Minnesota
Established in 1985, CDF-Minnesota is dedicated to addressing the specific needs of Minnesota’s children, youth, and families. Our advocacy efforts at the local and state levels encompass extensive research, community engagement, and youth development programs, paving the way for a better future for Minnesota's children and youth.
Policy Priorities in Minnesota
Learn more about Minnesota’s policy priorities
Learn MoreUpdates in Minnesota
CDF Beat the Odds Program is Sunsetting
Since 1990, the Beat the Odds program has transformed young lives and emboldened youth on their path into adulthood. We are grateful to all who have supported this program over the years and honored to have played a part in amplifying the strength and talent of our Beat the Odds honorees. While we are retiring the CDF Beat the Odds program and brand, a new program is coming that will provide more robust support for young people and we look forward to your continued support.
Read MoreShare Your Story
Your story matters. Have you or your community been impacted by our programs or advocacy work? We want to hear from you.
Share Your StoryPrograms in Minnesota
Freedom Schools
At CDF Freedom Schools®, we’re not just educating; we’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. By empowering the youngest generation, we’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound.
CDF Freedom SchoolsMovement Building
Through collaborative action and community-centered initiatives, we seek to reduce child poverty, achieve education equity, improve child well-being, and more. Together, we’re shaping a world where every young person’s journey is marked by dignity, hope, and joy.
Building a Movement for YouthNews from Minnesota
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Child Poverty
Economic Justice Outreach News
Since our establishment in 1985, Children’s Defense Fund-Minnesota (CDF-MN) has been at the forefront of addressing the unique needs of Minnesota’s children, youth, and families envisioning a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.…
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Charity
Celebration of Joy
CDF-MN’s first annual Fundraising Social Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Fallon 500 N. 3rd Street in Minneapolis…
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Policy Agenda
2024 Legislative and Administrative Advocacy Agenda
In 2023, the state of Minnesota made unprecedented investments in children and their families—with particular attention to addressing longstanding opportunity gaps for children growing up in Black, Indigenous and communities of color. These investments reflected a shared commitment to making Minnesota the best state in the country to be a child and raise a family—regardless of race, income, or geography.…
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Child Poverty
Flexible Cash: The Tax Credit Opportunity
Flexible cash is what families tell us they need to be able to create a nurturing, stable platform from which they and their children can successfully launch. The additional, flexible resources that come from tax credits would help families achieve economic stability and help children to have what they need to thrive.…
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Stay Connected with Minnesota
Contact Us
Children’s Defense Fund – Minnesota
555 Park Street
Suite 410
St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: 651-227-6121
Fax: 651-227-2553