Bold community leadership
Happy October! As the seasons change, we’re excited to honor bold examples of community leadership and share updates in our work.
Shout out to our alumni 🏅
Congratulations to Education Equity Parent Fellowship alumni Sai Thao, who is a recipient of the 2025 Facing Race Award! Sai participated in the fellowship in 2020, and is being honored for her leadership to “emphasize education equity and justice, ensuring students and families are at the center of all decision-making.”
Sai shared that her leadership and advocacy were changed by her experience in the fellowship: “Today, I am more aware of my choices. I'm finding ways to be informed and staying informed to make the necessary choices I need to make for my children and I along with my community, for all of us to thrive and achieve.” Join us in congratulating Sai!
Centering Community in Policy Making 🫶🏾
Our Policy & Democracy Organizer, Nicole Donoso, recently presented at the Voices for Healthy Kids Summit, sharing about our Centering Community in Policymaking Framework. As she shared at the Summit, we created the framework because “we need to change how policy is made, who’s at the table, and whose voices count.”
Election season is here 🗳️
Many areas of Minnesota, including Minneapolis and St. Paul, are holding local elections this year. Early voting started in September, and will continue until Election Day on Tuesday, November 4.
From protections for renters to accessible public transportation, the candidates we elect locally will make decisions that impact us every day. Learn who's running to represent you, and spread the word with your family, friends, and neighbors.
Celebrating Our Partners 🎊
We loved celebrating with our partners, Ayada Leads, at their 10th Anniversary Gala last month! From leadership trainings like Get on Board to their civic engagement programs, we’re deeply grateful to be in movement with organizations like Ayada Leads.
Reliving Summer Memories 📸
We’ve been reminiscing about our Summer Block Party with photos from ShineON Photo Booth! Check out photos from the party, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop about upcoming events and gatherings.
And that’s a wrap! Wishing you a fall filled with warmth, connection, and community.
In care and solidarity,
VRJ