We are thrilled to announce that the Congolese Community of Minnesota has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the Minnesota Foundation to expand our Youth Leadership Academy and Summer Cultural Camp programs.

This two-year grant will allow us to serve an additional 100 young people annually, add a STEM enrichment track to our after-school programming, and hire two full-time youth program coordinators. The funding also supports the creation of a new college scholarship fund for Congolese-American high school seniors.

“This grant is a testament to the incredible work our youth programs have accomplished over the past decade,” said Executive Director Patrice Mukendi. “Every young person in our community deserves the opportunity to excel academically while staying connected to their cultural roots.”

Applications for the expanded Youth Leadership Academy will open in March 2026. Stay tuned for details!

For media inquiries, contact info@congomn.org.