Elizabeth Brisbin

Minneapolis Community Connections Conference

2025 Community Connections Conference

FREE EVENT

When: Saturday, February 8 at 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, First Floor, Hall E

1301 2nd Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55404

Participation is Power!

Speak:

  • Get involved in City decisions 
  • Advise City leaders 

Act:

  • Vote
  • Join a board
  • Make change in your neighborhood 

Grow:

  • Jobs
  • Internships
  • Health
  • Housing
  • Renters’ rights
  • Immigration
  • Community safety
  • Environmental justice
  • Community resources
  • Food, music and dance

Get a FREE bus pass to the event: MinneapolisMN.gov/ccc

English 2025 Community Connections Conference

Spanish Community Connections Conference 2025

Somali Community Connections Conference 2025

Oromo Community Connections Conference 2025

Hmong Community Connections Conference 2025

Lao Community Connections Conference 2025

Elizabeth Brisbin

Youth Day at the Capitol (YDAC) with Pillsbury United Communities

Youth Day at the Capital 2025

Pillsbury United Communities is a sponsoring partner for 2025 Youth Day at the Capitol. 30 PUC high schoolers will attend civic engagement workshops and meet with their state representatives and senators about issues important to them.

Get ready for an unforgettable day at the Capitol, where you’ll have the chance to meet and interview government officials who help shape your communities. This is your opportunity to ask tough questions and dive deep into the issues that matter most to you. It’s not just a field trip—it’s a chance to make your voice heard and see how you can use your people skills to hold government accountable and make a difference. This day will be packed with valuable insights, inspiration, and an unforgettable experience that you can take with you into your future as an engaged citizen!

Who: Interns (KRSM, Food Systems, Teen Tech, North News), Cedar-Riverside Youth Council members, FANS Scholars

What: Learn how to become politically active around issues important to you and meet the State Representative for your community.

When: Tuesday, February 25. Depart from your location (Brian Coyle, Waite House, North Market and Oak Park) around 8am. Your youth leader will confirm the exact time. We will be riding in the agency vans and returning between 2:30-4:00. We are awaiting the confirmation times of afternoon meetings with our representatives and that will determine the time we leave.

Where: Minnesota State Capitol and Minnesota History Center

Northside Group + Van (Oak Park + North Market)

Lead Staff: Tirzah Sanchez Christopher (North News + FANS Scholars) and Beatriz Ruiz (Food Systems)

Phillips Group + Van (Waite House)

Lead Staff: Cristeta Boarini (KRSM) and Lillian Biolo Thompson (FANS Scholars)

Cedar-Riverside Group + Van (Brian Coyle)

Lead Staff: Fardowza Ali (Teen Tech + FANS)

Lunch provided. Jimmy John’s: pork-free and vegetarian options available, please notify your staff of dietary needs or preferences.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

Press Forward Minnesota announces inaugural grantees, including North News

Pillsbury United Communities’ North News was recently selected as one of 13 organizations to receive an inaugural grant from Press Forward Minnesota. The funding will support North News’ efforts to champion grassroots community journalism and youth training in North Minneapolis while expanding digital content to make news more accessible on mobile platforms.

Press Forward Minnesota is a collaborative initiative that brings together funders, media organizations, and community partners and will award a total of $520,000 to the 13 organizations. These grants support smaller news organizations that provide hyperlocal, original reporting to communities across the state, focusing on meeting the needs of communities of color, linguistically diverse communities, low-wealth rural communities, and others not adequately served, reached,​ or represented.

Selected through a rigorous process, the chosen organizations represent diverse media outlets that serve communities across the state, from the Iron Range to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Each grantee will receive a one-year, $40,000 grant.

The other grantees are:
Access Press, Ltd.: Growing capacity and strategy to expand perspectives and geographic coverage to serve Minnesota’s disability community.
BLCK Press: Launching digital reporting to amplify and serve the voices of Black Minnesotans.
Eden Prairie Local News: Expanding coverage of economic developments, business dynamics, and their impact on Eden Prairie’s diverse communities, including Somali and South Asian residents.
Hmong Broadcasting Company LLC: Expanding Uncover More Good on 3HmongTV, a program fostering awareness, civic engagement, and cultural pride through conversations on critical issues affecting Hmong and Southeast Asian communities.
Iron Range Today: Laying the groundwork to fill regional news gaps in northern​ Minnesota by funding a part-time position, freelance reporters, training, and essential equipment to thrive in the digital news landscape.
Lakeland News: Strengthening connections across its 7,500-square-mile viewing area and ensuring robust infrastructure to uphold its values of excellence, innovation, integrity, and respect to serve residents of north central Minnesota.
Minnesota Women’s Press: Expanding Greater Minnesota outreach and accelerating content development with a new membership model and director while continuing award-winning journalism on gender-based violence, systemic inequities, and solutions-driven storytelling.
Mshale Communications, Inc.: Amplifying the voices of African immigrant communities in Minnesota through data-driven journalism to highlight the critical issues, trends, and disparities affecting these communities, ensuring that their perspectives are fully represented in local media.
Project Optimist (in partnership with St. Cloud Somali Community Radio): Collaborating with St. Cloud Somali Community Radio to share solutions-focused stories about the Somali community in Central Minnesota.
Root River Current, Inc.: Strengthening operations, resources, and storytelling capacity to expand coverage, enhance audience engagement, and fulfill its commitment to “Building Community Through Storytelling.” in southeast Minnesota.
Steele County Times: Hiring a full-time reporter to address underserved coverage areas in southern Minnesota and meet growing community demand to ensure fair representation of underrepresented groups.
ThreeSixty Journalism at the University of St. Thomas: Empowering diverse high school students through training and workshops in journalism and multimedia storytelling.

“We are incredibly excited to support these outstanding organizations that are vital to the health​ and well-being of their communities,” said May Yang, senior manager of policy and partnerships​ at the Minnesota Council on Foundations, who serves as the staff lead for Press Forward​ Minnesota. “These grants will help them expand their reach, innovate their reporting, and better​ serve their audiences.”

“McKnight is thrilled to see 13 innovative newsrooms from across the state included in the first round of Press Forward Minnesota funding, ” said Tim Murphy, program officer at the McKnight​ Foundation. “These organizations are providing a vital service, helping to inform and connect​ diverse communities that have been affected by the local news crisis. At the same time, we​ know local journalism needs more support from more funders, businesses, and readers alike, to​ match the scale of the challenge. We look forward to building on this important first step to​ strengthen a local news ecosystem that serves all Minnesotans”.

Press Forward Minnesota is one of the inaugural chapters of Press Forward, a national movement to strengthen communities by reinvigorating local news. This grant program represents one of the many ways the initiative supports local journalism and ensures that all Minnesotans can access the information they need to be informed and engaged citizens.

Press Forward Minnesota has received funding commitments from The McKnight Foundation,​ Bush Foundation, the Glen Nelson Center at American Public Media Group, the MacArthur Foundation, and the Taylor Family Farms Foundation.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

Pillsbury House + Theatre Presents Drag Story Hour MN’s new series – ‘Love Rising’

Join three best friends Doña Pepa, Sid Sity and Old Man Zimmer as they perform stories, songs and dance together in an interactive program for children and caretakers.

Get ready for a storytime like no other! As part of their 2025 Maker’s Series, Pillsbury House + Theatre is thrilled to present “Love Rising,” three new storytime adventures brought to life by the fabulous Drag Story Hour MN team. With songs, books, and puppets galore, they’ll whisk you away to the Boundary Waters, sparking curiosity and wonder along the way. Each episode is packed with tales of friendship, catchy tunes, and a dash of puppet magic—all celebrating the beauty of nature and the joy of discovery. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Pillsbury House + Theatre Performance dates:

  • Episode 1: February 22, 2025
  • Episode 2: April 26, 2025
  • Episode 3: May 31, 2025

Program Schedule:

10:00 AM – Art Activities in the Lobby
11:00 AM – Interactive Show with Doña Pepa, Sid Sity, Old Man Zimmer, and their puppet friends

“Love Rising” brings the fun of Drag Story Hour together with the magic of theatrical storytelling to create an unforgettable adventure for early learners (ages birth to 10). Bursting with nature, friendship, and a touch of enchantment, each episode takes the audience to the Boundary Waters for a journey of discovery, growth, and connection—with the environment and each other. Need a breather? Sensory toys will be ready and waiting. Best of all, this event is free and open to everyone, so come join the excitement!

In Episode 1, the trio sets off on an important mission to help animals in the wilderness, only to stumble upon an incredible discovery that changes everything. In Episode 2, the magic begins to grow, and the trio welcomes a new friend into their adventure. By Episode 3, it’s time to celebrate the power of friendship as their magical companion takes flight, spreading wonder far and wide.

 

 

The performers bring their own unique flair to the story. Doña Pepa, a Caribbean diva, lights up the stage with her love for dancing, nature, and sparkles. Old Man Zimmer adds warmth and wisdom as a thoughtful storyteller with a passion for books, gardening, and puppetry. Meanwhile, Sid Sity brings a creative spark with their love of music, sequins, and uplifting their friends. Together, they create a delightful, immersive experience for everyone to enjoy!

 

 

 

Drag Story Hour MN celebrates diverse, creative, and healthy gender expressions for children and their caring adults. Through storytelling, song, and art, the program fosters empathy, imagination, and community connection. For more information follow us on Instagram @dragstoryhourmn and Facebook @dragstoryhour.

Acknowledgements:

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund – and by the generous support of Pillsbury House + Theatre and our community partners.

About Pillsbury House + House

From the Makers Series to Chicago Avenue Project and Naked Stages, PILLSBURY HOUSE + THEATRE brings audiences closer—to the edge, to the actors, to affordable adventurous theatre, to fellow audience members, and to a strong, vibrant community. Now in its 33rd year, the theatre continues to inspire enduring change towards a just society. An integral part of Pillsbury United Communities, one of the largest human services organizations in the state, Pillsbury House + Theatre demonstrates that the highest quality art is an integral part of all healthy communities, winning community trust, accolades and awards across the metro and nationally. Learn more about our programs at opportunities at www.pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

Free flu & COVID-19 vaccine clinic 1-17-25

Community members are encouraged to strengthen their defenses against illnesses this winter at this free flu & COVID-19 vaccine clinic, which is made possible through a partnership with PUC and M Health Fairview! The clinic occurs on Friday, January 17, from 12-4 pm at the Brian Coyle Center, 420 15th Ave. S, Minneapolis (Community Room 1).
Flu vaccines are available for anyone ages 6 months and older; COVID-19 vaccines are available for people aged 5 or older. Interpreters will be available.
This is a free vaccine clinic; no incentives or gift cards will be provided. For more info, contact Fowzia at 612-302-3438 or Aliazar at 612-876-9326.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

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.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

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.

samd@pillsburyunited.org

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.

 

samd@pillsburyunited.org

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.

 

Becca Tripp

Remembering Bob Frawley

It is with profound respect and admiration that we honor the legacy of Bob Frawley, the first Director of the Brian Coyle Center and founder of the FANS Ultra Race. Bob’s impact during his  15-year tenure with Pillsbury United Communities – rooted in his unwavering commitment to community development, opportunities for young people to succeed, and social justice – are immeasurable.

Bob’s journey in Pillsbury United Communities began in 1988 when he founded FANS (Furthering Achievement Through a Network of Support). This initiative, which he directed until 2000, established the annual FANS Ultra Race, a fundraiser for scholarships for young people to attend college that continues to this day.

From 1991 to 1993, Bob directed the Currie Center, predecessor to the Brian Coyle Center. He then served as the first Director of the Brian Coyle Center in Cedar Riverside from 1993 until 1998, playing a crucial role in its buildout and establishment. His leadership and vision were instrumental in creating the vibrant hub that continues to serve as a cornerstone of critical community infrastructure. Bob’s leadership extended to his role as Director of Waite House, where he mentored so many community members and future PUC leaders. He was also instrumental in creating PUC’s affiliate program which supported the development of emerging, culturally specific nonprofits.

After leaving Pillsbury United Communities, Bob continued to support the FANS Ultra Race each year as a racer and fundraiser. He also dedicated himself to supporting smaller Immigrant led non-profits as a grant writer and strategic consultant. His core work was focused on empowering these organizations to realize their missions, serve their communities and achieve sustainability.

Bob touched countless lives, and his impact is best reflected in the words of those who had the privilege of working with him:

Amano Dube, Senior Directior of Community Development at the Brian Coyle Center
“I have known Bob since early 2000 when I was literally a volunteer for Oromo Community of MN which was located in a very small corner across from Brian Coyle Center. Bob touched the lives of so many immigrant communities in the twin cities. He is probably the main reason for so many new American social services organizations to exist and succeed in serving their communities. He is super smart, methodical, articulate and fearless. He understands how to navigate and extract resources from the philanthropic communities to benefit the communities in need. He left the lasting impact on the lives of so many. May his soul rest in peace!”

Noel Raymond, Senior Director of Narrative, Arts & Culture at Pillsbury House + Theatre
“When I started at PUC, I was initially afraid of Bob – he was intensely focused, exacting in his assessment of results, extraordinarily productive, and super disciplined when it came to finances. As I began to work with him on evaluation initiatives, fundraising strategy and program development, I came to so appreciate all of these qualities and I set about adopting them in my own work. Despite my initial fear, Bob was an incredibly generous and patient mentor and made me truly feel seen and successful. I came to understand that this was his super power – he quietly and diligently mentored so many. I am honored to have known him and to be part of his lasting legacy.”

To make a donation in honor of Bob Frawley, visit here. All donations will be directed to the FANS Scholarship fund, as requested by Bob and his family.

Joe Eichele

“Our Stories Our Lake Street” Showcase

On Friday, August 18th, seven of our youth interns voiced their concerns and advocated for change in their community during the “Our Stories Our Lake Street” Showcase at Urban Ventures in Minneapolis. The event was a partnership between Pillsbury United Communities and the Minnesota Humanities Center to celebrate youth voices from in and around East Lake Street.

Our youth interns put in time and effort over the summer to research issues in their community, interview locals, and craft speeches and to create a final film that encapsulated their perspectives. With the mentorship of their youth leader, Kay Carvajal Moran, they created a piece of work that reflected their beliefs and findings. The efforts of their work were on full display during the event. 

The evening started with a social hour as party-goers chatted with the numerous vendors in attendance. Tables were set up for jewelry, fruit, artwork, and more. A food truck occupied the street right outside of the entrance. One of the wildest attractions of the showcase were two piñatas just outside of the building. Both were quickly raided for their sweet treats by the children in an exciting frenzy.

After all the fun festivities, the crowd gathered at the stage to welcome the interns who were ready to present their work. Each intern began with a prepared speech that talked about the different issues citizens face on and around Lake Street. To cater to the audience, a mix of English and Spanish were used. The issues they spoke on ranged from drug and alcohol abuse, housing insecurity, food access, education, etc. It was clear that their time spent on these topics either taught them new things or reinforced what they already felt.

Following their powerful words was what had originally been a set time to screen their film. Due to unforeseen technical issues, the attendees were not able to complete their screening. In lieu of this, however, members of the audience were invited to the stage to share their own words, speeches, or poetry in a moment of impromptu magic. Everyone in attendance left the event feeling assured with the future of Minneapolis being in these students’ hands.

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