Civic Leadership
The Latest
Advancing Equity Through Advocacy
In 2025, our legislative agenda focuses on critical issues such as education, economic mobility, and protecting our democracy. Read this story to learn more.
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The State of Minnesota Nonprofits
Watch this video to learn about new insights into Minnesota's nonprofit landscape.
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A Message from Our CEO
We can’t know what we will face over the next century, or even the next few years. What we do know is that none of us can, or should, shoulder the challenges alone, which means we need to continue to grow our generous community.
Communities are stronger when everyone participates in public discussion and decision-making about issues that affect their lives and our society as a whole. Explore how we partner with others to foster civic engagement, discourse, and advocacy.
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The Ames Fund: A lasting legacy in Northfield
The Ames Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation was created to invest in the health, well-being, and vibrancy of the community of Northfield, Minnesota. The Minneapolis Foundation served as the philanthropic advisor by researching and articulating the issues and needs of the community.
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The Power of Being Seen
The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota honored our Chief Impact Officer, Chanda Smith Baker, with the 2021 Mary Lee Dayton Catalyst for Change Award. Chanda’s acceptance speech inspired us, and so we wanted to share it with you.
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Decolonizing Wealth
This book by Edgar Villanueva gives a provocative analysis of the racist colonial dynamics at play in philanthropy and offers practical advice on how anyone can be a healer.
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The Arc Toward Justice
Westminster Town Hall Forum presents a special series of talks by racial justice leaders, addressing social and systemic change in the year since the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
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Giving More by Giving Together
Dig into the concept of giving circles, groups formed by ordinary people who pool their financial resources to give in ways that reflect their priorities.
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Celebrating 10 Years of Fourth Generation
Learn about Fourth Generation’s work to strengthen our community.
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Hope in the Struggle
Josie Johnson’s memoir digs into how she became one of the most well-known civil rights activists in Minnesota – fighting for fairness in voting, housing, education, and employment.
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Minnesota Foundations Unite to Push for Racial Justice
Minnesota’s strong philanthropic and nonprofit sector has its own problems with racial inequities.
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Fourth Generation Awards $76,000 in Climate Justice Grants
Fourth Generation wrapped up its 10th grantmaking cycle by awarding $76,000 in grants to eight local organizations.
Read StoryAbundant Cities
Abundant Cities brings together innovators working in Minneapolis and around the country to define new visions for urban areas. Join a cohort of changemakers who will help the best new ideas become reality here in Minneapolis.
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