About Us
Pillsbury United Communities is a nonprofit organization working to create choice, change and connection for people from all walks of life. With multiple locations in Minneapolis' inner city neighborhoods – including four neighborhood centers and a professional live theatre – Pillsbury United Communities is positioned to address the complicated issues and concerns faced by the more than 35,000 people who walk through our doors each year.
A descendant of the Settlement House Movement, Pillsbury United Communities recognizes the complex causes and effects of social and economic inequalities and works to effect positive change by connecting individuals and building meaningful relationships. Programs offered are not about hand-outs or charity, but encourage give-and-take relationships between members of the community and Pillsbury United Communities.
The agency emphasizes people over programs – yet recognizes that programs are an important part of addressing inequalities. When the agency was founded in 1879, services offered included a day nursery for working families and mothers, a health clinic, industrial training, and sewing classes.
The agency’s 200 staff often live in the neighborhoods where they work and are passionate about helping the community and its members grow and solve the challenges they face. Staff manage a growing number of services in six common focus areas:
- Innovations in Early Childhood Development
- Innovations in Youth and Teen Development
- Innovations in Adult Education and Skill Development
- Innovations in Civic Engagement
- Innovations in Essential Resources
- Innovations in Wellness
Pillsbury United Communities builds better communities by helping individuals find the means to help themselves.