Together for Lasting Impact
Central Minnesota Community Empowerment Center provides Education Training, Housing Support, Career Advancement, Economic Empowerment, Youth Development & Business Development.
✦ Cmceo Group
Who We Are
The Central Minnesota Community Empowerment Organization (CMCEO) is a BIPOC-led and BIPOC-serving community organization dedicated to transforming lives through comprehensive support services.
Our Mission
CMCEO's mission is to support and empower Central Minnesota Refugee and Immigrant Communities through service and advocacy.
Our Vision
We envision a community where immigrant populations are fully integrated through economic stability, equity, cultural preservation, and advocacy.
What We Do
Education and Training
Building foundational skills through ESL/ELL classes, GED preparation, digital literacy training, and adult education programs that create pathways to success.
What We Do
Research
Using data and community-based research to drive effective programming, policy advocacy, and evidence-based community development.
What We Do
Housing Support and Advocacy
Ensuring stable, affordable housing through our La Cruz community program, housing search assistance, tenant rights advocacy, and emergency support.
What We Do
Advocacy and Community Empowerment
Amplifying community voices through organizing, policy advocacy, civic engagement, and leadership development that creates lasting systemic change.
What We Do
Economic Empowerment
Building financial independence through entrepreneurship support, small business development, financial literacy training, and economic advocacy.
What We Do
Youth and Workforce Development
Empowering young leaders and connecting individuals to meaningful careers through our award-winning Take Ten program, job placement services, and career training.
What We Do
Small Business Support & Economic Empowerment
Supporting entrepreneurs and building economic independence through business development, microloans, mentorship, and market access opportunities.
What Makes Us Different
Our strength lies in our integrated service model that recognizes the complex, interconnected needs of the communities we serve. Rather than addressing issues in isolation, we provide comprehensive support that includes:
Economic Empowerment
Youth Empowerment
Housing Support
Workforce Development
Education and Training
Advocacy
✦ CMCEO Group
Our Commitment
We understand that successful integration and empowerment require more than just individual services—they require a community-wide commitment to equity, understanding, and mutual support. We are dedicated to not only serving our immediate community but also advocating for systemic changes that create lasting opportunities for all Central Minnesota residents.
Through our work, we strive to ensure that every refugee and immigrant family has access to the resources, support, and advocacy they need to not just survive, but thrive in their new home. Together, we are building stronger, more inclusive communities that benefit everyone.
Board of Directors
CMCEO is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors comprised of community leaders, professionals, and advocates who are deeply committed to our mission. Our board provides strategic oversight, ensures fiscal responsibility, and guides our organization's long-term vision for community empowerment.
Our board members bring diverse expertise in areas including nonprofit management, community development, education, healthcare, business development, and immigrant services. This diverse leadership ensures that CMCEO remains responsive to community needs while maintaining the highest standards of organizational excellence.
For current board member information and bios, please contact our office.
Our Impact
Our integrated approach addresses the interconnected challenges faced by refugee and immigrant families, providing comprehensive solutions that lead to meaningful, long-term success.
Nearly 10,000 people supported annually
Since 2015, we have been providing vital community services
Thousands of individuals helped with career building and community engagement
Our Stories
Stories about CMCEO's Work!
The Central Minnesota Community Empowerment Organization (CMCEO) is committed to supporting and advocating for the needs of the community, and to turning that advocacy into tangible resources and services.
CMCEO Group
Youth Leadership & Mentorship
Adult Literacy & ESL Programs
Mental Health Awareness Workshops
Job Readiness & Resume Building
Community Health & Wellness Fairs
Digital Skills & Computer Literacy
Financial Literacy for Families
Parenting & Family Strengthening Programs
Success Stories
Voices from Our Community
"I found a stable home and received food support during my time of need, with translation services making all the difference in helping me navigate a new country - I couldn't have done it without their help!"
Nick Sanchez
"Their constant support and encouragement gave me the courage to navigate the complexities of the immigration system and start my own business."
Floyd Miles
@designer
"Thanks to their assistance in overcoming language barriers, I was able to find a job that allowed me to support my family and build a better future for us all."
Guy Hawkins
These stories represent thousands of individuals and families who have found hope, opportunity, and community through CMCEO's comprehensive services.
