About Us
Mission
Community Design Center of Minnesota is a Saint Paul-based organization whose mission is to build vibrant and healthy communities through food, conservation and youth development.
Vision
Our Vision is to be a leader and innovator in using food, conservation and youth development programs so that youth and community members: Have opportunity for learning, leadership, service and career connections; engage with their community and environment; and learn about and access healthy food.
Values
Collaboration: Together we can achieve more than if we act alone.
Inclusivity: Diversity and inclusivity strengthen every aspect of our organization.
Stewardship: Communities will be healthy when we inspire residents to understand, respect and conserve the natural environment.
Opportunity: Youth and community members will thrive when they have opportunities to learn, lead and contribute.
Discovery: Opportunities for discovery will help youth and communities engage and grow.
Programs
Our programs include:
Garden Program
- Garden Corps youth internship program and gardening education
Cooking /Nutrition Program
- Nutrition Corps youth internship and cooking/nutrition education
Conservation Program
- Conservation Corps youth internship program and environmental education
Our garden, cooking/nutrition, and conservation programs help children and youth:
- Develop work, entrepreneurship, gardening, cooking, environmental restoration and public speaking skills
- Improve their health through cooking, gardening, nutrition, and eating well
- Become environmental leaders and stewards in their community
- Make connections to career opportunities and professionals in food and ecology
History
The Community Design Center of Minnesota was incorporated in 1969. Over the years, we have provided a range of community development services in Minneapolis, St. Paul and southern Minnesota, including architecture, urban planning, economic development and organizational development—with a common thread of empowerment, engagement and innovation. We have operated our food and environmental programs on the East Side of St. Paul since 1996, engaging thousands of youth in education, training, and work projects that provide service to the community, develop young leaders and improve health and the environment.