staff around the legacy and relevance of MLK in the context of 21st-century America and their own respective work environments/spheres of influence. The event includes breakfast, a performance by a youth choir, a roundtable dialogue with scholars and activists, a blanket-making service project, and more.
Where: Minneapolis College, 1501 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis (Room T.1400)
More info: minneapolis.edu/mlk

Unity in Colors: A Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration
When: January 24 · 1-3 p.m.
What: Join community members for this unique drop-in program that invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds to contribute to a collective masterpiece. Express your creativity through coloring pieces of art that will come together to form a stunning commemorative board dedicated to Dr. King’s vision of a harmonious and inclusive society. This is a free event.
Where: Sibley Park, 1900 40th St. East, Minneapolis
More info: https://bit.ly/4gNcmqk

Elizabeth Brisbin

Children’s Reading Circle with T. Mychael Rambo

In collaboration with Washburn Library, the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery (MAAHMG) is inviting community members to relish the power of reading out loud. The museum is hosting a Children’s Reading Circle featuring three-time Emmy Award-winner T. Mychael Rambo reading his book “The Stories From My Grandmother’s Hands.”

All are welcome to this free event, which takes place on January 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at MAAHMG, located at 1256 N. Penn Ave., Minneapolis, fourth floor. For more info, go to maahmg.org.

Elizabeth Brisbin

Natural Hair Care Student Graduation

 

On November 21, Natural Hair Care Institute graduated a PUC student from their 600-hour-long program in natural hair care and braiding. PUC has a partnership with Natural Hair Care Institute to fund full tuition for eligible young adults (ages 18-24) residing in the City of Minneapolis through a grant from the City.

The program is currently recruiting students for the next cohort starting January 13, 2025. Please contact AutumnM@pillsburyunited.org to enroll.

Elizabeth Brisbin

FANS Scholars visit the Bell Museum

On Wednesday, November 20, over 30 FANS scholars visited the Bell Museum to learn about careers in biology, museum science, astronomy, paleontology, and art.
Pillsbury United Communities has sponsored FANS (Furthering Achievement through a Network of Support), a free college, career, and life preparatory program for high school students for over 30 years.
Click on the photos below to see more highlights from the trip.

Elizabeth Brisbin

Thanksgiving meals and turkey giveaway events across Minnesota

Whether you need a holiday meal or want to lend a helping hand, various organizations across the Twin Cities metro area are hosting giveaways to ensure everyone has food for Thanksgiving. From free turkeys to full meal packages, check out the list below for locations and times to help make this holiday season brighter for those in need. All meals are offered while supplies last.

Don’t Shoot Guns, Shoot Hoops 100 Turkeys Giveaway
When: Nov. 20 · 11 am
What: Don’t Shoot Guns, Shoot Hoops will give out 100 turkeys at George Floyd Square while supplies last.
Where: 38th & Chicago Ave. S., Mpls.
More info: www.facebook.com/waitehouse 

Pillsbury United Communities Community Dinner
When: Nov. 21 · 5-7 pm
What: This event offers food, music, games, and a fun opportunity to connect with neighbors, families, and friends.
Where: Waite House, 2323 11th Ave., S., Mpls., MN, 55404; dining room (2nd floor)
More info: www.facebook.com/waitehouse 

River Heights Thanksgiving Giveaway
When: Nov. 22 · 7:30 pm; Saturday, Nov. 23 ·12:30 pm
What: River Heights is hosting an annual giveaway where community members can get what they need for a Thanksgiving meal. Gently used clothing will also be offered. No registration is required.
Where: River Heights, 6070 Cahill Ave., Inver Grove Heights
More info: bit.ly/RiverHeightsThanksgivingGiveaway

Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway
When: Nov. 23 · 10 am – 12 pm
What: This annual, free drive-through giveaway returns to offer families a turkey on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is needed.
Where: 810 W. 31st St., Mpls.
More info: www.joycommunityservice.org

Life Center Thanksgiving Outreach
When: Nov. 23 · 12 pm
What: Life Center’s annual Thanksgiving outreach event offers community members a hot Thanksgiving meal and 200+ frozen turkeys.
Where: 1812 Park Ave., Mpls.
More info: bit.ly/ThanksgivingOutreach2024

Tru Breed MC’s 14th Annual Turkey Giveaway
When: Nov. 23 · 1 pm
What: Tru Breed Motorcycle Club is once again giving back to the community with a turkey giveaway (while supplies last).
Where: Folwell Park, 1615 N. Dowling Ave., Mpls.
More info: https://bit.ly/3OdYA3z

FOCUS Minnesota Thanksgiving Dinner
When: Nov. 24 · 5-6:30 pm
What: Community members are invited to enjoy a dine-in or take-out Thanksgiving dinner.
Where: 550 Rice St., St. Paul
More info: www.facebook.com/FOCUSMN

Thanksgiving Distribution Registration
When: Nov. 26 · 9 am – 12 pm
What: Registration for Union Gospel Missio’s Thanksgiving food distribution is full, but leftover food will be offered after distribution day on a first-come-first-served basis starting at 9 am.
Where: Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities – Men’s Campus, 435 University Ave. E., St. Paul
More info: secure.qgiv.com/for/thanks20

White Bear Area Food Shelf Thanksgiving’s Give A Gobble
When: Nov. 26 ·  2 pm
What: Registration is full, but all unclaimed meals will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis without prior registration beginning at 2 pm.
Where: 1884 Whitaker St., White Bear Lake
More info: whitebearfoodshelf.org/2024

Loaves & Fishes Community Meals
When: Nov. 27 (times listed below)
What: Dine-in and to-go community meals
Where:

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (to-go meal)
1390 Larpenteur Ave. E., Saint Paul
5:30 – 6:30 pm

Saint Paul Opportunity Center (to-go meal)
422 Dorothy Day Place, St. Paul
4:30 – 5:15 pm

True Foundation Church (dine-in and to-go meal)
5840 Lilac Dr. N., Brooklyn Center
5:30 – 6:30 pm

More info: loavesandfishesmn.org

Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities
When: Nov. 28 · 11:30 am –1 pm
What: Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities will offer a special dinner for Mission residents and community members.
Where: Men’s Campus – 435 University Ave. E., St. Paul
More info: bit.ly/UGMTCThanksgiving

Daily Work and Shobi’s Table Gratitude Feast Free Thanksgiving Meal
When: Nov. 28 · 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
What: Enjoy traditional Thanksgiving food and additional dishes for cross-cultural inclusion.
Where: Christ On Capitol Hill, 105 University Ave. W., St. Paul
More info: Facebook or email events@shobistable.org

8th Annual Community Thanksgiving Meal
When: Nov. 28 · 12-3 pm
What: This community meal is not just for those in need but for anyone without a place to go on Thanksgiving Day. Come share in a delicious, free meal with your neighbors.
Where: Fellowship Church, 707 Commerce Dr., Woodbury
More info: bit.ly/FellowshipChurchThanksgiving

Third Annual Buffalo Community Thanksgiving Meal
When: Nov. 28 · 12- 5 pm
What: Hope Community welcomes a free traditional Thanksgiving meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, rolls, and pie. All are welcome.
Where: 206 2nd Ave., Northeast Buffalo
More info: bit.ly/ThirdAnnualBuffaloThanksgiving 

StartAnew Thanksgiving Dinner
When: Nov. 28 · 1:30-4:30 pm
What: StartANew’s annual dinner is open to all. Bring family and friends; registration is not required.
Where: 1119 Morgan Ave. N., Mpls.
More info: 612-389-0008 or bit.ly/StartAnewThanksgiving

Discounted Groceries
Fare For All
$35 Thanksgiving Holiday Pack
No registration required
More info: For locations, call 763-450-3860 or thefoodgroupmn.org/groceries/pack

Elizabeth Brisbin

FANS Scholars attend Duluth college tour

Ten FANS Scholars from the Brian Coyle Center and Waite House recently attended a Duluth college tour over MEA. The students also visited the College of St. Scholastica and UMD.

Pillsbury United Communities has sponsored FANS ((Furthering Achievement through a Network of Support), a free college, career, and life preparatory program for high school students for over 30 years. Students who have completed the FANS Scholars program can receive a small scholarship to assist with college expenses and have their FANS Advocate support them through college graduation. Since its inception, FANS Scholars have received over $1,000,000 in scholarships to assist with college expenses.

Click on the photos below to see more highlights from the trip.

Elizabeth Brisbin

Brian Coyle Center volunteers join ‘Get Out The Vote’ efforts

On September 25, more than 25 volunteers from Pillsbury United Communities’ Brian Coyle Center, Centro Tyrone Guzman, the Minnesota Immigrant Movement (MIM),  and Hispanic Advocacy and Community Empowerment through Research (HACER) gathered for a three-hour, door-knocking canvassing in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. See the photos below.

 

Also, on October 23, phone-banking volunteers gathered at PUC’s Waite House Center to reach out to voters.

 

Elizabeth Brisbin

Brian Coyle Center Food Shelf selected as 2025 SEED Recipient

Pillsbury United Community’s Brian Coyle Center Food Shelf has been selected as a recipient of the Seward Co-op 2025 SEED program. Since 2011, Seward’s SEED program has allowed customers to “round up” their grocery bills to support organizations that align with Seward’s mission of promoting a healthy community.

Located in the heart of Minneapolis’s Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, the Brian Coyle Center Food Shelf offers nutritious and culturally affirming food to Black, Brown, low-income, and immigrant households. It will be the featured SEED recipient in March 2025.

Other 2025 SEED recipients include Southside Foodshare, Daryeel Youth Services, RECLAIM, Little Earth Residents Association, Twin Cities Food Justice, Dream of Wild Health, and Avenues for Youth.

 

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