Updated September 2026
Minnesota nonprofits support Black communities in many ways, from housing and early education to the arts, economic opportunity and racial justice. This list began in June 2020, after Nach (@DarkCloudsMN) shared organizations to know following George Floyd’s murder. With Nach’s permission, I shared the list here so readers could explore each group’s work and find ways to support it.
The 17 organizations below include groups based in Minneapolis and St. Paul as well as groups working across Minnesota. Follow each organization’s website for its current programs and ways to give.
Minnesota Nonprofits Supporting Black Communities
Black Visions
Black Visions organizes Black Minnesotans to lead campaigns on issues affecting their communities. Its work centers on Black liberation and community power.
Center for Economic Inclusion
Based in St. Paul, the Center for Economic Inclusion works to close racial gaps in employment, income and wealth. Its work includes research, employer tools and support for Black and Latina-owned businesses.
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Where Minnesotans can donate clothing and household goods
EdAllies
EdAllies advocates for education policies that put underserved Minnesota students first. The Minneapolis-based organization works with families, schools and community members to expand access to a strong education.
Hallie Q. Brown Community Center
Rooted in St. Paul’s Rondo neighborhood, Hallie Q. Brown Community Center connects residents with services and opportunities for personal growth and community leadership. Its history is closely tied to Rondo’s history.
Isuroon
Isuroon is a Somali women-led organization supporting Somali women, girls and families in Minnesota. Its work includes advocacy, youth programs, refugee support and a halal food shelf.
Model Cities
Model Cities serves St. Paul communities with an emphasis on the economic stability of Black Minnesotans. Its programs include shelter and supportive housing, financial education and business support.
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Minnesota nonprofits where kids can volunteer
Minneapolis NAACP
The Minneapolis NAACP works to eliminate racial discrimination and advance equal rights. Its local advocacy addresses issues affecting Black residents in Minneapolis and across Minnesota.
Nexus Community Partners
Nexus Community Partners builds community wealth by supporting leaders, shared ownership and the distribution of resources. Its work includes efforts to strengthen Black cooperatives and expand economic opportunity.
Northside Achievement Zone
Northside Achievement Zone, or NAZ, works with families, schools and community partners in North Minneapolis. Its support spans early childhood education, academic success, housing, employment and family stability.
Penumbra
Founded as a theater company, Penumbra now brings together Black art, youth programs and racial healing. The organization remains rooted in St. Paul’s Rondo neighborhood.
TruArtSpeaks
St. Paul-based TruArtSpeaks uses spoken word, hip-hop and other art forms to create opportunities for young people and emerging artists. Its programs connect creative expression with learning, leadership and community.
Ujamaa Place
Ujamaa Place supports young African American men through culturally responsive programs. Based in St. Paul, the organization helps participants pursue stable housing, education, employment, wellness and stronger family connections.
Urban League Twin Cities
Urban League Twin Cities connects people with opportunities for economic advancement. Its programs include employment training and other support designed to strengthen communities across the Twin Cities.
Voices for Racial Justice
Voices for Racial Justice builds community power through organizing, leadership development and policy work in Minnesota. Its current priorities include education equity, community participation in policymaking and civic engagement.
Walker|West Music Academy
Located in St. Paul’s Rondo neighborhood, Walker|West Music Academy offers music education rooted in the African American cultural experience. Students of different ages and backgrounds can learn, perform and grow through music.
Way to Grow
Way to Grow partners with families in Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs from pregnancy through their children’s early school years. Its free, year-round support includes education, health and parenting resources delivered through home visits.
Youthprise
Youthprise works with Minnesota’s Indigenous, low-income and racially diverse young people. Its programs address education, career readiness, health and leadership, with youth taking part in decisions that shape the work.
While you’re here, take a moment to read how I adapted after losing both parents before I was 25 years old and my journey with epilepsy.
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