Central Minnesota Community Empowerment

Together for Lasting Impact

CMCEO provides Education Training, Housing Support, Career Advancement, Economic Empowerment, Youth Development & Business Development for refugee and immigrant communities.

Get Involved
Who We Are

A community empowerment center built on dignity

Central Minnesota Community Empowerment Center (CMCEO) helps refugee and immigrant families build stable, thriving lives through education, housing, workforce, and youth programs rooted in cultural respect.

  • Culturally grounded services, designed with the community, not just for it.
  • Whole-family support, from ESL and housing to youth leadership.
  • Measurable impact, with thousands served across Central Minnesota each year.
Learn about us
CMCEO community
10K+
People Served Annually
Our Impact

Measurable change, lasting impact

10K+
People Served Annually
500+
Students Trained
100+
Active Volunteers
8
Years of Impact
What We Do

Programs that open doors

Six pillars of support for refugee and immigrant communities across Central Minnesota.

Education and Training

Education and Training

Comprehensive educational programs including ESL classes, literacy programs, and career-focused training to empower community members.

Learn more
Housing Support

Housing Support

Assistance with finding affordable housing, rental support, home ownership programs, and housing stability services for refugees and immigrants.

Learn more
Workforce Development

Workforce Development

Job placement assistance, career counseling, skills training, and professional development programs to advance economic opportunities.

Learn more
Economic Empowerment

Economic Empowerment

Financial literacy programs, business development support, and entrepreneurship training to build economic independence.

Learn more
Youth Development

Youth Development

Educational support, mentorship programs, leadership development, and cultural integration activities for young community members.

Learn more
Community Advocacy

Community Advocacy

Advocacy and community empowerment initiatives to ensure equal rights, access to services, and representation for refugee and immigrant communities.

Learn more
Get Involved

Three ways to make a difference

Every gift, hour, and partnership helps a neighbor take their next step forward.

Donate

Fund education, housing, and youth programs for families building new lives.

Give now

Volunteer

Join more than 100 volunteers teaching, mentoring, and welcoming newcomers.

Sign up

Partner

Employers, schools, and funders: let's build stronger communities together.

Get in touch
Community Voices

Lives changed, in their words

CMCEO helped me find stable housing through La Cruz and provided job training that led to my current position. The support I received was comprehensive and culturally sensitive. They understood my background and helped me navigate systems while preserving my dignity.

Ahmed M. Ahmed M.Housing & Workforce participant

The TAKE TEN program gave my daughter confidence and leadership skills I never imagined possible. CMCEO doesn't just provide services - they build community and empower young people to become leaders in their own right.

Fatima S. Fatima S.Parent, TAKE TEN program

CMCEO's ESL classes and workforce development program changed my life. I went from working minimum wage jobs to starting my own small business. Their support didn't stop at education - they helped with business planning and connected me to resources.

Maria G. Maria G.ESL & Business program graduate

As a District 742 educator, I've seen firsthand how CMCEO's programs transform not just individual students but entire communities. Their evidence-based approach and cultural competency make them an invaluable partner in education.

Jennifer L. Jennifer L.District 742 Educator & Partner
Upcoming Event

Community Empowerment Gathering

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 Saint Cloud, MN

Join CMCEO for an evening celebrating community, culture, and the people driving lasting change in Central Minnesota.

News & Media

Stories from our work