Minnesota Rising

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] February 2012

2012-03-01T07:24:00.001-06:00

Published monthly, the [Minnesota Rising Dispatch] curates noteworthy events and opportunities for emerging leaders across Minnesota!

[#mnrising Dispatch] February 2012

Happy Leap Day! It comes but once every four years, but February 29 is a special reminder that the passage of time is more cyclical than it is linear. While an ever-increasing pace of life urges us to constantly do, achieve, and press on, the annual (or quadrennial) resetting of the calendar offers us the reassurance that we have been here before and that we will be here again.

In this regard, we know that political divisiveness and seemingly insurmountable challenges of disparities now loom large in our state, but we also know that Minnesotans have overcome these struggles in the past and that we can do it again. As we reflect on our unique time in the history of our communities and state, may we push forward to build trusting relationships and shape a powerful collective vision for Minnesota, knowing full well that ours can be a legacy that future generations will build upon!

Reportback: Communities Connections Conference

Jenny Hegland, Contributing Writer

Minnesota Rising hosted a table on February 9th at the first-ever Communities Connections Conference, "Building Better Communities through Neighborhoods” hosted by the City of Minneapolis’ Neighborhood and Community Relations department. The conference attendees were energized and engaged, as they learned together and spent time in community throughout the day.

At our table, we shared the purpose of Minnesota Rising with attendees and invited them to participate in our Cascading Conversations Tour. In an effort to learn from those we met, we asked participants to share their ideas in response to the question, “What is the boldest, most inspiring vision you hold for Minnesota’s future?” This activity reminded us just how much Minnesotans care about the future of our state and that there are deep values we hold in common. Here’s what we learned!

Advancing Cascading Conversations

The Advance Team for the"Our Minnesota" Cascading Conversations Tour is prepped and hard at work hosting conversations with young Minnesotans and building the Minnesota Rising network!

Interested in connecting with another emerging leader and extending the cascade of discussions around values and visions for the future of Minnesota? Write to us atminnesotarising@gmail.comto request an invitation to an hour-long conversation this Spring with a member of the Advance Team. We welcome you to join the cascade!

Making Our #MNRising Mark!

Don't forget to tag your upcoming emerging leader events, thoughts, musings, and more, #mnrising, on Twitter and Facebook. Let's aggregate and organize ourselves for increased interaction and potential for collaboration!

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Upcoming Events

Catch Minnesota Rising around town at these upcoming events!

Step Up to Diversity! What Can I Do NOW: Being the Diversity Competent Leader
Torch Community
Thursday, March 1
5:30pm - 8:30pm
Wells Fargo Center, Minneapolis

Student Civic Leadership Summit: Making Social Change Happen
Minnesota Campus Compact
Saturday, March 31
9:00am - 3:00pm
University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach Engagement Center


Copyright © 2012 Minnesota Rising, All rights reserved.

You're Invited: Laugh in Peace Tour

2012-02-29T08:27:00.000-06:00

Poverty, hunger, and cultural conflicts are grave issues that we have to contend with in our communities. These challenges are to be taken seriously. But just as much as we need critical thinking and compassionate dedication, we also need fun and good humor to be able to sustain ourselves personally and to grow our creativity. Enter the Minnesota Idea Open III and the Laugh in Peace Tour coming to the Varsity Theater next month. Join the rabbi, minister, and Muslim trio that brings a message of peace and unity, and start brainstorming your way to a #MIO3 submission!

So a Rabbi, Minister and Muslim Comedian Walk Into the Varsity...

This is no knock-knock joke. The Minnesota Idea Open is proud to bring the Laugh in Peace Tour to Minnesota. Join us on Thursday, March 15, 2012 at the Varsity Theater in Minneapolis for the first-ever Idea Open comedy show!

Be prepared for your face to ache as we laugh together across cultures and faiths! Our very special guests are professional stand-up comedians Rabbi Bob Alper, Rev. Susan Sparks and Azhar Usman.

Alper founded the Laugh in Peace Tour. To him, the most natural thing to do after serving congregations for 14 years as an ordained rabbi was to become a stand-up comedian. Makes sense to us. He's been doing the latter for more than 20 years, including appearances on Comedy Central and Showtime.

An even funnier story is the one about the trial lawyer turned comedian turned Baptist minister. Sparks is senior pastor of the historic Madison Avenue Baptist Church in New York City and tours nationally with the Laugh in Peace Tour. She also is the author of "Laugh Your Way to Grace: Reclaiming the Spiritual Power of Humor."

Alphabetically last but certainly not least is funny man Usman who describes himself as "intellectually White; emotionally Japanese; spiritually Indian; psychically Persian; physically Arab; artistically Southeast Asian; romantically Latino; and psychologically Black." (That's a long title for a business card.) He is co-founder of the comedy show, "Allah Made Me Funny," which features America's top Muslim comedians.

Join us for this very special Idea Open event! Click here to get your tickets online. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the show begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10, or $5 with a valid student ID. All tickets include complimentary valet parking. Ages 11 and up are welcome! After the show, join us for light appetizers and a chance to enter the Idea Open and submit your best idea to build bonds and work together across cultures and faiths in your community. Your winning idea could receive $15,000 to become a reality.

Volunteer for the Interfaith Build Event

We're looking for volunteers with tool belts to participate in a unique interfaith event. Sign up now for the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity (TCHFH) and Idea Open event: Building Together Across Cultures and Faiths. TCHFH is hosting several special construction days that bring together volunteers from diverse backgrounds to build homes - and ideas - for the community.

There is still room to sign up for a variety of dates between February 28 and March 24. Be sure to spread the word to your friends, family and networks! No building experience required! Learn more at http://blog.tchabitat.org/IdeaOpen.

Stay Connected

The Idea Open is always cracking jokes on Twitter and Facebook.

The Idea Open Challenge III: Working Together Across Cultures and Faiths and Laugh in Peace Tour are made possible by One Nation and three affiliates of Minnesota Philanthropy Partners: Minnesota Community Foundation, Multicultural Endowment and Facing Race. Learn more at onenationfoundation.org and mnpartners.org.

Game On.

Minnesota Idea Open

A venture of Minnesota Community Foundation

You're Invited | The Non-Nonprofit: Should Nonprofits Operate More Like Businesses?

2012-02-28T08:29:00.000-06:00

As the rise of L3Cs and social enterprises continue, it is clear that doing good is no longer relegated to the nonprofit or social sectors. While lines continue to blur between nonprofits, for-profits, and all the shades of gray between, Ashoka and the Greater Twin Cities United Way are hosting a forum to consider how nonprofits can leverage business practices for increased innovation and growth. Registration is currently capped, but you can still sign up for the waitlist for this free event!

Ashoka and Greater Twin Cities United Way Present:

The Non-Nonprofit: Should Nonprofits Operate More Like Businesses?

March 6; 4-6 p.m.

United Way--Stuart Wells Room

404 South 8th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Join United Way, Ashoka Twin Cities and local nonprofit leaders for an innovative and practical panel discussion on how nonprofits can measure what counts, be market driven and create economic value from social impact.

Nonprofits are changing and sector boundaries are blurring. In an increasingly entrepreneurial and competitive environment, a premium is placed on metrics of success.

Steve Rothschild, author of "The Non-Nonprofit: For-Profit Thinking for Nonprofit Success," will address critical questions confronting the sector, drawing on his experience-based principles to ensure nonprofits remain competitive. Our panel of social entrepreneurs, academics and nonprofit leaders will provide a variety of viewpoints and practical examples that you can take back to your organization.

Panelists:

Steve Rothschild - Ashoka Fellow and founder of Twin Cities RISE!
Joe Soss - Cowles Chair for the Study of Public Service at the University of Minnesota; co-author of "Disciplining the Poor: Neoliberal Paternalism and the Persistent Power of Race."
Sarah Caruso - president & CEO, Greater Twin Cities United Way
Tony Wagner - executive leadership fellow, Center for Integrative Leadership; former president, Pillsbury United Communities
Terrie Rose - Ashoka Fellow and founder of Baby's Space

Moderated by Laura Bloomberg, executive director, University of Minnesota Center for Integrative Leadership

Register Now

Contact Spectra Myers at Ashoka Twin Cities or Brian Paulson at United Way with questions.

Respond to the gift

2012-02-27T07:04:00.001-06:00

"To give thanks is to recognize what has come to you.... How does the seed give thanks? It flowers. You take what you have, who you are, and you respond to the gift of that beingness with a course of action that aligns with it. You do what is in your nature."

-Patrice Vecchione

Friday Fun | Guante "Starfish"

2012-02-24T07:50:00.000-06:00

Last month, I attended a benefit concert supporting a group working on the issue of massive foreclosures, largely in North Minneapolis neighborhoods. Guante was one of several spoken word artists and talented local musicians to grace the stage that night, performing his piece proclaiming, "I was struck by lightning." In it, he posits that those whom undergo powerful experiences, whether positive or negative, are given just that much energy, and that its their own choice whether and how they funnel it back out into the world. It's a compelling case that those who go through some of the hardest and most trying of struggles may be very well the most courageous and superhuman among us.

Below, for some Friday fun, I'm sharing Guante's "Starfish" piece. Enjoy!

You're Invited: League of Women Voters of St. Paul Young Professionals event

2012-02-23T07:56:00.001-06:00

With new redistricting maps out this week and a bevy of potential constitutional amendments proposed at the state legislature, there's plenty of politics and policy to be talking about. Find yourself in good company at the League of Women Voters St. Paul's first Young Professionals event. Enjoy drinks, free appetizers, and a wonderfully wonky environment for men and women alike!

The League of Women Voters of St. Paul is launching its first Young Professionals event!

Come enjoy drinks and free appetizers with policy students from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs!

Learn about volunteer and leadership opportunities with the League of Women Voters!

Come learn about and discuss Voter ID!

Open to Young Professionals and Student

Men and women welcome!

###

Mark your calendars!

March 1st

7:00-10:00

The Republic

221 Cedar Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55454

###

Connect with us on:

The League of Women Voters of St. Paul is a non-partisan organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. More information about LWVSP is available on our website: www.lwvsp.org.

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You're Invited: Connect Open House

2012-02-22T07:57:00.001-06:00

Hard hats, market trends in the housing industry, and door prizes. Aeon Connect will bring 'em all together at their Open House next week! Drop in to hear from a green building industry leader, learn about opportunities to engage with Aeon Connect, and take a tour of the new Aeon office site to be completed in mid-March. See more details below and reserve your spot in the fun by this Friday!

Connect, Aeon's Young Professionals group, is seeking new members to become a part of our Leadership Team. Join us for a time of informal networking and a brief program about team member roles, benefits and volunteer opportunities. There will also be a few fabulous door prizes, courtesy of US Bank!

Aeon donor Scott Weicht, President and Chief Innovation & Development Officer at Adolfson & Peterson Construction, will also be on hand to share his thoughts about market trends in the multi family housing industry, as well as the importance of building sustainably. A&P is a leader in green building - don't miss this opportunity to hear from him - and get your questions answered by an expert!

Additionally, you will be able to take a hard hat tour of Aeon's new office. Aeon will re-locate its administrative staff to this new space in mid-March.

Event Details

Date:
Wednesday, February 29

Schedule:
5 - 5:45 p.m. Check in & Mingle
5:45 - 6:30 p.m. Program
6:30 - 7 p.m. Hard Hat Tour
Refreshments and snacks will be served

Location:
Aeon's new office space
901 3rd Street North, Minneapolis 55401
There is a free surface parking lot, adjacent to the building

Space is limited. Please RSVP by Friday, February 24. We hope to see you there!

Can't attend but are interested in learning more about Connect?
Visit our webpage: http://www.aeonmn.org/connect.

Contact Jenny Johnson at jjohnson@aeonmn.org
or 612-341-3148, ext. 237 with questions.

You're Invited | Graze 4 Good: A Fundraiser to Benefit Fourth Generation

2012-02-21T08:48:00.000-06:00

As an aspiring foodie who's been to two of the three restaurants of the chefs featured at the upcoming Fourth Generation's Graze 4 Good event, I've got to say that my tastebuds are tickled! You're sure to enjoy sound nutrition advice, gain some insight into the local food community, and taste some savory treats while grazing for good. Buen provecho!

Calling all foodies!
Graze 4 Good

Eating amazing food is great. Eating amazing food while supporting an important cause is even better. Grab a group of friends and join Fourth Generation as we Graze 4 Good. We'll enjoy tasty bites from three local chefs:

Doug Flicker
Chef/Owner of Piccolo

Steven Brown
Partner/Executive Culinary Director of Tilia

Mike Brown
Chef/Owner of Travail Kitchen and Amusements

All funds raised at Graze 4 Good will support local nutrition and food justice programs.

Graze 4 Good is hosted by Fourth Generation members, a group of young professionals who donate time, skills, and money to make an impact on some of our community’s most pressing issues. A short program will begin at 4:30pm. You'll learn more about nutrition and food justice and hear from these talented chefs on their own experiences sourcing and cooking with local food.

Between member donations, matching gifts and proceeds from this event, this year we anticipate granting out over $30,000 to local organizations working in the area of nutrition and food justice. From community gardens and food shelves to support services for local farmers, members will identify and award grants to effective local nonprofits who are increasing healthy, accessible food for everyone in the Twin Cities. If you would like to make an additional contribution towards the grant making efforts please donate here.

Thank you to the chefs/owners of Piccolo, Tilia and Travail for their time and effort!

About Fourth Generation

Fourth Generation, a program of The Minneapolis Foundation, is the place for young professionals to learn about effective, meaningful charitable giving. Members pool their resources, learn about an issue in the community, make an investment in local nonprofits, and make a difference.

Whether you’re part of a family of givers, starting out on your own or you give with money, time or talents – Fourth Generation teaches skills to help you get the most out of your giving.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this event please contact Jeanna Hensler at 612.672.3837 orjhensler@mplsfoundation.org.

The Minneapolis Foundation | 80 South Eighth Street | IDS 800 | Minneapolis, MN 55402

In the service of that which is right

2012-02-20T07:12:00.003-06:00

‎"But the safety of the world, in some sense, depends on your saying 'no' to inhumane ideas. Standing up for one's own integrity makes you no friends. It is costly. Yet defiance of the mob, in the service of that which is right, is one of the highest expressions of courage I know."

-Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords

You're Invited | Inter-Generational Policy Tour Series: Transportation Policy

2012-02-17T07:50:00.000-06:00

Right on the heels of its 60th birthday, the Citizens League will be hosting an interactive inter-generational event! You can witness policy in action (and on tour) by learning about transportation policy and visiting the MnDOT Regional Transportation Management Center site. Space is limited, so reserve your slot today to get your wheels in motion around transportation and transit policy!

Tuesday, Feb. 28

5:30-7:30 p.m.

MnDOT Regional Transportation Management Center

1500 County Road B2 West, Roseville

Free for Citizens League members; $10 for non-members

Light snacks and beverages provided

Transportation policy affects us all: How we commute to work, what foods we can buy and whether we show up to a birthday party on time.

The Citizens League Emerging Leaders group presents the first event in its Inter-Generational Policy Tour Series, exciting opportunities to get behind-the-scenes looks at notable locations in Minnesota, followed by discussions with leading policy thinkers.

Discuss transportation policy and the nuts and bolts behind MnPASS lanes and other decongestion efforts with Brian Kary from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Adam Harrington of the Metropolitan Council and the Citizens League's Bob DeBoer.

Space is limited to the first 25 people to register.

You're Invited: Extreme Mind Makeover Edition‏!

2012-02-16T07:05:00.002-06:00

"Be careful of your thoughts, for your thoughts become your words.

Be careful of your words, for your words become your actions.
Be careful of your actions, for your actions become your habits.
Be careful of your habits, for your habits become your character.
Be careful of your character, for your character becomes your destiny."

This anonymously authored poem reminds us how critical it is to reflect on our conscious and unconscious thoughts, as they help to shape the world in which we operate and how we interact with others. To address how we can too easily be consumed with negative self-talk or just be unaware of our operating assumptions, Network Buzz is offering an interactive session to explore your day-to-day thoughts and how you can consider changing your thought patterns for a more productive and happier life!

Where:

Stella's Fish Cafe
1400 West Lake Street
Minneapolis, MN 55408

Driving Directions

When:
Wednesday February 22, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM CST
Add to my calendar

Have you ever said to yourself...

"What was I thinking?"
Why do I keep hearing these same old messages in my head?"
"How do I get rid of this head trash?"

Now's your opportunity to explore what you currently think and how it impacts your day-to-day life. When you intentionally change your thoughts, the end result is a happier more enjoyable life.

Please join us for this interactive session with Karen Black, an expert in leadership development, teambuilding, conflict resolution and executive coaching!

If you're interested in attending, click the link below to RSVP. For more information or to pay the $15 entrance fee, visit theNetwork Buzz website.

Register Now!

I can't make it

We're looking forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,

Jean.

You're Invited: Being the Diversity Competent Leader

2012-02-15T09:27:00.000-06:00

Minnesota Rising is pleased to partner with Torch Community on their upcoming event, "Step Up to Diversity! What Can I Do NOW: Being the Diversity Competent Leader!" Join us for an interactive evening with emerging leader peers, filled with engaging conversation topics and activities, and a sure-to-be-inspiring keynote speaker, Jermaine Davis. Register below and we'll see you soon!

You are invited to the following event:

Step Up to Diversity! What Can I Do NOW: Being the Diversity Competent Leader

Thursday, March 1, 2012 from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM (CT)

Wells Fargo Center
90 South 7th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55402

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Step Up to Diversity! What Can I Do NOW: Being the Diversity Competent Leader Thursday, March 1st
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Share this event on Facebook and Twitter

We hope you can make it!

Cheers,
Torch Community

Reportback: Minnesota Rising at Minneapolis Communities Connections Conference

2012-02-14T07:55:00.003-06:00

Post and photo from the matron of the Minnesota Rising Cascading Conversations Tour, Ms. Jenny Hegland!

Minnesota Rising hosted a table at Saturday’s first-ever Communities Connections Conference, "Building Better Communities through Neighborhoods” hosted by the City of Minneapolis’ Neighborhood and Community Relations department. The conference attendees were energized and engaged, as they learned together and spent time in community throughout the day.

At our table, we shared the purpose of Minnesota Rising with attendees and invited them to participate in our Cascading Conversations Tour. In an effort to learn from those we met, we asked participants to share their ideas in response to the question, “What is the boldest, most inspiring vision you hold for Minnesota’s future?” This activity reminded us just how much Minnesotans care about the future of our state and that there are deep values we hold in common. Here’s what we learned!

What is the boldest, most inspiring vision you hold for Minnesota’s future?

Those with the least are invested in the most and we all rise together
Everybody has the same chance to affordably go to college
Less pollution. More recycling.
Leadership represents urban demography
Fewer power plants
Celebration of our differences for many more generations to come
Peace
Reducing disparities at all levels
Bringing all different communities together to see what it uplifts
Localized food system with equal access to education, space to grow, places to buy (healthy, affordable, culturally appropriate foods)
One love
No more war. Peace.
An expansive middle class
Gay people will be able to get married
Eliminating poverty and racism
All American Indians graduate with support from all communities & engagement!
If bullying would stop, our youth can live in a community and go to school without being judged or discriminated
Sustainable infrastructure
Equal opportunities for all people so that everyone can have a better life and truly be happy
True equality for people of all races, economic classes, and with different outlooks on life
Local resilience
Safety
People joined by regional economies, especially local food
Equal rights
Enhancing the overall quality of living in urban communities through clean energy
Sparkling clean water throughout the natural systems
Equality and peace
For women to have the same equal rights as men
100% renewable electricity in 10 years
Racial, economic, and gender equality
No war & racism
Marriage equality
Everyone can find great employment
Black Americans are embraced and allowed to have a gathering place for businesses
Access to organic, local, and affordable food
Affordable education for all
Embrace newcomers
No war and discrimination
Peace and hard work
Employment for all who desire to work at $12/hr. or higher
Open streets every Sunday throughout various neighborhoods (Ciclovias)
Figure out how to build a well-functioning transportation system
Transportation! High speed rail, expansion of LRT, local street car lines in urban neighborhoods

All that you had for justice

2012-02-13T07:41:00.001-06:00

We are in for a very long haul. I am asking for everything you have to give.

We will never give up.

Your will lose your youth, your sleep, your patience, your sense of humor and sometimes the understanding and support of people you love.

In return, I have nothing to offer you but your pride in being part of the struggle,

And all the dreams you have ever had,

For your children,

And your grandchildren,

And the future;

And the certain knowledge, that at the end of your days,

You will be able to look back and say for all of your life,

You gave all that you had,

For justice.

-From a speech by Jill Ruckleshaus

You're Invited | Serious Issues: Improv Comedy return to HUGE Theater

2012-02-10T07:16:00.001-06:00

Tane Danger and Brandon Boat are seriously funny. And they're proving it every Thursday night in February and March! Join them, and the cast of characters at The Theater of Public Policy, to contend with the most pressing challenges facing Minnesota today using one of the most dangerous weapons of all: laughter. See below for their upcoming schedule and be sure to check them out online as well as onstage!

Serious Issues - Improv Comedy return to HUGE Theater

We are extremely excited to announce a new season of The Theater of Public Policy (T2P2) atHUGE Theater. Our cast is gearing up to explore immigration, education, the 2012 legislative session, energy infrastructure, the environment, and a new Vikings stadium, through improv comedy.

We hope you'll join us each Thursday at 7pm at HUGE Theater in Uptown Minneapolis.

For those of you who have never been to a show, we use conversations with big thinkers on big ideas as inspiration for long-form improvisational theater.Each show opens on an interview with a leading policy maker or advocate on a particular issue. Our cast unpacks and re-imagines those ideas, debates, anecdotes, memes, and opinions, live and unscripted on stage.

We have a terrific five-minute video (with guest Cris Farrell) that highlights what we do and why it's so fun and thought-provoking. Click here:

T2P2 would like to thank inCommons and the Citizens League for their support.
This season promises fascinating conversations and insightful comedy on some big issues. For more details on each topic, visit our website,www.T2P2.net.

February 2: Immigration and Higher Education
Guests: Annie Levenson-Falk of the Citizens League and Juventino (Juve) Meza of NAVIGATE.

February 9: MN Legislature 2012
Guest: Lori Sturdevant, columnist/writer with the Star Tribune.

February 16: Teachers and School Bullying
Guest: Julie Blaha, President of Anoka-Hennepin Education Minnesota

February 22: Civic Design
Guest: Nate Garvis from Naked Civics

March 1: Energy Infrastructure
Guest: Maggie Koerth-Baker from Boing Boing

March 8: Vikings Stadium
Guest: Cory Merrifeld, founder of SaveTheVikes.org

March 15: Farm to Chef
Guest: Lee Ergstrom from Minnesota 2020

March 22: Politics in Minnesota
Guest: Sarah Janacek, former editor of Politics in Minnesota

March 29: Water
Guest: Peggy Knapp of the Freshwater Society

In addition to a great line-up of guests, we've added three veteran improvisers to our cast: Jen Scott, Eric Simons, and Maggie Sotos. We've also left a healthy 45 minutes at the end of each show for audience members to mingle with the cast and expert guest.

Shows start each Thursday at 7pm @ HUGE Theater - 3037 Lyndale Ave South, Minneapolis. It's going a great season! Don't miss it!

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Collaborate with T2P2!

T2P2 is interested in working with you! We can tailor a show for your organization or conduct a training that teaches communication skills and teamwork. Contact us for more information.

An interview with leading thinkers.

Exploring ideas through improv comedy.

You're Invited: 2nd annual Warm Up in the Wild!

2012-02-09T07:15:00.001-06:00

We were plenty pleased to have AZUL serve as a Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference Network Partner and even more thankful that they'll be hosting their second annual Warm Up in the Wild event next week! Even if it hasn't been as cold as usual this year, the gray winter skies of late aren't exactly inspiring. Which is why playing beach games, enjoying tropical cocktails, and hanging out on the Tropics Trail at the Zoo can be just the ticket for remembering that summer will someday come again to Minnesota! #monkeyseemonkeydo!

Join us for the 2nd annual Warm Up in the Wild event at the Minnesota Zoo!

Put your feet in the sand, play beach games, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, quench your thirst with tropical cocktails at our fully stocked cash bar, and visit with a colobus monkey or two as you wind your way down Minnesota Zoo's Tropics Trail.

DATE:	Friday, February 17, 2012
TIME:	6:00PM-9:00PM
LOCATION:	Tropics Trail at the MN Zoo 13000 Zoo Boulevard Apple Valley, MN 55124 Map It: Click here

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
6:00PM - 7:30PM Networking, Cocktails and Food in the Tropics Trail

7:30PM - 8:00PM AZUL Welcome & address from Minnesota Zoo Director/CEO Lee Ehmke

8:00PM - 9:00PM Music, Cocktails, Networking & Beach Games

TICKETS:
AZUL Members: FREE
Not an AZUL Member? For only $85 you can become an annual member of AZUL and receive a variety of benefits like this.
Join Today!

Non-members:
$20/person Early Registration - Buy your Ticket on or before 2/10 and save $5!
$25/person after 2/11 and (Including at the door)

RSVP:
Please click here to register

Dress:
Beach attire encouraged.

You're Invited | Mission Possible: Don't Let Insecurities Sabotage Your Job Search

2012-02-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

This past weekend, we kicked off the first workshop for the 2012 LOTT Fellows program, and were delighted at the great matches the collegiate and emerging women leaders have made with their mid-career and beyond mentors! With a morning program focused on leveraging and honing strengths, we acknowledged that rabbits should not feel bad for being unable to fly but instead can work to increase their natural running skills and speed. With this foundation of confience, we can turn to the lessons of the upcoming Mission Possible: Don't Let Insecurities Sabotage Your Job Search panel, which yours truly is excited to be hosting with some amazing women leaders. Join us later this month, men and women alike, to consider how to overcome insecurities and make great first (and lasting) impressions!

Mission Possible: Don't Let Insecurities Sabotage Your Job Search will be held Tuesday, February 28, 2012. Attendees will be given the opportunity to hear from employment experts and receive advice on how to overcome their insecurities and make a great impression. The information from this panel is applicable to anyone in their career field, whether they are just beginning their job search or transitioning to a new position.

The following speakers will serve on the panel: Stacy Doepner-Hove – LWVMN President, Director of the Master's Program in Human Resources and Industrial Relations at University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management; Sally McGraw – Already Pretty Blogger/Body Image Writer; Mishel Horta – Diversity Coordinator at Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi L.L.P.; and Abigail Lessnau - HR Generalist at Cummins Power Generation. Diane Tran - Project Manager at Grassroots Solutions, Former LWVMN Board Member, and LOTT AC Member will serve as the moderator.

You're Invited: Communities Connections Conference, "Building Better Communities Through Neighborhoods"

2012-02-07T07:13:00.001-06:00

Minnesota Rising is excited to be hosting a Cascading Conversations booth at the first annual Minneapolis Communities Connections Conference, "Building Better Communities Through Neighborhoods," this Saturday! Drop on by to visit with neighborhood organizations, cultural communities, nonprofit organizations, City departments and residents or check out one of the 16 workshops being offered that day. The event is free and offers best practices in neighborhood engagement and organizing, so register today to save your seat!

1st Annual Community Connections Conference

"Better Communities through Neighborhoods"

The City of Minneapolis’ Neighborhood and Community Relations department is hosting the first-ever Communities Connections Conference, “Building Better Communities Through Neighborhoods”, onSaturday, Feb. 11, 2012 from 8:00am-5:00pm at the St. Mary’s University Event Center – 2540 Park Avenue South (formerly known as the Zuhrah Shrine Event Center). The cost is FREE!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Register Now!
You can also, View the Workshop Descriptions
Agenda
Neighborhood Cafe Schedule

This new conference is specifically designed for neighborhood organizations, cultural communities, nonprofit organizations, City departments and residents to share best practices of neighborhood engagement. In addition, the conference will introduce people to new and innovative ideas for working within communities and neighborhoods. A major theme of the conference is building diversity and increasing participation in neighborhood organizations and communities.

Angela Glover Blackwell, president and CEO of PolicyLink, a national research and action institute working to advance economic and social equity, will give the keynote address.

The conference will include 16 concurrent workshops. The topics include: Minneapolis One Read, bridging the digital divide, reducing waste at local events, social justice, neighborhood safety and success stories of collaborations with City departments. There will also be neighborhood and community booths, a Neighborhood Café, food from communities throughout the city, local cultural entertainment and a closing reception. The Neighborhood and Community Relations department supports the city’s 71 neighborhood organizations, which serve as the City’s primary community engagement infrastructure. The department also has an Access and Outreach team whose focus is to support engagement of all residents particularly where cultural norms or customs, language or disabilities limit access.

Information Table Registration: We invite you to present your best at this 1st annual Community Connections Conference and showcase your organization or project! For more information, download the registration form.

Directions and Parking for the St. Mary's Event Center

For more information about the event contact Carrie Day Aspinwall (612) 673-2243.

It is I who must begin

2012-02-06T07:23:00.002-06:00

It Is I Who Must Begin

It is I who must begin.

Once I begin, once I try --

here and now,

right where I am,

not excusing myself

by saying things

would be easier elsewhere,

without grand speeches and

ostentatious gestures,

but all the more persistently

-- to live in harmony

with the "voice of Being," as I

understand it within myself

-- as soon as I begin that,

I suddenly discover,

to my surprise, that

I am neither the only one,

nor the first,

nor the most important one

to have set out

upon that road.

Whether all is really lost

or not depends entirely on

whether or not I am lost.

-Vaclav Havel

You're Invited: Young Professional Group Conversation

2012-02-03T07:35:00.000-06:00

These informal brown bag lunches, coordinated by Jenny Johnson of Aeon, have grown to be a helpful forum for discussing nonprofit young professionals group best practices and for connecting across organizations and interest areas. If you've got some successes from 2011 to celebrate and some plans in the works for 2012, drop on in to see what might spring up in advice-sharing or new collaborations for the year ahead. Social hour kicks off at 11:45am, followed by discussion at 12 noon, and you're invited to bring your lunch. Register online to save your seat now!

I am happy to announce the next non-profit Young Professional Group conversation will be on Friday, February 10 at Open Arms Minnesota – I hope many of you will be able to join us!

What: YPGs: Focus on something that was great about 2011 and plans/events for 2012
When: Friday, February 10
Time: 11:45 – 1 p.m.
Where: Open Arms of Minnesota
2500 Bloomington Ave S, Minneapolis

We plan to focus this conversation time on talking about one thing that was really successful for your group in 2011 and possible events for 2012. I’d also love to discuss ideas around some potential collaborative partnerships if everyone else is interested in that also. If you have questions that you’d like to have addressed during this conversation, please let me know.

The event is free and please bring your lunch if you’d like. No advertising budget for this group so your help in spreading the word to colleagues and other network connections is much appreciated. The more of us who are there to share ideas, the better the discussion!

Please register at http://ypgdiscuss.eventbrite.com/ so we know how many people to set up for and expect.

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] January 2012

2012-02-02T08:20:00.000-06:00

[#mnrising Dispatch] January 2012

Happy New Year! It's 2012, the Year of the Dragon, and Minnesota Rising is excited for all that the year ahead promises! We've got some great things planned, including scaling up our Cascading Conversations Tour, further integrating our digital presence and communications, and figuring out just how we can work to develop the collective capacity of the rising generation in Minnesota.

We imagine that there will be additional innovative collaborations, exciting relationships, and perhaps, interstate road trips, that may also emerge throughout this year. We hope you'll stay tuned and be a part of those efforts, and more, as we continue our efforts to build the network for what's next!

Cascading Conversations

The "Our Minnesota" Cascading Conversations Tour is well underwayand we're excited to see feedback coming in from conversations with young Minnesotans statewide!

To continue building momentum, we're putting out a call for the first group of forerunners to commit to completing three cascading conversations by the end of April 2012. Interested in connecting with other emerging leaders and building the Minnesota Rising network? Let us know you want in by Friday, February 10 at minnesotarising@gmail.com!

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Making Our #MNRising Mark!


Copyright © 2012 Minnesota Rising, All rights reserved.

You're Invited: A Toast to LEAD

2012-02-01T07:53:00.001-06:00

The LEAD Project is celebrating its 5th anniversary this month, true to form, with a signature event to highlight the many nonprofit organizations that they've partnered with over the past five years. Featuring amazing young professionals and nonprofits, tantalizing appetizers, and an open bar all evening, you'll want to make sure to be there for an historic event and to toast to LEAD!

You're Invited | LiFe LaB: Find Your Formula for Change

2012-01-31T08:50:00.001-06:00

Living life well can be a form of art. YNPN-TC supposes that there may be a bit of science to it, too. If you're feeling stuck in your career or have goals but are unsure what to do next, you're invited to attend their upcoming Life Lab event to find your formula for change! See below for more details and to prep for your time in the lab.

You are invited to attend:

LiFe LaB: Find Your Formula for Change

Tues., Feb. 21 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Registration Starts at 5:30 pm, Program at 6 pm

As research and personal experience teaches us, goals alone don't change behavior. If that's the case, how can you move forward in your career and your life?

At this session, coach Beth Wallace will challenge you to notice where you're getting stuck, help you design progress toward your goals, and teach you how to keep going even through resistance.

Through a combination of demonstration and small group work, you will learn how to:

Identify what you're really struggling with
Get clear about what you want and plan movement in that direction
Reflect on how your plan is working
Stay accountable with social support

Join us on February 21 to learn a more complete strategy for solving professional problems and loving your work.

Space is limited. Register now.

PARKING

Limited free parking is available at the lot at 1200 Washington Ave S. Additional parking is available for a dollar an hour on the street, and at the Guthrie parking lot at 818 2nd St S.

MEET THE SPEAKER

Coach Beth Wallace helps people get unstuck.

Beth has spent thirty years working in nonprofit organizations in Vermont and Minnesota, and has been working for herself since 2005. In addition to coaching, she is a book editor who helps people get their big ideas into print. Beth is a graduate of the Vermont Community Fund's year-long Organizational Development Institute, the Coaches Training Institute, and Carleton College.

She is one of the founders and the editor-in-chief ofRainbow Rumpus, the award-winning online magazine for kids with LGBT parents. Beth lives in south Minneapolis, where she has two cats, too big a garden, and too much yarn.

You can find Beth on Twitter at @greenmtngirl and atBethWallaceCoaching.com.

EVENT SPONSOR

Attend Event

The power of generosity

2012-01-30T07:23:00.002-06:00

"If you knew what I know about the power of generosity, you would not let a single meal go by without sharing it."

-Buddha

You're Invited: Caucus and Convention Training!

2012-01-27T07:38:00.000-06:00

2012 is a big year. It's the Citizens League's 60th Anniversary, the Centennial Celebration for my alma mater, the College of St. Scholastica, and of course, a presidential election year. In order to make sure you're prepped for the Republican and Democratic caucuses coming up in the next couple of weeks, The White House Project invites you to join them for Caucus and Convention Training. Women of all political stripes and experiences are welcome, and given the partisanship and gridlock of late, we need new and collaborative voices across the political spectrum to create a vision for where we can go together. Join in and help constructively influence the conversation in a big way this big year!

Join Us for Caucus and Convention Training

When: Monday January 30th, 5:30-8:00PM
Where: The White House Project Office

Join us for Caucus and Conventions Prep, a workshop to gain insight into the one of the most influential parts of the election process. Co-leaders Jennifer DeJournett and Laura Nevitt will dive into the basics of both the Republican and Democratic caucus and convention processes during this non-partisan training. Women of all political stripes and political experience are welcome.

Precinct caucuses are on February 7th. Get Prepared! Contact Allie at aarends@thewhitehouseproject.org to register.

Survey Invitation: Engaging Millennials in Workplace Health and Wellness

2012-01-26T07:18:00.001-06:00

Here at Minnesota Rising, we try to make it possible to share what you're up to, have your voice heard, and help others out. Following is an opportunity to tackle all three objectives in one fell swoop; you can share your opinion in an anonymous survey to support Nicole's graduate research project to determine what practices are most effective to foster engagement with Millennials in workplace health and wellness initiatives. Please take 5 minutes to provide your feedback and ideas to assist Nicole on her educational journey. And feel free to send your own requests and updates to the blog as we continue building and supporting the network for what's next!

Survey Invitation: Engaging Millennials in Workplace Health and Wellness

You are invited to participate in a research study involving a short survey on engaging Millennials in workplace health and wellness initiatives.

Your participation is voluntary and responses are confidential and anonymous. The survey will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. By completing the survey you are indicating your consent to participate in this research study.

Your responses will help shape recommendations on effective practices for engaging the Millennial generation in workplace health and wellness.

If you have any questions regarding the survey, please contact Nicole Charboneau at nlcharboneau@stkate.edu.

I appreciate your participation and thank you for your time.

Follow this link to the survey: http://tinyurl.com/7hz7pll

You're Invited: Citizens League Emerging Leaders "Civic Trivia Happy Hour"

2012-01-25T07:53:00.002-06:00

Do you know when Minnesota officially gained statehood? Or how many governors we've had? Or what laws and policies have helped shape this place we call home over the years? I can't be too sure what questions will be asked tonight during the Citizens League Civic Trivia Happy Hour, but I don't doubt you'll regardless walk away more knowledgeable about this special place. And thus even more well equipped to be a part of creating its fantastic future! And remember, when in doubt, always go with option C.

Wednesday, January 255:30pm - 7:30 pm | Trivia starting at 6:30pmSweeney's Saloon96 Dale Street North, Saint Paul
Register Now

Join the Citizens League for some Minnesota Civic Trivia on January 25 at Sweeney's Saloon in St. Paul. Show off your knowledge of all things Minnesota while meeting and networking with other Citizens League members.

This Happy Hour is hosted by the Emerging Leaders Committee and is open to all current and potential Citizens League members. New members are encouraged to attend!

You're Invited: MINN's Chinese New Year Happy Hour!

2012-01-24T07:04:00.000-06:00

Happy Lunar New Year! Gong hay fat choy! Chuc mung nam moi! There's lot to look forward to as we celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Dragon. Join the Minnesota International NGO Network to cheers the occasion. Here's wishing y'all good health, fortune, and happiness in the year ahead!

MINN's Chinese New Year Happy Hour

2012 is the year of the Dragon in Chinese Zodiac. According to Chinese lore it's a year for taking risks, colorful personalities, and periodic tension headaches. So why not step out on a limb

and attend MINN's Chinese New Year Happy Hour? We promise lots of colorful personalities and a happy hour menu so delicious it'll wash away any tension headache.

This very special MINN social event is set for Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at Pagoda in Dinkytown (1417 4th Street Southeast, Minneapolis, MN 55414-2001). MINN members and friends will be there from 5:30-7:30pm. Everyone is welcome!

MINN social events are a terrific way to meet new people working in the industry and make connections that can last a career. It's a low-pressure, fun way to make new friends and learn about what others working in the international nonprofit field are doing.

There is no charge to attend this event however a $5 donation per person is encouraged.

Parking is located around back with additional on street metered parking in the eventthe lot fills up. Check out the Pagoda website at http://www.pagodadinkytown.com/ for complete parking details and directions.

Your RSVP information will help us make sure we have enough space set aside for this event as well as plan future events, so please let us know that you are planning to attend by emailing your RSVP to Sara at sstalland@gmail.com.

Be a dragon and come out for this great event.

Look always forward

2012-01-23T07:20:00.003-06:00

Take a deep breath of life

and consider how it should be lived....

Call nothing your own except your soul.

Love not what you are, but only what you may become.

Do not pursue pleasure

for you may have the misfortune to overtake it.

Look always forward:

in last year's nest, there are no birds this year.

-Dale Wasserman

You're Invited | Setting the Mark: For Me and Minnesota Workshop

2012-01-20T08:29:00.002-06:00

It's that time of year to be thinking about New Year's Resolutions and Minnesota Rising invites you to an interactive workshop focused on personal leadership development and goal-setting in the context of community. We'll come together with ideas, questions, and people who can challenge us to reflect on what we want out of life, clarify goals for the new year, and dream about the future of our communities and state. Join us to make plans for a fantastic 2012!

Minnesota Rising "Setting the Mark for Me and Minnesota" Interactive Workshop

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

5:30pm - 8:30pm

Grassroots Solutions

RSVPs requested to minnesotarising (at)gmail.com.

[2011 Un/Conference] Laura Zabel Keynote: Love something, do something

2012-01-19T07:14:00.000-06:00

@LauraZabel, our Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference keynote tweeted us the other week with a blog post based on her speech, and we agree with Joe Spencer that her message is brilliant! Check it out, and in 2012, may you: love something, do something!

love something. do something.

Posted by Laura Zabel on January 04, 2012

Happy New Year! This is the time of year that makes us think about setting goals and making plans. But as much as we plan, we can’t predict the future--we don’t ever know with any certainty what the world will be like tomorrow. All we can do is put our ear to the ground, listen to the distant signals, and see if we can make a good guess. Here’s my best guess: I think what’s next is about collaboration and new ways of converging ideas. New models for solutions, for partners and resources. Because in my own work, I see that our biggest successes have come when we’ve reached out to nontraditional partners, borrowed models and platforms from other sectors, and found support in unlikely places. That’s been true in partnerships in healthcare,entrepreneurship, local food and major infrastructure development. And those ways of converging ideas and bringing art and artists to new tables and involving them in the whole of their community have brought new attention and new resources.

The reassuring part about this way of working is that we have everything we need.You have everything you need. It’s just a matter of being curious enough to discover new ways of doing things, open enough to finding new resources. And, building a network – a big one. If you’ll go along with me and say that what’s next is about these new combinations of existing solutions, then we’re going to need a big network of people to find the overlaps, the gaps and the smart new combinations, right? How do we do that?

I think it’s as simple as this: love something. do something.

Love something. Do you know what you love? What you believe in so deeply that you can taste it? I’m talking about something different than a cause you care about or a topic you know a lot about. I mean deep, passionate love. The neuroscientist Jonah Lehrer has a great essay that uses the word “grit” to describe this – the thing that you just can’t let go of, that never gets comfortable or complacent. What do you wake up in the morning thinking about? If you don’t know what it is yet, that’s ok – try on some different hats, see what sticks. You’ll know it when you find it. But don’t settle for “good work”, or a mission statement, or a job you can feel good about. Good is not the same as love. Once you find it, share it. Wear your heart on the outside. People respond to passion. This is the whole beauty of TEDtalks, right? Watching people talk about what they love is motivating and inspiring, it makes you love what they love for a moment. I’m a shy person, but I can talk to you forever about the need for artists in our communities. People have really good radar for authenticity. And once you find the thing you love, that you can speak about from your heart and your gut, you’ll find that it’s easy to talk about and that it draws people to you who are interested in the same thing and who want to share their ideas, work together, make something happen with you.

Do something. Take that love and do something – you don’t need permission, or money, or an organization – just do. When you do something you believe in, when you put your idea or your solution into the world, even in a small way, people will notice – and you’ll find the people who want to help pretty fast. What’s something you can do today? Please don’t wait around for someone to invite you, or ask you or tell you – the world needs your ideas, your solutions, your love.

Love something. Do something.

-laura

You're Invited: Comprehensive Community Development in the Metropolitan Context

2012-01-18T07:08:00.000-06:00

As GreaterMSP and other regional partnerships would portend, there is a value to connecting across neighborhoods and locality for greater cooperation and collaboration. The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis Community Development Department will be hosting the second event in their Connecting to Market Series: Neighborhoods and Housing Markets later this month. The topic of comprehensive community development in the metropolitan context will consider the implications of the foreclosure crisis and the pattern of distress on future development throughout the Twin Cities region. See the agenda below and consider attending to become a part of the effort to create a stronger regional and district in the years to come!

Connecting to Markets: Neighborhoods and Housing Markets- Comprehensive Community Development in the Metropolitan Context

Minneapolis, MN

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Event Details

AGENDA

Monday, January 23

Networking breakfast

9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.

Welcome and introduction

10:15 to 10:30 a.m.

Dorothy Bridges, Senior Vice President, Community Development and Outreach, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

Andriana Abariotes, Executive Director, Twin Cities LISC

National Panel with Q & A (Broadcast live via satellite)

10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Robert Weissbourd, Principal, RW Ventures (Overview)

Panel

Raphael Bostic, Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Develoment (invited)

George Galster, Professor of Urban Affairs, Wayne State University

Chrystal Kornegay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Urban Edge

MODERATOR: Lee Fischer, President and CEO, CEOs for Cities

Break

12:15 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Lunch

12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

(Lunchtime will include opportunity to discuss national panel issues with other attendees)

Regional Panel with Q & A

1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Cathy Capone Bennett, Housing Initiative Director, Urban Land Institute

Melvin Carter, Council Member, Saint Paul City Council

Kathy Wetzel-Mastel, Executive Director, PRG

MODERATOR: Susan Haigh, Chair, Metropolitan Council

Closing remarks and adjourn

2:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

You're Invited: What are we (or aren’t we) doing about childhood obesity?

2012-01-17T07:07:00.000-06:00

Last year, I was pleased to join the Governing Council of the Minnesota Public Health Association and have since enjoyed getting to know and work with other members of the board of directors. Our 2011-2012 Policy Forum Series asks, "What Plagues Our Children?" The second installment in the series focuses on the obesity epidemic and considers perceptions of weight, the impact of programs tackling obesity and physical activity issues, and efforts to promote healthy eating habits in children. Join us in this critical conversation and work for the health of Minnesota's future generations!

What Plagues our Children?

Our 2011-2012 policy forum series explores topics related to the health of our children. Panelists and forum participants will focus this discussion on the problem of childhood obesity. Topics will include changing perceptions about weight, the impact of programs to address obesity and physical activity, and the changing views about promoting healthy eating habits in children. David Golden, MPHA President-elect, will moderate the forum.

Please plan on joining MPHA colleagues and friends as we explore:

What are we (or aren’t we) doing about childhood obesity?

January 20, 2012 7:30-9:00am

Minnesota Department of Health

Snelling Office Park

1645 Energy Park Drive
Saint Paul, MN 55108

A breakfast of locally produced and organic foods will begin at 7:00am. The cost of the forum is $8 for MPHA members, $15 for non-members and $5 for students.

There will be plenty of free parking.

Build it into your day

2012-01-16T07:58:00.002-06:00

"Whatever it is you want in the future, build it into your day today. If you want music and poetry and humor and revolution, build music and poetry and humor and revolution into each day, and you will get there."

-Gloria Steinem

You're Invited | Sunshine and Showers: A Nonprofit Forecast for 2012

2012-01-13T08:54:00.001-06:00

I'm excited about this upcoming Young Nonprofit Professionals Network - Twin Cities event with The Theater of Public Policy for a number of reasons. First, it involves improv. Second, there are some prominent and knowledgeable nonprofit women leaders sharing their insights and predictions as to what 2012 holds. Most importantly, though, I'm excited because these two groups first connected at the Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference! Collaboration borne out of collaboration. My predicted forecast? Pure sunshine!

You are invited to attend:

Sunshine and Showers: A Nonprofit Forecast for 2012

YNPN is thrilled to partner with the Theater of Public Policy on January 27 to help forecast what 2012 has in store for the nonprofit sector. Come hear local luminaries talk about what they think the new year holds for the nonprofit world and stay to see their predictions played out (literally) by a group of improv professionals.

First, find out what nonprofit experts Marcia Avner, Senior Fellow for the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Shelia Smith, Executive Director of the Minnesota Center for the Arts, foresee for 2012. Then watch the improv artists from the Theater of Public Policy demonstrate these predictions before your very eyes. You'll also

be able to network with other YNPN members,
get a taste of improv theater (widely acclaimed to help professionals think more creatively and nimbly in a professional setting), and
equip yourself with what you need to know to be a more strategic nonprofit professional in 2012.

It'll be fun, we promise! Hope to see you there!

TICKETS: $5 for YNPN-TC members, $10 for non-members. (All proceeds go to the Theater of Public Policy and the Lowry Lab Theater.)**

Not a member yet? Register in our membership directory and you're in! Feel free to bring partners or friends that aren't in the nonprofit sector–this improv will be fun for all!

**Payment for this event is made through The Theater of Public Policy's PayPal account, so you'll see the name "Tane Danger" when you register.

Lowry Lab Theatre
350 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, Minnesota 55102

Thanks to our event partners:

Theater of Public Policy and the Lowry Lab Theater – a space from the Theater Space Project

PARKING: The Lowry and Victory ramps are located on the same block as the Lowry building, and cost $4 with a Lowry Lab Theater Ticket. Metered street parking is also available–many meters are free after 4:30pm (please check carefully).

You're Invited: GenYWCA Happy Hour at Uptown Cafeteria!

2012-01-12T07:05:00.002-06:00

As a huge fan of Bananagrams, Boggle, Scrabble, and other word games, I'm intensely curious to know how the proposed networking game of "Boggle Blender" at the upcoming GenYWCA Happy Hour entails! Check it out for a chance learn more about the YWCA's early childhood education public policy work, and in delightfully coordinated fashion, forgo the typical event cover charge by donating preschool- or kindergarten-appropriate game or art supplies. F(4)-U(1)-N(1)!

GenYWCA is a fun new group of young leaders who support the mission of the YWCA of Minneapolis. Learn more at our first Happy Hour at Uptown Cafeteria!

When: Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Time: 6:00-8:30pm

--6:30pm - Networking game Boggle Blender (you can win a gift card to Uptown Cafeteria!)

--7:15pm - Short program highlighting our Early Childhood Education Public Policy work

Where: Uptown Cafeteria, 3001 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis (east end of Calhoun Square, off Lake Street)

In lieu of a "cover" charge, please bring a preschool- or kindergarten-appropriate game or art suppliesas a donation (suggestions on RSVP page linked below) or a cash donation to help provide such supplies. Suggested value of donation: $5 - $10/person. Every bit helps!

Please RSVP and learn more at: http://genywcahappyhour-18jan2012.eventbrite.com/

See you there!

PS: Can’t make it to the kickoff but want to join? Let Sarah know at sraser@ywcampls.org. GenYWCA will host a range of fun activities, events and volunteer opportunities throughout the year!

You're Invited: Navigating Incorporation Options for Social Enterprises

2012-01-11T07:23:00.002-06:00

As you consider how to be and what to do with your social good interests at the outset of 2012, the Twin Cities chapter of the Social Enterprise Alliance invites you to learn about navigating incorporation options for social enterprises. If your mission-driven and community engagement efforts could use some framework and infrastructure development, this may be a fruitful conversation and network for you and the year ahead!

The board of our Twin Cities chapter of the Social Enterprise Alliance is very excited to welcome you to our first gathering of the new year!

Event: Navigating Incorporation Options for Social Enterprises

Time & Date: 4:00 - 7:30 pm (includes social/networking time) Thursday, January 12th.

Place: University of St. Thomas - Minneapolis

Parking: street meters immediately surrounding the building, or the ramp adjacent to Terrance Hall.

What's the best corporate form to "do good"? Social enterprises often have flexibility with choices in that their approach to the market allows them a variety of incorporation options.

This educational event will help you explore some incorporation options, and hopefully allow you to come away with some useful ideas for your organization.

Additionally, we'll hear from leaders in the field of social enterprise to understand how they navigated the incorporation options for their enterprises.

Please come with your questions, and plan to join us for refreshments and networking following the educational event!

Click HERE to Register. FREE

You're Invited: @MinnesotaRising Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm!

2012-01-10T07:04:00.002-06:00

[January 11] @MinnesotaRising Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm

Are you a reader or a writer of the Minnesota Rising Blog? Or someone with opinions on how to make things more visually appealing or convene better discussions? Our conversation will focus on how to improve the communications and interactions between emerging leader groups and the Minnesota Rising network, with a central focus on how to leverage the blog and social media tools for the Cascading Conversations Tour. We welcome your big ideas and RSVPs at minnesotarising(at)gmail.com!

Minnesota Rising "Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm"
Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Grassroots Solutions
6:00pm - 8:00pm

Bend a little

2012-01-09T08:35:00.002-06:00

"Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend a little than to break."

-Jane Wells

Cast your vote for Grassroots Solutions' “Organizer of the Year!”

2012-01-06T08:03:00.001-06:00

We asked for your nominations for some of the most influential and skilled organizers during a big year of changemaking in 2011, and we got 'em! Now it's time to cast your vote for who inspires you the most! Remember the winner receives a prize of paid registration and travel stipend for the 2012 Netroots Nation conference in Providence, RI. Cast your vote today!

Meet Our Organizers!

Amanda Bell– “Amanda works her magic and people come together. Her skills and passion are motivating and epic.”

Amanda is a community organizer with Living Our Visions, Wisconsin, a grassroots organization of individuals with disabilities, families and community members building fulfilling, community centered lives for all citizens. Amanda’s supporters say that when she was handed a list of 300 families in need of services for their adult children with disabilities, she picked up the phone and developed a taste for coffee, spending two years in coffee shops listening deeply to anyone who wouldn’t hang up on her. She empowers families to "use what they have to get what they don't have" and helps them build a web of relational support to meet their needs.

Jonathan Perri– “Over the years, Jon has provided me with priceless wisdom, guidance, and insight, helping me become a better activist…”

Jon is a senior organizer for criminal justice at Change.org, the world’s fastest growing platform for social change that empowers an international network of people to fight for what’s right locally, nationally, and globally. Those who nominated Jon attest to his leadership, impact, and passion, citing Jon’s involvement as the reason why they became and continue to be involved in social change campaigns. Jon has been instrumental in raising awareness and fighting for the rights of people who simply do not have a voice due to their age, circumstances, or other factors.

Steve Fletcher – “If we all had Steve Fletcher’s energy – all things would be solved!”

Steve is the executive director of Minnesota Neighborhoods Organizing for Change, a nonprofit organization committed to building power in low-income and moderate-income neighborhoods in the Twin Cities through community organizing, civic engagement, and education. Neighborhood residents testify to the energy Steve has put into building a powerful neighborhood organization that fights for a fair economy, education and housing. Steve and his organization fought especially hard in North Minneapolis last year, where the community was crippled by one of the largest gaps in unemployment rates between whites and blacks in the country, a devastating tornado that left hundreds of families homeless, and eight school closings within three miles.

Voting is now open!

Cast your vote for “Organizer of the Year” today! The organizer with the most votes will receive complimentary registration to the 2012 Netroots Nation conference in Providence, RI, plus a $500 travel stipend. As an added bonus, the winner will also be featured on our annual holiday card that is mailed to thousands of people all across the country. Oh, and there might be some grassroots solutions and EchoDitto swag involved as well.

Voting is open until 5PM CST on Tuesday, January 10. Cast your vote today!

Sincerely,
grassroots solutions

You're Invited: Twin Cities Rotaract New Year Party!

2012-01-05T08:23:00.000-06:00

Sure, we're already a few days into 2012, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't stop celebrating the arrival of the new year yet. After all, it takes some of us a wee bit more time to stop writing 2011 and adjust to the current year. While others wait for us to catch up, they can join Twin Cities Rotaract in socializing and playing games at the Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul to welcome 2012 with style!

Wednesday, January 11, 2012
6:30pm - 8:30pm

Friends, Guests, Members and Alumni of Rotaract: Please join us for an evening of socializing, fun, and games to celebrate the NEW YEAR!

Get to know other enthusiastic young professionals that are passionate about serving their community. Learn more about the Twin Cities Rotaract in an informal environment with games, trivia, and networking.

APPETIZERS will be provided and a chance to win door PRIZES. Bring your friends for an evening of entertainment and getting to know others!

You're Invited: Small-Staff New Year's Celebration!

2012-01-04T07:39:00.001-06:00

Even in the midst of the start to a brand new year, some familiar things return to us: the State of the Union address, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and of course, the Students Today Leaders Forever (STLF) Small-Staff Celebration! Stop by next Thursday to make their New Year's happy hour even happier!

If you're booked that night, feel free to check out their next Under the Hood HH to learn more about STLF's work to reveal leadership and experience what it's like to go on a Pay It Forward Tour. All in 60 minutes!

In 2008 we started hosting SMALL STAFF celebrations. We figured the company picnic with 4 people, and the holiday party with 3 people was not quite the same feel as in larger organizations :).

This year, we are hosting a New Years Celebration!! There is no formal measure of a small staff so feel free to pass this along and please come! Here are some details:

When: Jan 12 (Thurs), 4:30-7:30pm
Where: Social Entrepreneur's House (Hinkle-Murphy Mansion)
What: Come hang out, meet some other organizations, have a FINNEGANS beer, and snack on some food.
RSVP: Please visit: go.stlf.net/smallstaffparty.

Guests are welcome and again, feel free to pass this on!

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] December 2011

2012-01-03T07:16:00.003-06:00

News from the Network

Accepting Applications: Institute for International Public Policy 2012 Fellows

UNCFSP
Deadline: February 12, 2012

2011 Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans: Nick Banovetz

MN Jaycees in partnership with MinnPost YPN

2011 Un/Conference Breakouts: Rinal Ray and Kelly Rowan + Race and Privilege

YNPN-TC

Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference

Blog Bytes

Final Cut: Words to Strike From Your Resume

[December 27]

Reportback: Minnesota Millennials Research Roundtable
[December 21]

Put it into words
[December 12]

Making Our #MNRising Mark!

Join the movement!

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] December 2011

From hosting our second annual Un/Conference to being featured in the October 2011 edition of the Minnesota Business Magazine to the launch of our Cascading Conversations Tour, we are pleased to be able to look back on this year with pride and amazement at how the network for what's next is being built through the collaborative efforts of so many! Thanks to each of you for your contributions to this community and to our shared effort on behalf of Minnesota. We're looking forward to a lot more strategizing, network-building, and collaboration next year and are hopeful that we'll get to work with you in 2012!

For a quick look back at we've been up to in 2011, check out theMinnesota Rising Blog 2011: Post Playback x 11. Otherwise, we hope to see you out and about at one of these upcoming events:

[January 25] "Setting the Mark for Me and Minnesota" Interactive Workshop

Minnesota Rising "Setting the Mark for Me and Minnesota" Interactive Workshop
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
5:30pm - 8:30pm
RSVP by Friday, January 21 (space is limited) to minnesotarising (at)gmail.com for location and logistical details.

[January 11] @MinnesotaRising Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm

Minnesota Rising "Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm"
Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Grassroots Solutions
6:00pm - 8:00pm

RSVPs requested to minnesotarising(at)gmail.com

Live. Now.

2012-01-02T07:34:00.001-06:00

"You don't get to choose how you're going to die. Or when. You can only decide how you're going to live. Now."

-Joan Baez

Minnesota Rising Blog 2011: Post Playback x 11

2011-12-30T08:40:00.007-06:00

Thanks again to all you readers for your support and engagement this year! May I present the Minnesota Rising Blog 2011: Post Playback x 11 for your reading pleasure:

1. More to the story: @MinnesotaRising 2011 Yes, Minnesota Rising is emergent, co-designed, and a bit ambiguous. But we've figured it out a bit more in 2011 about what and who we are and where we're going. Read more, and we invite you to join the story!

2. Friday Fun: Architects by Rise Against Because every movement needs an anthem. I submit this one for consideration: "Do you care to be the layers of the bricks that seal your fate? Or would you rather be the architects of what we might create?"

3. Use only what you need Word. Er, photo.

4. Will Minnesotans write a better future? We kicked off the Citizens League's 60th Anniversary Program late this year. This post includes Sean Kershaw's Star Tribune commentary that asks Minnesotans to dream bigger and plan for the long-term, with a future that begins in 2012!

5. Give it some gusto: Nuance in word and action I was invited to be a guest blogger on the YNPN-TC blog in March and used it to reflect on ways to become more intentional and creative on a daily basis. It's never too late to submit a comment!-)

6. Why We're Here: Twin Cities We sure do love it here! And we can put it into video footage and words. Check it out.

7. Thanks to the Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference Planning Crew! This year's Un/Conference was bigger and better in every way. And these people helped make it happen. Plus, their mugs and bios are completely adorbs!

8. Framing Open Questions These guidelines for asking searching and powerful questions are one of a number of tools I've picked up through my engagement with the InCommons Art of Hosting community this year. I hope they can be of use to you and yours in the next!

9. Cause for Connection: Mark and Lisa Adopt My friends, Lisa and Mark, are incredible people. And they are looking to become amazing parents. Can you help make the connection?

10. Report Roll: What Does the Next Generation of American Leaders Think? This study provides a quick and fascinating look into the minds and attitudes of rising leaders in the U.S., and gives us a sense for what's on tap for Minnesota's new guard.

11. Un/Conference Breakouts: Al Coleman's Secrets to Success Sure, Al Coleman was featured in the likes of Forbes magazine when he wrote and published his book this year, but he still made time to attend and present at the Minnesota Rising 2011 Un/Conference! For that, we are eternally grateful. And these insider tips aren't too bad, either.

Happy holidays and we look forward to working with you in 2012!

[Required Reading] CGE and Reciprocity: Recent Explorations

2011-12-29T07:27:00.001-06:00

I was fortunate to study abroad and away for nearly half of my college career, with comprehensive academic programs that combined service-learning and community engagement in meaningful and memorable ways. I spent a semester in Namibia and South Africa with Augsburg College's Center for Global Education with their "Nation Building, Globalization, and Decolonizing the Mind," program, and was pleased to see that their Fall 2011 newsletter included some research about the reciprocity that can result from these types of exchange programs. Check out the brief below and see how we can, indeed, be better together!

CGE and Reciprocity: Recent Explorations

Contributors: Ann Lutterman-Aguilar and Suyen Barahona Cuan

Reciprocity is a term used widely here at the Center for Global Education, and it is one that is gaining attention in the wider world of international education. We are pleased to see a growth in understanding about the actual exchange of benefit and harm that can occur when groups of North Americans travel to and live in another country or community.

Ann-Lutterman Aguilar’s Findings on Reciprocity in Mexico

Since reciprocity is a key element to our programming, it has been a significant asset to our organization. Ann Lutterman-Aguilar, site director in Mexico, has data from her doctoral research (see professional involvement section of Annual Report) that assists us in better understanding the exchanges we are making with communities in Mexico. While Ann’s research is primarily about vocation, a critical aspect of her research explores the question, “Do only U.S. students benefit from programs, or do Mexican community partners benefit as well? In other words, does reciprocity truly exist?” Ann’s research included data gathered from 105 Mexican community partners who answered questionnaires and participated in focus groups and in-depth interviews. The Mexican participants included members of host families, long- term guest speakers, and internship supervisors. The findings demonstrated that Mexican partners do indeed believe there is reciprocity existing in the intercultural encounters with U.S. students. Specifically, participants reported significant increases in their appreciation for and understanding of many forms of diversity, including greater appreciation for racial, religious, and sexual diversity. Another important impact of the intercultural encounters identified by Mexican participants was the overcoming of internalized classism and/or racism and discovering the value of their own voices.

The CGE-Mexico team has adopted David Fox’s classification of two primary types of reciprocity within international education:1) direct, or “specific reciprocity,” which involves “giving back directly to those who have served them,” and 2) indirect or “generalized reciprocity,” in which the host community “believes that someone or some group, be they from the host community or not, will benefit from what participants contribute to society someday.”1 This is what some refer to as the “pay-it-forward” form of reciprocity—it doesn’t directly benefit the community, but the community trusts that participants will take positive action in the future as a result of the experience. This sentiment is highlighted by the fact that research participants praised the programs’ emphasis on social analysis and contrasted it with programs that “seem to be more interested in moving foreigners to feel compassion and provide charity to the poor.” For example, Nahua spiritual leader Ignacio “Nacho” Torres Ramírez said: “The students get to know us in person and feel and experience closeness with an Indigenous community. They also directly experience our spirituality, our cosmovision, and our lives first hand…these encounters help fight racism and classism and create the solidarity rather than charity because people can’t walk away from these relationships just saying, “What cute Indigenous people, what a lovely culture, what pretty clothing.”

Reciprocity Panel at CGE All-Staff Meetings

Three participants from Ann’s research contributed to a panel presentation on reciprocity at CGE’s biannual staff meetings in July (see highlights section of Annual Report):

Victoria Maria de León Alvarado from the faith-based women's group Luz y Libertad, a group that has met with many of our students and participants over the course of several years.

Juliana García Quintanilla from the Independent Human Rights Commission of the State of Morelos (CIDHM). She has served as both a speaker and internship supervisor. CIDHM has been involved with CGE-Mexico since its founding.

Rosario Bello Escorcia, who grew up in a host family and is now a Spanish teacher at UNIVERSAL, the language school that hosts our students.

During the panel, Rosario shared that CGE experiences helped her learn a great deal about identity and stereotypes, particularly her stereotypes about people from the United States. She had always perceived U.S. citizens to be rich, but then students began to arrive and they spoke about their lives, many of which had been lived in poverty. Rosario also shared this story with Ann and the panel, which demonstrates Ann’s findings about internalized racism: “When I was sixteen years old, one of the students who lived with my family asked me what ethnic group or tribe I belonged to. I said, ‘No, I’m not Indigenous. I am Mestiza; my grandfather was Spanish.’ I was very angry and offended at first. But the student wouldn’t stop talking. She said, ‘But you look more Indigenous than mixed-race.’ So I began to look at myself, and eventually…I began to feel proud of who I am and not hide it. I began to accept my Indigenous heritage and learn more about the history of my people ... That conversation changed me because it started me on the path to acceptance of my own identity.”

Victoria spoke at length about how meeting with students taught her that her voice is valued. Over time, the gratitude and praise offered by the students built her confidence, and this is a significant benefit to her personhood and to her work. Juliana’s contribution to the panel was offering the advice that CGE should create more time during exchanges to further enhance the reciprocity. The panel was an excellent way for the entire organization to better understand what reciprocity is in the words of those with whom we share the exchange.

Other Sites: Reciprocity in El Sontule Community

In addition to Ann’s research, our other sites have explored more closely how reciprocity exists in their context. One example is the relationship between CGE in Nicaragua and the El Sontule community, located within the Miraflor Nature Reserve. CGE-Nicaragua has been working with the community for over ten years. Program participants stay in the homes of members of the New Dawn women’s cooperative. They are hosted as part of a rural-ecotourism project, where they learn about crops and the process of producing organic coffee.

CGE students and travelers also have the opportunity to hear the stories of these women, whose community and cooperative experienced counterrevolutionary attacks during the Sandanista Revolution. The women of the cooperative say that some of the benefits of the relationship with CGE have been: They shared their personal stories with visitors, including stories of violence and suffering and in this process they have been able to heal their wounds and overcome some of their fears. Similar to some of the comments made by our partners in Mexico, the women express that before they began hosting our groups they were shy about hosting foreigners because they felt they did not have important personal stories. By hosting CGE groups, the women have gained more confidence speaking in public and are also aware of the impact that they have on others. There is now a sense of pride and empowerment and higher levels of self- esteem. Another important result of the relationship has been the establishment of the scholarship fund to help sons and daughters of the women pursue an undergraduate degree. The funds come primarily from CGE travel seminar participants or students.

MN Campus Compact | Five Questions for: Diane Tran

2011-12-28T07:29:00.000-06:00

Originally published by Minnesota Campus Compact on Monday, December 19, 2011.

Five Questions for: Diane Tran

Posted on December 19, 2011 | Leave a comment

Diane Tran, Project Manager at Grassroots Solutions, College of St. Scholastica alumna

1) What about your college experience influenced where you are today?
In my current community and professional work, I work to advance policy and social change through advocacy and education. It was during my time at The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN that I was able to practice and develop insight into a great deal of the skills I now employ daily – understanding systems, building coalitions, and utilizing collaborative leadership skills. The Benedictine values of community, hospitality, respect, stewardship, and love of learning provided practical grounding for me as I pursued my academic studies and, I believe, were the most important part of the education I received as part of my undergraduate studies.

2) What is the most exciting thing that you do in your job?
I’m a project manager with Grassroots Solutions, a Minneapolis-based consulting firm specializing in grassroots strategy, training, organizing, and evaluation. We work with a variety of national, statewide, and local clients including nonprofits, government and associations, corporations, and candidates. My team works on both electoral and advocacy projects and I’ve been fortunate to engage on issues like promoting the clean energy economy, protecting antibiotic efficacy for human health through changing industrial farming practices, and preserving medical care for the poorest of the poor in Minnesota. I’m lucky to work with great people on behalf of important causes.

3) What book should everybody read, and why?
The Fourth Turning: An American Prophecy, by William Strauss and Neil Howe, was published in 1997, and details the researchers’ theory of American history as a series of recurring cycles. As a student of history, it is fascinating to consider their proposed understanding of people and cultural shifts as part of larger archetypes and natural systems. As a citizen concerned by the partisan divide and political gridlock that seems today’s norm, it is comforting to take the long view that the current political and economic challenges we face are neither unprecedented nor new to the human condition. As they purport, “In nature, the season that is about to come is always the season farthest removed from memory. So too in American history, past and present.”

4) Who or what is inspiring your work these days?
Minnesota has a nationally recognized civic tradition and I’m proud to be a part of contributing to that trend. We Minnesotans vote and volunteer in record numbers and we are concerned about the well-being of our communities. I have served in recent years on the boards of directors for the Citizens League, Kids ‘n Kinship, National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP-MN), the Minnesota Public Health Association, and the Minnesota Women’s Consortium. I volunteer with youth and direct service programs at my church, teach courses on active citizenship for emerging leaders, and am pleased to be a part of the civic infrastructure of our great state.

5) What are you passionate about?
I’m the founding blogger for Minnesota Rising and am engaged in work to build relationships, trust, and a shared vision for the rising Millennial generation in Minnesota. Having been a youth, student, and community organizer, I recognize that young people do not have to wait for some appointed time upon which we can assume the mantle of leadership. If our generation is able to come together now because of our common experiences and a shared admiration for and commitment to Minnesota, we have that much more opportunity to continue our state’s historic legacy of educational attainment, economic vitality, and healthy communities. I invite any and all young Minnesotans interested in joining the discussion to contribute to the “Our Minnesota: Building A State of Trust,” cascading conversations tour and to work with us to develop the collective capacity of this generation for impacting Minnesota’s future.

We’re starting a new type of blog post, asking alumni of Minnesota Campus Compact member institutions about their civic experiences and reflections. If you have people you’d like to hear from or questions you’d like to ask, please let us know — or ask someone questions yourself and send us the results to share. Thanks!

Minnesota Rising

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] February 2012

[#mnrising Dispatch] February 2012

Reportback: Communities Connections Conference

Advancing Cascading Conversations

Making Our #MNRising Mark!

Upcoming Events

News from the Network

You're Invited: Laugh in Peace Tour

You're Invited | The Non-Nonprofit: Should Nonprofits Operate More Like Businesses?

Respond to the gift

Friday Fun | Guante "Starfish"

You're Invited: League of Women Voters of St. Paul Young Professionals event

You're Invited: Connect Open House

You're Invited | Graze 4 Good: A Fundraiser to Benefit Fourth Generation

In the service of that which is right

You're Invited | Inter-Generational Policy Tour Series: Transportation Policy

You're Invited: Extreme Mind Makeover Edition‏!

You're Invited: Being the Diversity Competent Leader

Reportback: Minnesota Rising at Minneapolis Communities Connections Conference

All that you had for justice

You're Invited | Serious Issues: Improv Comedy return to HUGE Theater

Serious Issues - Improv Comedy return to HUGE Theater

Collaborate with T2P2!

An interview with leading thinkers.

Exploring ideas through improv comedy.

You're Invited: 2nd annual Warm Up in the Wild!

You're Invited | Mission Possible: Don't Let Insecurities Sabotage Your Job Search

You're Invited: Communities Connections Conference, "Building Better Communities Through Neighborhoods"

1st Annual Community Connections Conference

"Better Communities through Neighborhoods"

It is I who must begin

You're Invited: Young Professional Group Conversation

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] January 2012

[#mnrising Dispatch] January 2012

News from the Network

Cascading Conversations

Making Our #MNRising Mark!

You're Invited: A Toast to LEAD

You're Invited | LiFe LaB: Find Your Formula for Change

You are invited to attend:

LiFe LaB: Find Your Formula for Change

Tues., Feb. 21 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

The power of generosity

You're Invited: Caucus and Convention Training!

Survey Invitation: Engaging Millennials in Workplace Health and Wellness

You're Invited: Citizens League Emerging Leaders "Civic Trivia Happy Hour"

You're Invited: MINN's Chinese New Year Happy Hour!

MINN's Chinese New Year Happy Hour

Look always forward

You're Invited | Setting the Mark: For Me and Minnesota Workshop

[2011 Un/Conference] Laura Zabel Keynote: Love something, do something

love something. do something.

You're Invited: Comprehensive Community Development in the Metropolitan Context

Connecting to Markets: Neighborhoods and Housing Markets- Comprehensive Community Development in the Metropolitan Context

Minneapolis, MN

Event Details

You're Invited: What are we (or aren’t we) doing about childhood obesity?

Build it into your day

You're Invited | Sunshine and Showers: A Nonprofit Forecast for 2012

Lowry Lab Theatre350 St. Peter St.St. Paul, Minnesota 55102

You're Invited: GenYWCA Happy Hour at Uptown Cafeteria!

You're Invited: Navigating Incorporation Options for Social Enterprises

You're Invited: @MinnesotaRising Communications Confab + Blog Brainstorm!

Bend a little

Cast your vote for Grassroots Solutions' “Organizer of the Year!”

Meet Our Organizers!

Voting is now open!

You're Invited: Twin Cities Rotaract New Year Party!

You're Invited: Small-Staff New Year's Celebration!

[Minnesota Rising Dispatch] December 2011

Live. Now.

Minnesota Rising Blog 2011: Post Playback x 11

[Required Reading] CGE and Reciprocity: Recent Explorations

MN Campus Compact | Five Questions for: Diane Tran

Five Questions for: Diane Tran

Lowry Lab Theatre
350 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, Minnesota 55102