New American Development Center

We just wrapped up a powerful three-day convening for the Healthy Regions Planning Exchange here in Minneapolis—an annual national gathering where government and nonprofit regional planners come together to share, learn, and grow. This year, New American Development Center was proud to co-host the event alongside the Native American Community Development Institute - NACDI, and the The Alliance

As I reflect on this gathering where organizations and advocates from across the country united to solve regional development challenges, I am reminded of the strength found in shared experiences and collective wisdom. This convening created space for meaningful dialogue, idea exchange, and learning around our ongoing work in economic justice, social justice, housing justice, city planning, public transit, and more.

As part of the convening, regional leaders visited Karmel Mall, where they met with Somali small business owners, enjoyed tea and sambusas, some had henna, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere of this immigrant cultural hub in the heart of South Minneapolis.

Despite the persistent systemic and cultural challenges we face, this gathering affirmed that we are not alone. Our shared commitment to building just, healthy, and inclusive communities remains not only necessary but deeply powerful.

Congratulations to our Spring Entrepreneurship graduates! The journey of building your own business has just begun.

The New American Development Center’s entrepreneurship training cohort is underway, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills. Participants learn business planning, financial management, marketing, licensing, tax compliance, and accessing capital. The program also covers customer service, digital presence, and networking to support sustainable business growth.

The New American Development Center Youth Development Cohort believes that having authentic youth participation is key to addressing the ever-changing challenges they face.

Friday night lights of another kind - Eden Prairie Local News Eden Prairie teens gather for a unique Friday night program, preparing for future challenges and embracing Somali American identity and community.

New American Development Center-NADC youth leadership and workforce training Prairie

The New American Development Center's youth development cohort program is progressing well. East African/Somali youth are gaining valuable leadership and workforce development skills through the training. Yesterday, we had Eden Prairie council member PG Narayanan as a guest speaker. As someone who immigrated to this country with little and went on to become a vice president at a Fortune 500 company, start his own IT company, and lead Minnesota's IT department, his story resonated deeply with the youth. It was an incredible opportunity for them to learn from someone with a similar background who achieved significant success.

Last night's Eden Prairie Iftar event was a wonderful experience that not only provided a chance to break fast together but also offered valuable learning opportunities. Discussions about Ramadan, cultural traditions, and other topics added depth and enrichment to the event, enhancing community participation. The diverse group of attendees, representing various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, contributed to the sense of unity and inclusivity, making the evening truly memorable. Thank you Mayor Ron Case, Mayor of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, State Representative Hodan Hassan, State State Representative Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn, council members Mark Freiberg and Lisa Toomey. Eden Prairie Police department, Eden Prairie Human Rights and Diversity Commission, New American Development Center, Mohamed Duale, Jonathan Stanley, and Noon Rotary Club

Starting a new cohort of youth leadership in about a month.