In October 2024, Simpson Housing Services received the Nonprofit Mission Award for Anti-Racism Initiative from the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.
We are humbled and grateful to do this work in community with the many organizations advocating for and working toward equity in Minnesota.
Watch the video for a brief overview of our work toward racial equity
Christina Jacobson, Director of Equity and Human Resources, accepted the award at the 2024 MCN & MCF Joint Annual Conference. Read her speech below.
It is an honor to accept this award on behalf of Simpson Housing Services. This recognition for our anti-racism efforts in housing stability is an affirmation of our core values in action.
Minnesota, despite its deep resources, struggles with extreme racial disparities in education, employment, and housing. We are grateful to all organizations working toward equity and advocacy in our community.
At Simpson, we understand that racism is a key cause of homelessness, affecting the vast majority of housing participants and shelter guests, who are disproportionately people of color due to systemic injustices. We believe that meaningful change only comes from confronting these difficult truths.
While we celebrate this achievement, we acknowledge that much work remains. Racism, in all its forms, requires ongoing effort to dismantle. We remain committed to building a just and equitable society where every individual is valued.
I want to acknowledge a few key groups: First, the shelter guests and housing participants, who have shared their stories and feedback which guides our improvements. Next, the incredible Simpson staff, whose dedication to challenging injustice has brought us here today. This award is a testament to your tireless efforts. Thanks to the volunteers, board members, partner agencies, funders, and government organizations that have supported our mission. Your collaboration has been vital to our progress. And to the award organizers, thank you for reaffirming our mission and renewing our commitment to this work. Together, we will continue this journey with compassion and integrity.