A vibrant metropolitan area dotted with urban parks and trails, a thriving arts scene, multiple professional sports teams, and home to many Fortune 500 companies — these are only some of the reasons the Twin Cities metro area was ranked the sixth best place to live by U.S. News and World Report in 2019.
As the Twin Cities have grown, some have experienced economic prosperity, while many others have been left behind, particularly communities of color. Nearly 40% of residents live within the federal poverty threshold and, in some neighborhoods, those living below the poverty line reaches 50%.
Launched with more than 50 local philanthropic investors, GreenLight Twin Cities reflects the region’s spirit of embracing innovation and a strong philanthropic history. Leveraging that spirit and working together, GreenLight and local leaders strive to break down barriers to prosperity, making significant, measurable progress toward a brighter and more equitable future.
of students in Minneapolis public schools are not achieving 3rd grade reading standards
of St Paul residents live below the poverty level
of Black students in Minnesota are proficient in math on statewide tests
We search from coast to coast to bring promising, ground-breaking answers to some of the Twin Cities most persistent poverty-related challenges. Organizations in our portfolio represent the best in their fields – in innovation, measurable results and ability to scale.
“GreenLight’s leadership and the demonstrated impact the organization has had in other cities gives us great confidence that GreenLight’s presence in the Twin Cities is just what we need to tackle the persistent economic mobility issues we face with top notch, sustainable solutions.”
– Brian Lipschultz, Co-CEO and Trustee, the Otto Bremer Trust
“The organization has an incredible track record of demonstrated results in other cities. We look forward to working with GreenLight to address our community’s highest needs, and seeing the impact that work will have in Minneapolis and St. Paul.”
– Tim Welsh, Vice Chairman, Consumer and Business Banking, US Bank
“Ann and I are energized about the ability to take innovative programs that work from across the country and make them available here, addressing critical gaps with measurable results.”
– Chris Hilger, CEO, Securian Financial
“We are thrilled to be part of this impressive coalition of founding funders, bringing this innovative model to our region. GreenLight will become an important pillar in our community, bringing together leaders and resources to bring smart, effective solutions to where they are needed.”
– Chuck Mooty, Chairman, Jostens
Learn how you can be part of the GreenLight Twin Cities community.
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