Dear Friends and Supporters,
Thank you for another year of continued support! For 55 years our mission has grown with the people it seeks to serve, evolving to fit changing needs. Making it to this milestone anniversary is something we can all share in.
With gratitude for all that we’ve already accomplished together, I’m writing this letter as you prepare to make year-end gifts. End of year giving is an integral part of the health of people-serving organizations like ours. Consider a gift of any size to keep our mission moving forward.
As you know, Model Cities started with providing health and wellness care for our neighbors. For over five decades we’ve added many services which directly address disparities in housing, increase entrepreneurship, promote financial literacy, support youth and families, and so much more. In 2021 we served over 2,400 individuals, the majority of whom are BIPOC, and many who are navigating poverty. In 2022 we continued building up programs that address systemic harms from the past, offering solutions in the present, and helping underserved groups build the futures they see for themselves.
This year we:
- Secured an anchor commercial tenant for our BROWNstone building. West Indies Soul Food, a Caribbean-based restaurant in the Twin Cities had its grand opening on November 17, 2022.
- Launched the Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) program which will provide supplemental services and resources for families experiencing homelessness.
- Provided 1:1 pre-purchase counseling to 111 households, homebuyer education classes to 130 households and assisted 12 households with becoming new homeowners.
- In September, we celebrated 55 years together at Como Pavilion with so many familiar faces, gathering to reflect on the journey of Model Cities through the years.
The entire year you’ve shown up! Because of everything we’ve done together, we’re feeling energized and ready for 2023! Will you help us close out this incredible year with an annual or monthly gift?
55 years is a lifetime of service and we’re ready for 55 more! Thank you for celebrating with us.
Sincerely,
Kizzy L. Downie
Chief Executive Officer
