Uptown Building Update

YWCA Minneapolis Uptown opened in 1987, after being converted from the West High School gym. West High School opened in 1908, so 2808 Hennepin S. has long been in service to Uptown children and families. Over the years, many people found a welcoming and inclusive community there that became an important part of their lives. Given this history, we're pleased to share that the building will continue to be put to good use.

Tending the Soil, a coalition of Minnesota nonprofits and unions led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) that organize in working-class communities of color and represent 10,000 members, is purchasing 2808 Hennepin Avenue S. Formed in 2018, Tending the Soil comprises five organizations including Centro de Trabajadores Unidos en la Lucha, Inquilinxs Unidxs por Justicia (Renters for Justice), the New Justice Project, SEIU Local 26 and Unidos MN. Together they are co-creating the Rise Up Center, a workforce development hub focused on the green building and clean energy fields, in the heart of Uptown.

The Rise Up Center’s workforce development programs will move workers into apprenticeship programs and house the first-of-its-kind worker cooperative for immigrants. The latter will be a union contractor in the construction industry, owned and managed by the immigrant workers themselves. Tending the Soil’s focus on removing barriers to economic equality for low-wage workers and people of color echoes our mission to eliminate racism; empower women and girls; and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

While the decision to sell beloved buildings was not made lightly, we know it was the best course for our long-term sustainability and service to the community. YWCA Minneapolis is more than any building or single program. We're a legacy of dedicated social justice advocates who lead boldly and strive to create a better future for every person in our community regardless of their background.

Shelley Carthen Watson
President and CEO
YWCA Minneapolis